Stag & Pheasant Inn, Hillmorton, Rugby

Owned by a pubco ,with a history of regular changing leasees ,the pub does retain the traditional two bar layout,larger lounge and smaller public bar both with servery access of their own.The lounge is L shaped with some fitted banquettes around the side,a collection of bar stools for the regulars and dining type tables in a large alcove,not much decoration on the walls.The public bar had the Sky Sports screen.Food was being served on a Saturday lunchtime visit,but the pub retains the atmosphere of a locals boozer and muzak was played at an acceptable volume. The real ale choice was mundane,GK Abbott,Old Speckled Hen,Doom Bar and Adnams Southwold Bitter but the condition of what we sampled was fine.Shame the choice wasn't more adventurous but maybe that what the locals like ,or what works best from the pubco's beer list.

We were really looking forward to our pint, a pub with a name like this should be Jolly good! We arrived just after noon, and it took the Landlord nearly 10 minutes to appear to serve, even with his local yelling out several times. It is what a good old boozer should be, it has a lounge and public bar, with dark wood panneling and old bar furniture,& games area. But In some ways it could do with some renovation, it certainly could do with a decent spring clean in certain places, and there was nothing of interest to look at like pictures of the local area or canal. The choice of beers was Adams Bitter, Abbot Ale and Speckeld Hen, i wasn't overly impressed with my pint of Adams, but another canal user had recommended the Hen. I'm sure for local users, this is a great village pub, but we left feeling uncomfortable and disappointed. For people on the canal, this pub is about a 10 minute walk from the bottom of the Hillmorton Lochs. Head right towards the railway bridge, take care as there is no footpath here, you should then reach Brindley Road. Turn left at the junction on to School Street, the pub is just behind the round about. It advertises food but we didnt see any being ordered. September 2012

A very pleasant, almost village like pub on the edge of Rugby. Food looked very good and was extremely good value, and although we didn't try any, most people were eating. Ale was limited to three choices and I forget what the other two were as my Speckled Hen was in excellent condition and flowed well. A friendly and welcoming spot worth a visit.