The Bottle Inn

The Bottle Inn is a thatched pub in Marshwood featuring original elements from the 16th century, including thick stone walls and traditional windows. The building received comprehensive renovation in 2023 that included new thatching, window replacements, and the addition of solar panels.

The establishment began in 1585 as an ale house positioned near a church where residents paid their tithes to religious authorities. It gained its name in the late 18th century by becoming the first inn in the region to serve beer in bottles.

The pub hosts the World Nettle Eating Championships, a quirky annual event where spectators gather to watch competitors consume long stinging nettle stalks. This tradition has made the location a focal point for visitors seeking unusual local customs and community gatherings.

The building holds Grade II listed status, maintaining its historical character while meeting contemporary standards. Visitors should expect original structures with potentially tight spaces and low ceilings that add to the character of this centuries-old establishment.

The pub earned its distinctive name from a late 18th-century innovation when it became the first inn in the region to sell beer in bottles rather than only from the tap. This entrepreneurial step was so notable that it reshaped the establishment's identity completely.

Location: Marshwood

Address: Marshwood, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 5QJ

GPS coordinates: 50.79393,-2.88377

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00