The Belgian Arms, Holyport

Just when you think you've found a decent trad pub with good ale and food along comes another would be entrepreneur and buys it. This time it's one Michelin star Nick Parkinson of the Royal Oak, Paley Street.

Is there a competition amongst the wealthy and well-known to buy up every half decent pub in Berkshire?

Jury is out on this one, more in due course. The Bray pub nomads are on the move again.

17 Jan 2013 21:48

The Bell, Waltham St Lawrence

Walked here with friends on Boxing Day. Received a warm welcome, found a table, ordered the drinks and not a word about had we booked for lunch, so refreshing not to be quizzed about bloody lunch!

The Moles Brewery 'Stocking Filler' went down a treat, three times in fact.

Well done to the licencees here, great independent pub, not mucked about with by brewery idiots.

17 Jan 2013 21:41

The Pineapple, Dorney

Walked here from home on a crisp chilly day at New Year. As I walked in and approached the bar, a scruffy lad in black asked if I'd booked a table. I said that I wasn't aware that I needed to to buy four pints! And there is nowhere to sit for just a drink except in the freezing garden.

Why oh why must they ask this silly question - some of us still go to the pub for a drink!

I like the pub but object to the constant queries about food and table bookings. Next time I shall book a table and just have a beer or two.

17 Jan 2013 21:37