Northbrook Arms, Winchester

Reinvented after a period of closure, this pub still enjoys a lovely location but has been dramatically changed. Only one fairly small room remains inside, modernised with light wood and metallic fittings and feeling more like a posh bistro than a country pub. The half dozen tables all seem laid up for diners while the major part of the old building has been converted to self-catering accommodation and the kitchens. Outside there are several built-in tables to the front, while the green across the road is covered with a large number of picnic benches. At the rear the yard behind has been filled with a marquee and apparently equipped with the old pub furniture. The function room remains in the outbuldings, although there are apparently plans to convert this into more cottages and build a new extension for the restaurant. Beerwise, three handpumps offered Flower Pots Bitter, Red Cat Prowler and Siren Lumina. High end food is available at weekends. All credit for keeping the pub alive but it wouldn't be my first choice of somewhere to go.

Official site of Northbrook Arms - www.northbrookarms.com

Official site of Northbrook Arms - www.northbrookarms.com

Country pub located in the idyllic village of East Stratton and opposite the village green. One for fact fans – it used to be called the Plough until Lord Northbrook decided to rename it after himself! Three rooms, enter to main bar (quarry tile flooring, mustard yellow walls, pew seating, log wood tables, dried hops). Off to the right are two formal dining rooms, carpeted and look quite impressive. Five pumps with four on; Doom Bar, Cotleigh, Butcombe Bitter (great shape) and Bowman Swift One (a bit long in the tooth). Dog friendly, with gratis biscuits and water provided. Friendly service from the barman. Food served and we ate here, a decent main for £9, no complaints. Pretty good overall.