A part of Ham Hill since the 1800’s
The Prince of Wales has been part of life on Ham Hill since the 1800s originally built to provide refreshment for the hundreds of men working in the small quarries and mason yards scattered across the hill.
Uniquely, the pub sits within the ramparts of an Iron Age hillfort, making it the only pub in the country with this remarkable distinction. Even the building itself tells a local story, constructed from Ham Stone quarried from the very hill on which it stands.
The pub takes its name from the Prince of Wales, a title traditionally held by future monarchs, reflecting its position on land belonging to the Duchy of Cornwall.
Photo credit – Stoke sub Hamdon History Group
A much-loved resting place for walkers, families and visitors
Over the years, The Prince of Wales has remained a much-loved resting place for walkers, families and visitors exploring Ham Hill Country Park. Inside, it offers the warmth of a traditional country pub, with log fires in winter, a large beer garden in summer, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere all year round.
The kitchen serves comforting pub classics, local ales, and the pub regularly hosts events including live music, themed nights, events and gatherings, making it a natural gathering place for both locals and visitors.
In August 2025, The Prince of Wales entered a new chapter when it was taken on by local owners, the Parsons and Holms, continuing its long tradition of family stewardship while honouring its deep roots in Somerset life.
Our Story
Growing up locally, Ham Hill has always been part of our everyday life. We’ve walked it, worked around it, and watched it change with the seasons. When the opportunity came up to care for a pub so deeply rooted in the hill and its community, it felt like something we couldn’t walk away from.
We didn’t just see a building, we saw a place full of stories, memories, muddy boots, family lunches, first dates, long walks, and late sunsets. A pub that already meant something to so many people.
Our hope is simple. We want The Prince of Wales to remain a proper country pub, warm, welcoming, honest and relaxed. A place where locals feel at home, visitors feel looked after, and everyone feels comfortable walking through the door just as they are.
As a family, what matters most to us is people. Community, kindness, consistency and care. We believe in good food made simply, local suppliers, friendly faces behind the bar, and a pub that feels like it belongs to its landscape and its people.
The Parsons and Holms Families 2026
Accessibility at the pub
We want everyone to feel comfortable and welcome when visiting The Prince of Wales. As a traditional hilltop pub, our building and surroundings come with plenty of character, and we’re always happy to help wherever we can.
Getting In
There is step-free access into the pub from both the front entrance and the side entrance by the restaurant, with a ramp available. Doorways can be quite narrow in places, so if you have any concerns, we recommend giving us a quick call ahead of your visit so we can advise and assist.
Please be aware that some entrance areas include uneven surfaces, with gravel and gentle slopes.
Inside the Pub
The bar area has space for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, although it can become quite busy at peak times. Where possible, it may be more comfortable to leave scooters outside the building.
The main restaurant is fully accessible, either through the bar area or via double doors directly into the restaurant.
Our restaurant does have limited space between tables, so we encourage guests with accessibility needs to call ahead so we can plan seating in the most suitable area. All tables are standard height.
Our team are always happy to help move chairs or adjust seating where needed.
Toilets
There are toilets on site, including an accessible toilet.
Families & Pushchairs
We are pushchair friendly throughout the pub. There is space to store folded pushchairs if needed, and high chairs are available on request.
Outdoor Areas
Our main garden sits on a gentle slope and includes both grass and gravel areas.
Outside the front of the pub, you’ll find seating on tarmac as well as a gravelled, covered seating area. Outdoor tables are accessible for wheelchairs.
We also have an events space at the back of the pub, with outdoor seating area. Perfect for sunny summers and with underfloor heating for winter it’s the perfect all year round space.
Dogs & Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are welcome in all areas of the pub. We are also a proudly dog-friendly pub, with water troughs, a hose for muddy paws, lead hooks on outdoor tables and dog biscuits available at the bar.
Support & Booking
Our team are always happy to help make your visit as comfortable as possible. Tables can be reserved in more accessible spots on request — just let us know when booking.
If you have any specific access questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to talk things through before your visit.
If you have any questions regarding accessibility that haven’t been answered above, please feel free to contact us.