Royal Oak, Swindon

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A village pub, the only one currently open in Bishopstone, which concentrates heavily on food but still manages to cater for the local population. The pub has a large open plan bar, complemented by a wooden terrace outside at the front. The food brings in a trendy dining crowd, while the few locals group together in a corner of the bar. There were also a few walkers and cyclists in as the country location makes it an attractive place to visit, while the landlord goes out of his way to support local custom by allowing customers to barter for beer and cheap meals with their surplus home-grown fruit and veg and offering a free taxi (well, Landrover - "uncomfortable") service to those who may be hard-of-walking after an evening's drinking. There is also free wi-fi for those who can't do without their laptops for an evening.

The beer is Arkell's, and there were 3 pumps on. I had a pint of Moonlight which was in very good condition and most enjoyable after the walk there. An unusual country pub, welcoming and well worth a visit as part of a crawl or for a meal or evening out.

On 30^th September 2010 - rating: 7
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