The Sportsman, Tadworth

A real country pub, popular with walkers, hidden away in a hamlet atop the North Downs on the far side of the M25 from Reigate. L-shaped layout with the bar at the front of the original building and the dining area off to the left in a single-storey extension, with both parts refurbished in a semi-traditional style. Also has a patio beer garden on the other side. We found Pilgrim's local Surrey pale ale, Shere Drop from Surrey Hills, Young's Original and Doom Bar being served from the four handpumps.

Facebook page of The Sportsman - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Sportsman - www.facebook.com

A good country pub, not quite unspoilt with its emphasis on food but about as close as you are likely to get in the area. A stone-floored bar with a carpeted area to one side, a high-tabled room to the other leading through to a dining room behind, all in a tasteful green wood-panelled colour scheme. Outside are a mass of picnic benches fronting the adjoining woodlands. Popular with locals, walkers and dogs and still serving good solid food. Beerwise, on handpump were TT Landlord, Youngs Original, Old Speckled Hen and Greene King St Edmunds. The Landlord was extremely drinkable, if a little cold.