Plan Your Trip on the Offenham Ferry From The Bridge Inn
After more than thirty years without a ferry, we have some very big news. The Offenham Ferry is running again on the River Avon, connecting The Bridge Inn, The Valley Country Park and Evesham town by water.
We have waited a long time for this. It means a great deal to us, to the village of Offenham and to everyone who remembers the crossing that once ran right outside our door. Here’s everything you need to know about the return of the ferry, including the routes, prices and how to book your crossing.
A Piece of Offenham History, Brought Back to Life
For generations, the ferry was as much a part of life along this stretch of the River Avon as the pub itself. It was more than a way of getting across the water. It was a tradition that connected The Bridge Inn, the village of Offenham and the river that runs past our door.
When the ferry stopped running, something was lost. That’s why we are so incredibly proud to say this part of the pub and village’s history has finally been reinstated.
The Original Chain Ferry
The ferry that once ran here was a simple chain ferry with just one job: taking people straight across the river and back again. There were no frills, just a direct crossing that locals relied on for decades.
A Thirty-Year Wait
That ferry stopped running over thirty years ago, and this stretch of the Avon has been without one ever since. Bringing it back has taken time, patience and a lot of support from people who believed it was worth doing. We think it was, and we hope you will agree once you step aboard.
What’s New About the Offenham Ferry?
The old ferry went straight across and back. Our new ferry can still do that, but it can do quite a bit more too. There are now three ways to enjoy the river, with pick-up points at Evesham Lock, The Bridge Inn and The Valley Country Park.
Straight Across the River
Fancy a short hop with the dog? Cross directly to the other side of the river, where you’ll find some lovely dog walking paths waiting to be explored.
To The Valley Country Park
Travel across to The Valley Country Park for an easy day out surrounded by nature. It’s a brilliant option for a family day out on the water.
Into Evesham Town
Take a boat ride into Evesham instead of driving and enjoy a completely different way to explore the area.
Offenham Ferry Routes, Prices and Times
We have kept things simple, so here’s a quick guide to everything you need before you travel:
- A straight crossing over the river costs £2
- Travel to The Valley Country Park costs £5
- Crossing into Evesham town costs £5
- Under 14s travel at half price and must be accompanied by an adult
- Dogs travel free of charge, always
- The ferry runs daily between midday and 6 pm
- There is a maximum of 10 passengers per crossing
Safety Comes First
All children under 14 must wear a life jacket, which we provide. As with any river crossing, we are dependent on conditions. If the river is running too high or visibility is too poor, we won’t be able to run the ferry safely, and we will always make that call with everyone’s safety in mind first.
A Seasonal Service
The ferry operates seasonally and will not run through the winter months. This first season is very much a test run for us. We are learning as we go, working out what our guests love, what needs tweaking and how best to run the ferry for years to come. We would love for you to be part of that journey with us.
How to Book Your River Avon Crossing
Bookings for the ferry are handled differently from the rest of the pub, so please take note of the details below:
- Call our dedicated ferry booking line on 07345 505050
- This number is separate from our regular pub line, so please don’t call the pub directly to book
- We are unable to take ferry bookings through Facebook, email or any other channel, so phone bookings only
You can find all the details in one place on our Offenham Ferry page.
A Massive Thank You
Projects like this don’t happen because of one person or one pub. Bringing back the ferry has been a genuine team effort, and we want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make it possible:
- Wychavon
- The Valley Country Park
- Avon Navigation Trust
- Offenham Parish Council
And to everyone else, named or not, who gave their time, expertise or support along the way. This project would not have happened without you, and we are genuinely grateful. The project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Book the Offenham Ferry and Make a Day of It at Our Riverside Pub Near Evesham
After thirty years, the river has its ferry back, and we could not be prouder to be part of bringing it home. Pop across for a riverside dog walk, spend the day at The Valley Country Park or arrive in Evesham by boat instead of by car. Then make a day of it with a bite to eat or a Sunday roast with us at The Bridge Inn.
Call 07345 505050 to book your crossing, and book a table to round off your trip. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!
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