The Rose and Crown, Sandridge

Well, thank goodness the temporary manager and her cronies have left as the regulars were dropping like flies. As everyone knows the r and c has changed hands a ridiculous amount of times, partly due to the fact the pub has been confused about what it was and people trying to make it into the wrong thing. I wasn't going to go back after the last lot but am glad I did, an excellent selection of wines and a great new manager, Shaun, who I feel will make a go of the place and rebuild the pub's reputation. Friendly barstaff and some real characters which is what you need in a village pub and at the end of the day that's what makes a place popular. The ale tastes good and the atmosphere is welcoming. Am looking forward to sampling the food and seeing what entertainment they put on.

28 Jun 2011 20:59

The Gibraltar Castle, Batford

I'm a local and live within walking distance of this pub which is very picturesque from the outside. I have started visiting here much more often but both myself and my partner have been completely puzzled by the landlady's behaviour. The landlord is very friendly and the barman, Michael is warm and chatty but the landlady was openly rude, glaring at us the first few times we went in most recently. My girlfriend is a very attractive and if looks could kill she would have died on the spot with the look of contempt the landlady gave her. I would put her to be in her late forties and can only assume she has a major chip on her shoulder. The last visit was the worst, she openly criticised the barman for taking our food order, even though there was a few minutes till last food orders. she then proceeded to sit and glare at us while we ate our food outside and then was openly vocal and causing a bit of a scene as she followed her poor husband about, making various negative comments, some of which must have been aimed at us. At the end of the day we were spending our money in this pub and as such should be treated with respect but I doubt we will go back which is a shame as the food is nice and it is a quaint place and as I say, Michael is a great barman but if you can't go in there if your a good looking girl because the ageing landlady can't cope then you best steer clear. I know we will!

28 Jun 2011 20:51