The George, Towcester

Good village pub, and all the better for being open on a Monday evening (when so many others aren't). Three-part layout, with the two rear seating areas at the back (one with a blazing log-burner) being five steps lower than the dining room in the original building at the front. Also has a sizeable patio beer garden to one side. As the Great Oakley Brewery outlet, I found Wot's Occurring (£4.30) and stronger Gobble being served from the pair of handpumps.

Called in while on a coach trip round some Northamptonshire pubs. Taylor Landlord and Golden Best, Elgoods Cambridge and Vale VPA available. It is a popular local pub and friendly.