AN ODIHAM pub has unveiled a blue plaque to celebrate its iconic status within the village.

Residents and dignitaries from around the area joined the ceremony which saw a plaque unveiled at The Mill House, in Hook Road.

Members of the Odiham Society, an organisation that exists to promote and preserve the history of Odiham and North Warnborough, decided to award a new plaque to the public house due to its long-running importance to the village and surrounding areas. 

The Mill House was one of eight mills listed under Odiham in the Domesday book and its famous water wheel was one of the few sources of power generation available to the village. 

John Champion, chairman of Odiham Society, said: "Individually the blue plaques make a small contribution to the community, but our aim to help enable people to get an insight into the history of Odiham and North Warnborough - both of which are ancient settlements.

"The Mill House has strong associations with the industries of tanning and brewing and was a major part of the industry of Hampshire.

"It's a building that dates back to the Saxon times, so to be able to give people a place where they can go in and see the building is incredibly good."

He added: "It's important for the community because the blue plaques encourage people to get out and engage when they go on walks. For us it's all about bringing heritage alive - and of course ending your walk at a public house or restaurant is the done thing now, so The Mill House works as a great spot to finish up."

The pub was burned down in 1345, rebuilt and then renamed King's Mill. It was owned by the former royal Manor of Odiham.

In the early 20th century, the mill became a residential property before become The Mill House in the early 1990s.

The plaque recognises important buildings in the area and was formed as part of The Odiham Society Plaque Project.

Ben Walton, manager at The Mill House, said: "The building is seen as something really interesting, both historically and its place within the community.

"The history of the building dates back to when the king had Odiham Castle and in the first Domesday book, it was the first entry for Hampshire. 

"It's a beautiful place with the river running through it, so it's great for this to be recognised."