The Bounty
Cock Marsh Bourne End Berkshire SL8 5RG
An air of happy anarchy prevails in this quirky pub on the Thames at Bourne End, not least because the only access is on foot or by boat. A sign over the door declares 'Welcome to the People's Republic of Cockmarsh', while a chalkboard adds: 'Muddy boots, dirty hounds and children welcome'. And you're likely to find large numbers of all three inside the barn-like pub, which has a festival vibe on summer weekends, decked out with more flags, slogans and colourful memorabilia than a 60s student digs. Marlow's Rebellion beer is (appropriately) on tap, along with a raft of other real ales, and there's a menu of old-fashioned pub grub for walkers, boaties and the merely peckish. Outside there's a children's play area with plastic tree slide, plus dozens of tables where you can sink a pint or a coffee and watch the Thames float past. To join the fun, you can moor your craft alongside, stroll along the Thames Path (south bank) from Cookham or Marlow, or park your car in Bourne End and nip over the footbridge a couple of hundred metres downriver. For those in need (elderly or with babies), the pub even has its own motorboat, and time permitting, they'll ferry you across from Bourne End in return for a donation to the pub charity.
