Rainbow on the Lake, Salisbury

A 17th Century country pub which, while not a coaching inn as such, was a popular stop for stage coaches travelling from Salisbury. The location is wonderful – just off the main road, yet quiet and with superb views across the wetlands. They make the most of the views with their terraced garden and conservatory function rooms, plus a roof top terrace with a barbecue. There is a rather scruffy car park which challenges low-slung cars. Inside, there are two main bars, the back bar having good views through its picture windows, the front bar being more cosy and having an open fire, and longer now that it has a small dining room extending from it past the chimney breast into a ground floor extension, rather misnamed as The Snug, and containing a tropical fish tank. There is WiFi, but the signal is weak in several parts of the pub. Two ales on, Bath Prophecy and Ringwood Razorback, both fresh and in excellent condition. We didn't eat, but the food is apparently locally sourced and appears good value. I'd be very happy to come back here next time I'm passing.