Doggett's Coat and Badge, 1 Blackfriars Bridge, London, SE1 9UD

How does it feel?
This is quite a large pub. There's a fair choice of seating, so you can find yourself a quite corner if you like. Quite an anonymous sort of place, good if you just want a quite pint of brown and happen to be on the Southbank. Otherwise, fairly average. You could be sitting in any large pub/diner in the country.

Did they serve you ale in a glass?. A good choice of ale. I didn't count, but I'd say at least 8 draught ales to choose from. Such a good choice really helps to make more of this place.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs?Just the normal selection of crisps at the bar though there is a reasonably priced lunch/food menu.

Will you be sad to leave?
Yes, it's comfortable in here, and it's freezing out there.

Rating (out of 7): 4****.

The Hampshire Arms, Crondall, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 5QU

How does it feel?
Welcome! It's cold outside today, and this place has a massive fireplace. It's nice and warm in here, and the barmaid is friendly but not intimidatingly so. It has a country pub that sells food feel to it, which is welcome as I was concerned it may be a Gastropub.



Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yup. 2 ales to choose from, offered by the WhiteHorse and City Of Cambridge breweries.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs?Trusty KP offerings and some crisps. Also big jars of sweets which I have taken to be a sign of 'family friendly pub'. Our youngest reviewer today is less than one year old so this was a welcome sign. No eggs. Disappointed.

Will you be sad to leave?
In a way yes. This has been a great way to spend a cold autumn afternoon.

Rating (out of 7): 5*****. Nice ale and surroundings. No egg.

The Bramley Inn, The Street, Bramley, Tadley, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG26 5BT

How does it feel? Honestly I'm not sure. A bit like a hotel lobby, but with a bar at the side. A bit like an average village boozer, but with less people in it. Spacious, echoey, comfortable, hospitable. The staff and other people in here have been welcoming.

Did they serve you ale in a glass?Only an unimaginative offer of London Pride. Otherwise there's plenty on offer if you like that yellow fizzy stuff. I wonder if this place would be busier if the football was on?

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? Again, a Walkers selection and Scampi Fries. Nothing to get excited about.

Will you be sad to leave?
Not today. Despite a poor selection of ales and snacks it has been a comfortable visit though. The locals were friendly and chatty (in a good way), and we were made to feel welcome.

Rating (out of 7):4****. Friendly staff and locals made it.

The London Inn, 17 Caen Street, Braunton, EX33 1AA

How does it feel?A fairly recent refurb by the seems of things. There's no one else here, so I'm not sure what the normal atmosphere/crowd are like. Even though there's no one else here, I don't feel awkward. That's pretty unusual for this kind of place (well for me anyway).

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Unusually for this part of the world there's no Tribute. They do have 2 cask ales to choose from though.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs?Nope. Just the usual. I do like the odd packet of scampi fries though. Mmm. Dirty fish snacks.

Will you be sad to leave?I don't think so. I've enjoyed my stay, but this place makes me feel kind of lonely. Personally I prefer somewhere where there's other people.

Rating (out of 7): 2**. Comfortable, but that's all really.

Goldies, 36 High East St, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1HN

How does it feel?
We were instantly made to feel welcome. There's plenty of real ales to choose from, I hope I stay a while! It's comfortable, there's loads of places to sit without it feeling cramped, and a nice garden/smoking area out the back. There's a sign on the wall saying it is the oldest pub in Dorchester serving real ale. Having had a brief look around the town this pub must be really, really old. Dogs are allowed, which for me is a massive plus. It's nice to have dogs and ale in the same place together.

Did they serve you ale in a glass?Yes! The main offering seems to be from the Ringwood Brewery which is to be expected in this neck of the woods. I'm happy though as Ringwood normally deliver the goods. There's also a few other offerings to compliment the selection. I'd be surprised if this place wasn't in the Good Pub Guide next year - so much choice of quality ale.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs?We're here at a private function that offers canapés so I haven't checked the bar snacks just yet. If I have room later I'll go egg hunting...

