It is one of Norfolk's most charming bars and certainly boasts one of its finest views.
But the Ferry Lane Social Club (FLSC) now faces an uncertain future with the building's owner looking to sell off the property.
The venue - fondly known as the 'Ouse Booze' - sits on the banks of the river near the centre of King's Lynn.
It has been a popular watering hole for the town's boating fraternity for more than a century before becoming a magnet for real ale fans.
The building is owned by the Ouse Amateur Sailing Club (OASC) which is giving regulars the chance to raise the money needed to secure the property, with its west-facing balcony above the river.
Customers are setting up a group to oversee the campaign, which they hope will follow in the footsteps of communities elsewhere, who successfully purchased their villages' last pubs to preserve them for posterity.
Club member David Goddard said: "Understandably, the OASC has decided that being a property owner is not part of their future strategy and so intend to dispose of the building.
"One of the avenues that we would like to explore is a community purchase. This is an exciting opportunity for people in King’s Lynn to have a share in an important historical and social asset.
“FLSC has over 400 members and there are more people who use the club for various community events.
"A recent call for support raised nearly £30,000 in just a few weeks, so we know there is a great affection for the club and a strong desire to keep it going for future generations.”
Members do not yet know what the asking price will be although some believe it will be in the £300,000 - £400,000 bracket.
The club, tucked away down an alley leading from King Street to the river, has been named West Norfolk Club of the Year for the last five years running by the Campaign for Real Ale, after becoming renowned for its range of ales and ciders.
Its director Tracy Chapman, who has worked behind the bar for eight years, said: "The club is my pride and joy, the members are out of this world.
"What better place to be than out on the balcony overlooking the river when the sun's out with a pint in your hand."
Regular Ivor Rowlands said: "It's just a great location on the river and it's really welcoming.
"It welcomes all strata of society, it's a real melting-pot for the town."
The building was originally the social club for the Ouse Amateur Sailing Club after it launched in 1881.
It became the Ferry Lane Social Club when the group was granted the tenancy of the building eight years ago, while the sailing club now uses the Great Ouse Relief Channel at nearby Saddlebow.
A public meeting will be held next month to launch the campaign, while the club remains open for members and guests from Thursday to Saturday, from 12pm - 11pm and on Sundays from 12pm to 8pm.
Share