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The Nelson Arms (Free House)

Beer (sort)Average Score (sort)No. Samples (sort)
Otter - BitterExcellent1
Hogs Back - Tongham TEA (previously T.E.A.)Not Tried0

Visits Details

14 Feb 2026 (Hogan Sampling)
5th visit of Farnham and its environs: Buzzing with mostly diners but some drinkers as well for our early evening visit to this truly historic relic of a pub. Prompt, friendly service at the bar. Very roomy compared to another Nelson Arms I know well in Tonbridge but this one emanates from comprising three old cottages knocked into one. Whilst only offering two real ales here and interesting ones at that, the one I tried was in great nick and so could not fault it. Only sorry I did not sample one of their homemade pies alongside and where this is often the custom in the Tonbridge Nelson Arms I visit. Will hopefully return to this one to more closely admire its original and recycled features such as beams and tiled flooring as well as tackling their homemade pie of the day.
BeerABVScoreNotes
Otter - Bitter3.60ExcellentPresented with very good head and lacing and lasting throughout on this golden-brown bitter from a family-run, independent brewery established in 1990 and located in the Blackdown Hills, Devon, about 22 miles to the north-east of Exeter. A mildly malty bitterness rising from its toffee and biscuit notes. A hoppy but slightly malt-infused bitterness pervading aided by its Maris Otter barley, much of which is grown on Dartmoor. The merest hint of fruitiness from its own special, proprietary yeast joining in. A hoppy bitterness, emanating from its English hop varieties sourced from regions such as Kent and Herefordshire, sliding out. Very moreish and in very good nick.
Hogs Back - Tongham TEA (previously T.E.A.)4.20Not Tried

About The Nelson Arms

The pub sign. The Nelson Arms, Farnham, Surrey

Summary of Beer Scores

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Excellent1
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Website.

The pub is found in Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7JQ.

This 14th century pub at 50-52 Castle Street retains many original beams and exposed brickwork with a log fire in between the two main seating areas. It originally comprised three 14th century Castle Farm cottages and part of the Bishop of Winchester's estate at nearby Farnham Castle. The beamed framework and low ceilings can be seen in the rear section of the pub. The forward supporting beams and uprights are believed to have been recycled from a Tudor warship. The pub retains its tiled flooring in the part that was a “Jug & Bottle” area for off-sales. The pub’s cellar connects to a sealed tunnel said to run to the Castle. By 1604 the north part of the building became a pub, 'Hand and Pen,' and so named for the scriveners in Castle Street duplicating the Bishop and Law Courts of Winchester’s legal documents. Subdued lighting is complemented by candles on the tables, affording it a bygone age appeal. Old-fashioned furniture is comfortable. Several nooks to nestle into and a small courtyard with heaters. The current name is from Admiral Horatio Nelson, in marking his visits to see his paramour, Lady Hamilton, who lived on Firgrove Hill. It is rumoured they last met when in Farnham in the grounds of Farnham Castle and that in this run-up, they made visits to the pub. A display of a hand carved coat of arms is said to predate the Battle of Trafalgar. There have been sightings of a ghost in the Civil War period dress beside the larger fireplace. Very food orientated with homemade pies advertised on a visit in February 2026 but all importantly there were two cask ales on: Hogs Back Tea from Tongham, Surrey, 3 to 4 miles to the north-east of Farnham, and Otter Bitter from a family-run, independent brewery established 1990 and located in the Blackdown Hills, Devon, about 22 miles to the north-east of Exeter. The guest beer pumps typically feature a traditional amber bitter or a golden ale in summer months.

We have visited this pub once, seen 2 different beers and tried 1 of them.

Postcode: GU9 7JQ