Will you be sad to leave?
Yes, but then I'm sure I'll be back soon. There is an open mic session later that I'd have loved to stay for. I'm not sure if music nights are a regular thing here or not. Personally I like some music with my dogs and ale.

Rating (out of 7):7! The first one!

The Exchequer, Crondall Road, Crookham Village, Hants, GU51 5SU, UK

How does it feel?Great! There's been a recent refurbishment, and it's looking good. Modern interior, but still manages to keep hold of that country pub feeling. Very quiet inside today, I'm surprised as I'd of thought this place would pull a crowd on a lovely summers afternoon. Still relaxed though, I don't feel uneasy despite the lack of other customers.
Did they serve you ale in a glass?Yes, three Ringwood Ales to choose from. Not a bad selection at all.
Salty snacks/pickled eggs? I GOT AN EGG!




It came from a big jar, but it tastes like some from the local supermarket. Beggars can't be choosers though, what a delicious surprise! Egg...beer...sunshine. Happy!
Will you be sad to leave?
Yes! I wonder if we could set up a small commune in the beer garden. I could call this place home.
Rating (out of 7): 6. Eggtastic.

The Foresters, Aldershot Road, Fleet, Hants, UK

How does it feel? Relaxing....a Lovely Pint of Brown in a welcoming garden. Inside is nice too, quite quiet today but there's enough people to give the place an atmosphere. Seems quite child friendly, which today is a Good Thing.



However our youngest pub reviewer is getting some funny looks for his high decibel input to the blog.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes, a fine pint of Doom Bar. I had fancied something a little different, but Doom Bar rarely disappoints.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? Crisps etc, no eggs. When will I next get an egg! I know people rarely read this blog; but please if you happen to read this and own a pub - get some eggs in!

Will you be sad to leave? I don't think so. We only popped out for a walk and a beer, and both are now satisfied. I would like to come another day and stay a little longer though. Maybe try the food....

Rating (out of 7): 5. Lovely garden, lovely ale, no egg!

Billy Buds Pub, 12 Hobbs Hill, Croyde, UK

How does it feel?
A lot like a pub back home. But I'm not at home I'm on holiday. Kind of aimed at sports fans, lots of big screens. Also lots of surfing pictures, so overall ok. Fairly laid back atmosphere. I'm comfortable here, but overall I'd rather be next door in the Thatch.

Did they serve you ale in a glass?. Yup! Tribute again. Difficult to avoid in this part of the world, but luckily it's one of my favourite ales anyway.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? Just the normal selection of crisps and nuts. I came in for a takeaway pizza though, and the last one I had from here was pretty good. No sign of an egg.

Will you be sad to leave?
Not tonight, taking pizza home!

Rating (out of 7): 5.

The Bankes Arms Hotel, Studland, Dorset.

How does it feel?
Definitely the best pub I've been to in a long time. This pub has it's own brewery, it's warm and friendly inside, and an amazing view across the sea from the beer garden.



Another plus is that dogs are allowed inside. That is normally a good sign.
Did they serve you ale in a glass?
Yes they did! So many delicious ales brewed right here to choose from. I went for a pale ale being that it's a very hot day. Pale ale can be a very hit and miss affair, but this one delivers! I wonder if they do brewery tours....
Salty snacks/pickled eggs?
No pickled eggs! I asked, the bar maid laughed! I surely cannot be the first person wanting to take in the beautiful view and delicious ale with a lovely pickled egg! Good menu though, but this is not a restaurant guide!
Will you be sad to leave?
Yes! I never want to leave.... Ok, well maybe one day, but not soon.

Rating (out of 7): 6******. If only I could have had an egg!

The Emporium, Fleet Road, Fleet, Hants.

How does it feel?Like a pub. Nothing special, just a pub. It's a thumping hotspot at night, but we're here on a sunny afternoon for lunch. Despite its weekend reputation it's actually alright during the day. Friendly staff, and fast service always help. Comfortable beer garden that catches the sun makes for a relaxed afternoon pint!

