Our Story
A Proper Pub. A Proper Story.
The Half Moon, Sheet has been at the heart of village life on the edge of Petersfield, Hampshire for generations.
Today, we’re proud to be one of the largest free houses in the area — offering relaxed dining, characterful accommodation, and one of the South Downs’ most versatile event spaces — but our story has been shaped carefully, chapter by chapter.
2010 – Present – A Family-Owned Future Secured
In 2010, the leasehold of The Half Moon was acquired by Colin and Paul Baker, a father-and-son team bringing decades of hospitality experience and a deeply rooted family ethos.
Colin and his wife Jenny met through catering and hospitality while Colin was working in hotels in London. Their journey together included senior management roles at The White Hart Hotel in Lewes, followed by ownership of Nelson’s Bar in Southsea, before setting their sights on The Half Moon.
Since taking over, the pub has undergone a comprehensive transformation — inside and out — with every area refurbished, refined and future-proofed. The focus has always been on stability, consistency and value: doing fewer things, better.
In 2025, the long-term future of the pub was secured with the purchase of the freehold from Stonegate Pub Company(formerly Enterprise Inns), ensuring The Half Moon remains independently run for generations to come.
1998 – 2010
Pre 1998 – Foundations Built to Last
Before the modern incarnation you see today, The Half Moon was run by landlord and landlady Roger and Margaret, whose tenure marked a pivotal moment in the pub’s evolution. It was during this period that the business was transformed from a traditional village pub into something more ambitious, with the creation of the function room in its present location — laying the groundwork for weddings, celebrations and events that remain central to the pub’s identity today.
What We’re Known For Today
Quality Home-Cooked Food
In a world of reheated, bought-in menus, we remain fiercely committed to proper, home-cooked food, prepared on site and served with care. It’s honest cooking, done well, and it’s something our guests tell us is increasingly hard to find — especially in pubs of our size.
A Leading Event Space in the South Downs
Our flexible function rooms make The Half Moon one of the most established event venues near Petersfield, hosting everything from intimate family celebrations to large corporate parties, charity events and private dining.
A Great-Value Wedding Venue
We’re proud to be known as a great-value wedding venue in Hampshire, offering warmth, flexibility and experience without the formality (or price tag) of traditional wedding locations. Couples value our transparency, our food, and our ability to make the day feel personal rather than packaged.
Comfortable Accommodation
Our rooms provide relaxed, comfortable accommodation for visitors exploring the South Downs National Park, attending events, or staying with family locally.