Hidden Tap, Botley (Botley Brewery)

A brewery tap attached to a micro-brewery.

The premises started off as a micro brewery and in 2017 the small room next door became available and this has been incorporated as 'The Hidden Tap' tap room. It really is hidden - behind the right hand side of Botley Mills. The Hidden Tap is utilitarian room, plainly decorated but with a variety of floor tiles courtesy of its former days as part of a tile showroom. Behind the bar the small stillage is a set of industrial racking with three casks of Botley Brewery's own beer and two ciders from Meon Valley. Bottled beers, plus home-made pickles & chutneys are also on sale. About 10 bar stools allow customers to drink at the bar or from the sturdy shelves around the perimeter of the room.

Outside are two or three picnic benches with sun canopies and when sunny additional tables are put on the wall that overlooks the River Hamble. This is a good spot to watch wildlife and on occasions kingfishers can be seen darting along the river. Kayakers often paddle up the river and if they want a drink they can pull a rope to ring a bell and the order is then lowered in a wooden box (see photo)!

Botley Brewery has four core beers (HPA, Pommy Blonde, English IPA and Wyvern Red) and a range of seasonal and special brews.

Sausage rolls, burgers and pies are usually available Thursday & Friday evenings, and all day Saturday & Sunday up to 8pm or until they run out.

The bar is also open 12-8pm on Bank Holidays (with food) and often with live music. During winter months there may be restricted opening hours/days.