Compasses Inn, Chicksgrove, Salisbury

A quaint village pub in a thatched cottage with 13thCentury roots. It's reached down a series of narrow country lanes, but is nonetheless popular and if you want to eat, you probably need to book beforehand. There is a lawned seating area and a few benches by the door at the front, and there is a muddy, rutted carpark opposite which is problematic for low-slung sports cars in places. At the back is a lager lawned garden, part of which is currently under a large marquee and has been floored with gravel. Inside, there is a single bar which is made from 2 knocked-through rooms. The floor is irregular, stone one side, carpeted the other. There is an inglenook fireplace, plenty of structural timbers on display, and a low ceiling - all very atmospheric and cosy. Food is pub grub plus, not cheap but priced about right for the area and good quality - I had freshly cooked fish and chips, which was well presented and thoroughly enjoyable. Ales on were Otter Amber, Keystone and Butcombe; my pint of Otter was in excellent condition. They also do B&B. A superb village pub which, if it weren't so remote, I'd visit more often.

Official site of the Compasses Inn, contains menu and wine list - www.thecompassesinn.com

Official site of the Compasses Inn, contains menu and wine list - www.thecompassesinn.com