The Royal Oak, Holmbury St Mary

I've been a regular here for nearly two years and visited and done work at The Royal Oak for a long time. All pubs are struggling in this financial situation, and Dawn and Ian, and now Julia the new Manager as well as the staff are working really hard to keep going and to make improvements. I am astounded that anybody takes their own sandwiches and expects to eat them at a Commercial establishment - (BrixtonSteve) and then vindictively comments on line that the beer is flat because they've been pulled up about it (BRixtonSteve) - which by the way there are two signs in windows and one permanent sign to say not to eat your own sandwiches (BrixtonSteve) so get your facts right! I've never had a bad pint at the Royal Oak and whilst Dawn, Ian and Julia have been here have seen a vast improvement on what was happening before they arrived.

All Customers get a warm welcome at The Royal Oak which I see on a regular basis, as though not in the pub all the time, have seen it at all times of day even when it's heaving on a Sunday lunch - and believe me like any busy day it's stressful for the staff but there's still a smile on their faces!

This pub offers great value homecooked meals. Try the fish and chips and see if you can finish it, or the fish pie which is the biggest I've ever seen, and see if you can finish off with a sticky toffee pudding which has had rave reviews! By the way, they don't advertise it but they've just been voted best Ham Egg and Chips in Surrey!!!

Cycling, Walking and Running groups use The Royal Oak on a regular basis where they are offered special deals and catered for out of normal food hours. The local schools are allowed (with prior agreement) to use the gardens for children with their own sandwiches - showing true community spirit.

An all round good pub, struggling in this current climate that DOES good value, good food, good beer and has freindly staff.

5 May 2010 18:16