The Harrow, Steep

5 lads (Last of the Summer Wine type) from Berkshire on a day out to visit a few pubs in North Hampshire, starting with The Harrow. Arrived at 12.00 (opening time), left at 2.30 (closing time). Visits to other pubs planned for that lunchtime, cancelled. What an excellent find. Warm welcome and excellent conversation with another visiting couple but particularly with Landlady Claire and her assistant Amanda. Local old boy, Davey, was a fund of local knowledge and entertained us with a couple of songs. The two beers on tap in excellent condition. Lunch, although on the face of it a tad expensive, was of excellent quality. We will return.

14 Mar 2013 19:32

The Magpie and Parrot, Shinfield

Using BITE and Camra GBG (M&P mysteriously ommitted this year), I search out good pubs all over the country - the M&P is delightfully unique, which is why I keep coming back. London Pride, always on the handpump, is consistantly of good quality and there is usually a guest beer over the weekend. This is a beer pub with a small selection of wines, spirits and soft drinks, with a limited food menu on weekday lunchtimes, so those looking for something more exotic or with an extensive range will be disappointed. The two rooms of this small pub are generously furnished and have the atmosphere of the front room of a comfortable home rather than a public house. Assets include no mobile phones, no music, no slot machines, no credit cards, no children, an open log fire and a warm welcome. It's a pity the last three reviewers were far from happy but don't be put off by their comments, it is not the sort of place that will appeal to all.

17 Jan 2011 12:16