The Harp Inn, Presteigne

The Harp enjoys fantastic views over the Radnor Valley. As such, it can be extremely popular, in spite of its limited opening hours. The pub only opens during for lunch on Friday-Sunday and for an evening session (from 6pm) from Wednesday-Sunday. I saw on either their website or Facebook page that bookings were essential. Not knowing what time I'd arrive, I booked for 6pm. As it happened, we had to call ahead as we were due to arrive around 45 minutes late. It turned out not to matter at all, as drinkers don't need to reserve. Instead we were instructed to find a seat outside somewhere. Sitting in the drizzle is not very pleasant, when you've gone to the effort of booking! This was another local pub where its inclusion in the Good Beer Guide seems surprising. Only Ludlow Gold was available. There was no real cider either. When I enquired about real cider, I was given some fizzy options. My attempt to double check that they had no real cider was met with indignation, as if to say "how dare you call our cider unreal"!! Our order was taken quite quickly at the table, but only one of the two drinks arrived after a short wait. I'm not sure how an order of 2 drinks can be wrong, but there we have it. Car parking here is also difficult. Many vehicles were blocked in, as the place was so packed. In summary, a wonderful building and location that is not realising its full potential. Of course, the entire experience may have been completely different as a diner.

A stonebuilt fifteenth century Welsh Longhouse, rescued by the Landmark Trust in the 1970s, and now an independently owned freehouse, set in an elevated position in Old Radnor, close to the Herefordshire border. One enters the bar area, with flagstones, settles and open fire. Further to the right are a couple of dining rooms decorated in a lighter style.Being in a comparatively remote area,food plays a prominent role;on our October Sunday lunchtime visit, we enjoyed a decent roast - not as dear as some other pubs in the area. The Harp sources its beer from local and regional micros,having two cask ales on at a time.I remember appreciating Wye Valley HPA, alongside Ludlow's Gold. Both were well kept, with the HPA just edging it for me. On the whole, I'd rather see a pub stock two well kept beers, rather than offer a larger range of variable quality. Real cider and fizzy stuff is also available. We rather enjoyed seeing regulars and their dogs coming in on the Sunday afternoon as the food service came to a close. Service was cheerful, and the owners friendly.

Official site of the Harp Inn, contains real ale details as well as menu and wine list - www.harpinnradnor.co.uk

Official site of the Harp Inn, contains real ale details as well as menu and wine list - www.harpinnradnor.co.uk