We are raising funds to help transform an historic river boat into a new, vibrant neighbourhood bistro which will provide a welcoming environment for all. The Elizabeth will be moored in the fantastic location of Watchet marina.
Mooring location in the following photo:
What The Elizabeth is about
The Elizabeth is a family owned 1922 ferry boat. Aboard will be a new, out of the ordinary 18 cover bistro that will serve from a menu of seafood and tapas. All cooked to order, the meals can be accompanied by a selection of wines, locally produced ciders or beers etc. We aim to serve top quality, fresh, locally sourced produce, helping support the Watchet community, fishermen and businesses.
We are in active discussions with local buisnesses such as the Porlock oyster farm, local fishermen, micro breweries, organic vegetable suppliers and many more. Ingredient traceability is very important to us not only for our customers satisfaction but also to ensure a consistantly high level of quality.
The local area is a charming rural coast with stunning views and a welcoming community, the town of Watchet is not only home to the tavern Pebbles which has just been voted Somerset cider pub of the year for the third year running. Watchet also has historic links that are presented in the local museum.
With this in mind we would like to encourage any interest by mentioning the surrounding beauty and attractions including the West Sommerset Railway (which has working steam engines throughout summer), the Mineral line (a picturesque walk in the sommerset countryside) or even after your meal aboard Elizabeth, take a leisurely walk along the beach, the choice is yours!
There is much to see and do and we are only scratching the surface of what Watchet has to offer, with your help we can provide a new gathering place and delicious fresh food.
We have a background in hospitality and property renovations. Putting these skills together gives us the ideal tools to put our ideas into action, as you can see..
Who we are
We are the Maile family. We are originally from Cheshire and Leicestershire. We moved to Scotland where Julie successfully ran our guest house for over 12 years while Gary continued his joinery business, carrying out renovations, heritage work etc.
We have happily lived in Watchet for some time now, and so much look forward to our opening day.
We love travel and finding out as much as possible about different foods and drink.
We are so excited at the prospect of opening the bistro and giving something different to the Watchet community
Our project
Since Elizabeth was delivered on the quayside and we started work on her transformation, we have had regular visitors showing intest in the project. They are intrigued and often re-visit for up-dates on progress. We hear encouraging words such as: 'looking forward to opening day' and the venture is "just what Watchet needs". It is comforting to hear people confirm that we are on the right track.
We are working really hard and our savings have enabled us to buy and start to renovate the boat and we've made big steps towards completion. It is a challenge for us to do this while still holding full time jobs, we work on the boat evenings and weekends. All we need now is your help and generosity to fund the final steps.
What will the funding mean?
If we can successfully raise funds, we will be able to install the services needed. Then the kitchen be purchased, fitted and be of a standard for our chef to create and provide the highest quality of food to compliment the fresh locally sourced ingredients.
The mooring has been secured. Please help us to have a successful launch.
We look forward to welcoming you on board
Thank you