The Kings Head, Holmbury St Mary

I hadn't been here for a couple of years at least (country walks just hadn't happened to pass through Holmbury at the right time for a pint) so it's a shame to see things went wrong under recent management.

I've been visiting recently, though, having expanded my list of favourite cycling routes, and I've been very impressed. It's still quite quiet, but I'm only seeing it on weekday lunchtimes. The landlady is very friendly and food service is quick. I haven't tried the full meals, but the baguettes (while rather expensive) are excellent; tasty and nicely garnished. The beer range doesn't seem to be as broad as I remember it, but there's usually three good ales on, and they're well kept. We're often spoiled these days with vast ranges of niche craft ales, but still... a good pint of Hophead takes some beating (especially when you've just cycled up Holmbury HIll).

29 Oct 2015 14:19

The Rifleman Inn, Epsom

Further to my previous review, three months ago, I've been in several times since and what a great selection of local counties beer... Kissingate, Tillingbourne, Surrey Hills, Triple F, Sambrooks, London Beer Factory...

Also, now the weather's warming up, a very pleasant beer garden.

11 Apr 2015 00:11

The Rifleman Inn, Epsom

In 5 years of living in Epsom, I never thought to try this place, seeing the Greene King sign. Sometime last year the local free rag mentioned that they'd had a refit and would be selling local guest beers, but I just never got round to trying it until today...

What a pleasant surprise! Two good local breweries (By the Horns and Twickenham) a new brewery from Devon (gah, name escapes me now) and decent cider in the shape of Weston's Rosie's Pig. And the only hint of GK was the unused (ha!) Speckled Hen pump. Didn't try any food, but the ambience was friendly and pleasant. Being picky, I thought the two local ales didn't taste quite as good as I'd expect, but this is a huge step in the right direction... I'll be visiting again.

14 Jan 2015 21:53