Pub closed as the Augustus John 1st January 2019 for a major refurbishment. It reopened under its original name the Railway Hotel in autumn 2020. The following description dates from Augustus John days. The pub reopened a week before lockdown 2 so we haven't yet had a chance to resurvey it.
The Railway Hotel (by then called the Load of Hay) was renamed Augustus John after closure of the railway line in 1964. The eponymous artist, who died in Fordingbridge in 1961, was a customer; prints of his work adorn the walls. The pub has a bar and a dining area, and the varied menu features locally-sourced produce, and includes vegetarian options, a children's menu and home-made desserts. Four rooms are available for accommodation but wheelchair access is to the pub only. Nearby are Rockbourne Roman Villa, the Avon Valley footpath, and good fishing.
Historic Interest
Built around 1860 and originally called the Railway Hotel it was renamed the 'Load of Hay' after the railway line closed in 1964. In 1996 the name changed again, to the 'Augustus John', after the famous artist (1878-1961) who lived nearby and drank in the pub. The pub reverted to its original name in 2020.
This Pub serves 2 changing beers (Beer range yet to be surveyed) and 0 regular beers.
Railway Hotel, Ashford
Source: National