The Three Compasses, Watford

A very pleasant country pub just off the M1. The 18th Century country house has a garden and car park at the front and covered seating, and is popular with walkers and riders. The inside has been opened out to form a large single bar area, though some walls have been left to form 3 demarcated bar areas. Some structural timbers have been left exposed, there is a very nice fireplace in the front bar and the décor is faux-rural/equestrian. The staff were very welcoming, the atmosphere convivial and the locals friendly. Three ales on draft – I had the Bombardier and Young's Bitter, and Wells Eagle was also available. The two beers I tried were both in very good condition, very enjoyable. Definitely worth making the trip out of town to find, and I'm sure I shall return.

Part of the Druid Pub chain. Almost seems like an extension of the equestrian centre over the road as the clientele are mostly from the ‘horsy set'. A large part of the pub is given over to diners and there is not a great deal of room to sit and have a beer. Adnams and Bombardier were on, in decent condition and priced at £3.00. There are a few rugby shirts and photos on the walls but the photos of the Aussies holding aloft the World Cup seemed a bit unnecessary. Far too many kids for my liking although there was a four generation birthday party going on so I suppose it was to be expected. Quite bizarrely there is a children's play area positioned right outside the toilets.