George & Dragon, Banbury

Pleasant village pub in dark sandstone, with a reconfigured interior since you have to go back a bit through a little lounge to find the compact bar and dining areas (all refurbished in a semi-upmarket traditional style). Slightly split-level patio beer garden at the back, well placed to catch the welcome late afternoon sunshine. As an Everards establishment, I found Tiger, Sunchaser and a limited edition Chasing Rainbows Pale ale (£4.80). Friendly welcome too.

Our final pub of the day in Northamptonshire was this village local in Chacombe, where we again attempted to secure a table to eat. Again, we were out of luck. So, it was to be another Chinese takeaway in the car for Mrs S & I. She does get treated well! Entering from the car park at the rear, you arrive into a fairly small bar area. It was noticeable that there were many empty glasses hanging around on the bar, perhaps suggesting that they'd had a very busy afternoon and early evening. I'm not sure if this is an Everard's pub or not, but Tiger is the regular beer. Guests were Titanic Anchor & Silver Brewhouse Baby Ghost IPA. After several minutes of standing, we did eventually secure a table to enjoy our drinks. Beyond the main bar were further rooms supposedly reserved for diners. We didn't venture through, after being told they were fully booked. Not a bad end to the night, apart from the lack of food availability in this and other local pubs.

Facebook page of George & Dragon - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of George & Dragon - www.facebook.com

Official site of George & Dragon - www.georgeanddragonchacombe.co.uk

Official site of George & Dragon - www.georgeanddragonchacombe.co.uk

Nice local in a quiet village. Busy on a Saturday lunchtime. Everards Tiger in great condition. Visit blogged at http://bit.ly/2iqsnJK