The Maidenhead Inn (JD Wetherspoon), Basingstoke

Rather unremarkable pub, was expecting better from outside. Despite the split levels its modern and characterless, small & long with an outside space at the back

Canteen style spoons with a unremarkable beer lineup, I wouldn't bother again.

More seating areas than initially appears in this 'spoons in the old 'Top of the Town', and relatively light and modern (if anonymous) furniture and decor help avoid a gloomy feel. Fair selection of real ales from six of ten handpumps, ranging from Ruddle's, Abbot and Doom Bar to the more interesting Jaipur, Exmoor Beast and Loddon Forbury Lion IPA (£2.65).