The Gun, Keyhaven

Came across it much like others below. The Hobgoblin was on its way out so had one drawn straight from the barrel - wonderful! Plenty of nooks & crannies - character - particularly the wooden crab table & chairs! Superbly kept large garden - dog/children friendly. Ploughmans' to die for, especially the home-made real ale pickle - so overall pretty satisfied.

4 Jul 2009 17:18

The Running Horse, Leatherhead

Yep, snapped up by Shepherd Neame after the sale of some of Punch Taverns top pubs about a month back - the guv'nor only had 5 days notice, himself! Was there shortly afterwards, 4th June. SN's beers are sound, so the locals pretty pragmatic about it. Old Ron Huddlestone is a real gent & friendly landlord - so the old pub is still in good hands.

4 Jul 2009 17:10

The Running Horse, Leatherhead

Over the years 'The Runner' has always been consistantly friendly & full of character & characters.
Name derives from 'The Rummynge House' reputedley a house of ill-repute run by the legendary Elynour Rummynge, the subject of a C16th poem by poet laureate John Skelton.
In December an alternative pub sign was unveiled, painted by one of the barmaids!
So an old place steeped in history which famously resisited a 'Firkinisation' thanks to the efforts & petitions of the locals - who are staunchly loyal.
They do try so hard to please and the ales - of which there are usually five, including a revolving guest - are well looked after.
Do have a soft spot for the old place - warts & all - so heartily recommend it & would hate it to be modernised & lose it's unique character. Public bar has been 'done up' though! Plus a nice & popular garden.

20 May 2009 01:22