The Squirrel, Amersham

Good pub. Recently refurbished and with a new covered deck and log burner, there is a lot more space inside and out to enjoy, whatever the weather.

Always friendly enough and their focus on being kid friendly shows though in most aspects of the pub (play equipment, menus, colouring in etc.) which is a boon to many but may not be as attractive to others. There is always the Hit or Miss around the corner (same owners, I believe) for any that need to get away from the roaming kids!

4 or 5 ales available, the two I tried (Side Pocket and another I've forgotten) were in decent condition and very drinkable.

Food is good too, not too expensive and the burgers in particular are well priced.

Can get busy sometimes on sunny days (that kid friendly appeal!) and they do have a few functions on which only exacerbates the problem. Get the feeling that the new layout is aimed at mitigating this somewhat as there is a bit more bar area now, including an outside bar.

Annual beer & cider festival weekend one of the best in the local area - gets very busy, although they do open another bar across the courtyard.

30 Apr 2013 16:42

Harte and Magpies Pub, Coleshill

We've now moved to Coleshill, one of the benefits of which is we've had the pleasure of visiting the Harte & Magpies on many occasions now.

The Cotswold Lagers have been perfect every time, the staff friendly and the general atmosphere has been relaxed and welcoming, with locals and visitors often engaged in conversation - a sign of a good pub I reckon.

The food is good and the portions are generous. Not the cheapest, but certainly not over the top considering the local going rate.

If you don't like dogs or are allergic to them then this probably isn't the place for you as they are pro-actively 'dog friendly' and this means you will inevitably share your visit with some enthusiastic canines.

While neither a hater nor a lover of dogs, this is probably the least attractive thing about the H&M to me - I'm always worried one of the kids steps in a 'surprise' outside - but fair play to them for promoting themselves in a novel way, and of course many will consider this a plus point.

My one improvement suggestion? Move the pub about � mile closer to the village so it isn't such a walk!

12 Apr 2012 10:40

The Elephant and Castle, Amersham

Great little pub, nice mix of client�le and a good atmosphere.

6 Mar 2012 12:29