The Beer Garden
Canal Side Garden in Downholland
Relax with food, drinks and countryside views in the beer garden at The Ship Inn, set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal near Ormskirk.
Outdoor Drinks, Food and Relaxed Days by the Water
The beer garden at The Ship Inn is one of the things that makes the venue special.
Set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal in Downholland, near Ormskirk, it offers a relaxed outdoor space for food, drinks, family visits, dog friendly stops, summer afternoons and special occasions by the water.
Whether you are joining us after a canal walk, meeting friends for drinks, booking Sunday lunch or planning a private celebration, the beer garden brings together countryside views, warm hospitality and a setting that feels different from a normal pub garden.
The Ship Inn is not just a pub with outdoor seating. The beer garden sits in a canal-side setting with space to eat, drink, gather and enjoy the surroundings.
It gives guests somewhere to relax in the warmer months, enjoy a drink by the water, bring the family, stop after a walk or use the venue as part of a celebration.Whether you arrive by narrowboat or on foot, our lawn offers plenty of space to unwind. Fully dog friendly and family focused, we keep the atmosphere relaxed and the drinks cold all summer long.
Children’s Outdoor Play Area
Our outdoor space includes a children’s play area, making The Ship Inn a great choice for families visiting for food, drinks, Sunday lunch or a relaxed afternoon by the canal.
Parents can enjoy the beer garden and canal-side setting while younger guests have space to play nearby.
KIDS PLAY AREA
Canal Side Setting
Enjoy food and drinks beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, with a relaxed countryside feel and waterside character
Outdoor Seating
A comfortable outdoor space for lunch, drinks, Sunday afternoons and sunny evenings.
Family Friendly
A welcoming place for families to enjoy food, drinks and time together.
Dog Friendly
Ideal for dog walkers and guests stopping off after a canal walk.
Easy to Visit
Located in Downholland near Ormskirk, with access for locals, visitors, walkers and canal users.
Great for Events
A strong setting for summer gatherings, private celebrations, outdoor drinks and wedding reception photos.
Food and Drinks in the Beer Garden
Good outdoor spaces become much more powerful when connected to food and drink.
The beer garden is ideal for relaxed dining, casual drinks and summer visits. Guests can enjoy pub favourites, Sunday roasts, small plates, drinks, wines, beers, cocktails and soft drinks in a setting that feels open, relaxed and welcoming.
Whether you are planning a quiet afternoon drink, a family meal or a weekend catch up with friends, the beer garden gives you a proper outdoor pub experience by the canal.
Dog Friendly, Family Friendly and Made for Relaxed Visits
The Ship Inn is a welcoming place for relaxed visits with family, friends and four legged companions.
The beer garden is ideal for guests stopping after a walk, families meeting for food, or anyone wanting a more casual outdoor setting where they can enjoy the venue at their own pace.
A Perfect Stop Along the Canal
Set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, The Ship Inn is a natural stop for walkers, cyclists, boaters and visitors exploring the local area.
Whether you are passing through, enjoying a countryside walk, cycling the towpath or spending the day by the water, the beer garden offers a relaxed place to stop, refuel and enjoy the setting.
Good For
Canal walks
Cycling stops
Boaters and canal visitors
Dog walks
Weekend visits
Lunch after a walk
Summer drinks by the water
Outdoor Space for Celebrations and Private Events
The beer garden also adds something special to weddings, parties and private events at The Ship Inn.
For the right occasion and time of year, it can provide a relaxed outdoor space for arrival drinks, photographs, family gatherings, summer celebrations and informal moments by the canal.
It works especially well for guests who want a venue that feels more relaxed and personal than a standard function room.
Perfect For
Wedding reception drinks
Birthday celebrations
Christenings
Baby showers
Family gatherings
Corporate summer drinks
Outdoor photos
Celebration of life gatherings
Summer parties
Summer Days, Live Music and Seasonal Events
In the warmer months, the beer garden becomes one of the best parts of The Ship Inn experience.
From sunny drinks and weekend food to live music, seasonal events and relaxed afternoons by the canal, it gives guests another reason to visit and stay longer.
Keep an eye on our What’s On page and social media for upcoming beer garden events, live music, special offers and seasonal dates.
Beer Garden FAQs
Is the beer garden dog friendly?
Yes, The Ship Inn is dog friendly. The beer garden is ideal for guests visiting with dogs, especially after a walk along the canal.
Can families use the beer garden?
Yes, families are welcome. The beer garden offers a relaxed outdoor space for food, drinks and family visits.
Can we eat outside?
Food can be enjoyed outside when the beer garden is open and weather allows. Please check with the team on the day or when booking.
Do we need to book a table outside?
Booking is recommended during busy periods, especially weekends, sunny days and special events.
Is the beer garden available for private events?
The beer garden may be available as part of private events depending on the date, weather, guest numbers and venue arrangements. Please ask the team when enquiring.
Are there canal moorings nearby?
The venue is set beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Please contact the team for the latest information about canal access and moorings.
Do you host live music outside?
Outdoor entertainment may be available for selected events. Please check the What’s On page or follow The Ship Inn on social media for updates.
Plan Your Visit to The Ship Inn
Whether you are joining us for drinks in the sun, food with family, a stop after a canal walk or a private celebration by the water, the beer garden at The Ship Inn is ready to welcome you.
What Our Guests Say
“The food is great, the portions are big and the view is stunning. You can drink outside or eat in.”
“Lovely canalside pub, ideal for refreshing cold beers in the beer garden on a nice day.”
“Gorgeous beer garden by the canal. You can enjoy the long boats sailing past and the ducks when the weather is good.”
“On a sunny day it was so nice to sit outside by the canal. Very nice food, reasonable prices and good portions.”
“High quality food and drink, sitting outside by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, watching the wildlife.”
The Ship Inn
Canal side dining, weddings and celebrations in West Lancashire.
EXPLORE
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