The Plough, Cobham

Chic refurb but so disappointing - a classic example of substance over style Bar is like a wine bar - no bar towels and pints served on napkins but still peopled by tracksuited yoof and estate agents like it was a proper pub. Staff friendly enough. The dining room looks great but they try to hide the direness of the food with fancy presentation. Mrs X had burger (burnt in a rock solid bun) on a board with mayo (in a miniature brass saucepan) and chips (in a bucket). It was more like a visit to Robert Dyas than a meal. I had fish pie, served in a 4" skillett for �13. We both has starters but by the end of mains were still hungry. We got the dessert menu but by then we were the only people left and the staff had lost interest and were all stood chatting at the bar. We left. Wine was warm and lifeless. When the refurb of the toilets is the highlight of a visit, there is something very wrong.

28 Sep 2010 09:18

The Sportsman, Amberley

A warm welcome from both staff and locals at this pleasant country pub with gorgeous views over the Arun flood plain. Excellent ales (4) and very good food (yummy wild boar sausages) at good prices. Pub has quite a bit of character although a bit blighted by '60s and 70s improvements. Overall, a pleasure to visit.

20 Sep 2010 17:18

The Lickfold Inn, Petworth

Closed 25.08.10 as widely reported in the press ("DJ Chris sells ailing boozer" - The Sun. Allegedly earmarked for housing - will get it too, no local trade, last two owners have failed to make it pay. For those of you who are interested, it used to be a Watney's house in the '60s/ '70s called the Three Horseshoes and the building isn't old at all - it's a replica with a few old beams still in place.

28 Aug 2010 11:22