The Viper, Ingatestone

Country pub on a lane with woodland all around. There is a decent size garden to the front. Inside, there are 4 small rooms, all with lots of character. Customers were a good mix of drinkers and diners. With no music, TV or fruit machines, it was just the sound of conversation and the rattling of cutlery that could be heard. Mighty Oak Oscar Wilde & Oakham Citra are regular beers here, alongside a couple of house beers - Viper VIPA is brewed by Nethergate and Jake The Snake is brewed by Mighty Oak. 3 still ciders were also available - Weston's Rosie's Pig, Pulp Pear Craft Cider & Abrahall's Thundering Molly. In addition, Thatcher's Gold was on keg. I also noticed SALT Jute. A board outside advertised 2 annual beer festivals in May & August. I presume those are held outside, as there is little room inside. I'd say this pub is worth seeking out.

Official site of The Viper - www.thevipermillgreen.co.uk

Official site of The Viper - www.thevipermillgreen.co.uk

We call in the Viper once or twice a year. This time we chose lunchtime on one of the first warm days of spring, and it was very busy. The food trade seems to have increased which is inevitable. Still one of our favourites. Explore it when it is quiet.