The Royal Oak, Hooksway

Visited this quaint, secluded country pub after a long walk with some friends on a recent bank holiday. From the outset disappointment set in and remained. The "welcoming" was particularly nice with a scuffy hand-written sign on the main door saying what times food was served on that day. Went up to the bar and waited for ages to order a drink and when I was finally served the most surly, rude male (who I was later informed was the landlord), managed to find a glass and pour a pint. It was so obvious from the outset that he didn't want to be there that day and all his customers were an imposition and keeping him from far better things. It's such a shame as the beer quality was good and the food was over priced, but typical fried pub grub. This pub's location thrives and survives on walkers and people making the most of it's idyllic setting on the South Downs and how the landlord feels he can continue an on-going business with the appalling service both myself and others members in our group received is a mystery. Can only imagine that it's a free house and not kept in line by a brewery.

5 Jun 2011 21:14