About The Nelson Arms

Summary of Beer Scores

	Total
	-
	-
	1
	-
	-

Website.

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

This 14th-century pub in central Farnham is found at 50-52 Castle Street and retains many original dark beams and exposed brickwork with a log fire in between the two main seating areas. It originally comprised three 14th century farm cottages of Castle Farm. This was part of the Bishop of Winchester's estate and residence at nearby Farnham Castle at the top of the street. The beamed framework and low ceilings of these former cottages can be seen in the rear section of the pub. The pub’s forward supporting beams and uprights are believed to have been recycled from a Tudor warship. The pub retains its tiled flooring in the part was that was a “Jug & Bottle” area that was for off-sales like an off-licence. 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 who worked in Castle Street duplicating the Bishop and Law Courts of Winchester’s legal documents. Subdued lighting in the evenings is complemented by candles on the tables giving it a rustic charm from a bygone age. The furniture is old fashioned but comfortable and there are several nooks to nestle into. It has a small enclosed courtyard with heaters. The pub now gets its name from Admiral Horatio Nelson, in marking his visits to the town to see his paramour, Lady Hamilton, who lived on Firgrove Hill. It is rumoured they last met in Farnham in the grounds of Farnham Castle and that in this run-up, they made many visits to the pub. The pub’s display of a hand carved coat of arms is said to predate the Battle of Trafalgar. If you are into spirits, there have been sightings of a ghost in the Civil War period dress beside the larger fireplace of the Nelson Arms. Very food orientated is the pub 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, and roughly 3 to 4 miles to the north-east of Farnham

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

Map location

Postcode: GU9 7JQ