The story of our pub begins long before Richmond became the popular destination we know today. Historical records show that the pub was originally known as The Six Bells, with the site welcoming visitors as early as the late 17th and early 18th centuries. In fact, local historians have traced the pub’s origins back to 1682, while records confirm it was operating under the name Six Bells before 1725.

As Richmond grew into a popular stop for travellers journeying between London and the surrounding countryside, the pub became a well-known coaching inn, serving stagecoach passengers passing through the town. In the 1780s, it adopted the name The Old Ship, a nod to Richmond’s longstanding connection with the River Thames and the trading vessels that once travelled its waters.

The building you see today dates from the 18th century and remains one of Richmond’s most historic pubs. Since becoming part of the Young’s family in the 1860s, our pub has continued to welcome generations of locals, visitors, rugby supporters, and riverside explorers through its doors.