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes they did, but dry limited selection. They serve mojitos on tap if that gives you an idea of the type of place this is.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? No eggs! Lunch was a wrap and chips though so the salt craving was satisfied.

Will you be sad to leave?
Not today. It was good whilst it lasted but it is time to go.

Rating (out of 7): 3***

The Links Hotel, Station Road, Fleet, UK

How does it feel? Familiar, but that's about as good as it gets. It's more like a sports bar, than a pub. Lots of large TV screens, and some pool tables. If that's what you're into, you'll probably be very happy here. If you're after a sit down and brown, it might be best to try somewhere else. When it comes to the toilet, this place feels outright unsafe. No locks!

Did they serve you ale in a glass Well no. Smooth flow just doesn't count. Lager just doesn't count either.

Pickled eggs/salty snacks? No eggs! The usual supply of crisps and nuts only. The food from the kitchen looks salty, but I'm not that hungry!

Will you be sad to leave?Nope. Unless something really weird and unexpected happens very soon.

Rating (out of 7):. 2 Just!

The Market Porter

How does it feel?Wow, busy! So much ale, this is a real treat! We've been forced outside due to the sheer popularity, but still I like it here. There is a peculiar smell, can't tell if it's the number of people here, or just the place. I'll try to get back here fora repeat review at a quieter time

Did they serve you ale in a glass Only if you stay inside. We told a little lie, to get ale in a glass, but the bouncer was quite astute, and quickly directed us back into the sanctuary of the Porter's own four walls.

Pickled eggs/salty snacks? So busy I didn't even ask. There is a tasty looking snack/sausage shop next door though.

Will you be sad to leave? Yes, so much ale to choose from, rarely do you find a pub with this variety. On the plus, there is a good curry house round the corner which is where we're headed.

Rating (out of 7):This is a hard one. Plenty of ale, good atmosphere, but nowhere to sit and so busy! Overall it's got to be a 5!

Location:Borough Market, London, UK

The Clifton, 16 Regent Street, Bristol, UK.

How does it feel? Smooth, and brown. It's got a kind of bistro vibe, but not in a bad way. Plenty of seating, and by the seems of things you can reserve a table if you are planning a visit.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes, plenty of choice of ale and for those interested some exotic lagers. We were offered a choice of glass - with or without a handle, which was a nice option.




Salty snacks/pickled eggs?. Sadly no eggs, but a fine selection of nuts etc were available from jars behind the bar.

Will you be sad to leave? Actually yes, in a way. Its very comfortable and relaxing in here. Very quiet crowd tonight which helps the atmosphere. But I'm consoled by the fact there are plenty of other pubs to visit in this part of Bristol.

Rating (out of 7): Another 6! Well worth a visit.

The Crown, Grove Road, London, UK.

How does it feel? Nice! Small inside, but comfortable seats with cushions! Views out across the park help me forget I'm in the East End of London. I also like places where all the furniture doesn't match.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yup, Doombar is on offer here. It's good to see this ale growing in popularity, and available outside the West Country.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? I didn't indulge, but they had nuts etc in jars behind the bar. I did eat here, and the food was exceptional.

Will you be sad to leave? I think so, I'm enjoying my sit down in here.

Rating (out of 7): 6. Friendly and helpful staff always add to the rating. Dogs were allowed in as well which is also a plus point.

Three Tuns, Broad Street, Hay on Wye, Hereford, UK

How does it feel? Good! A pub of two halves. One side is cosy, full of wood and stone, the other quite airy. Relaxed place to escape all the excitement in the town of books.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Two ale choices, both from the Wye Valley Brewery. I am told with good authority that this is the only place in the world where Butty Bach is delicious! I enjoyed it enough to have two.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs?. Only high quality crisps on offer here, including the previously undiscovered Stilton and Grape flavour.

Will you be sad to leave?
Probably, but we are yet to eat so may be here some time yet.

Rating (out of 7): For a beer and a sit down this is a 4. A disappointing wait for food, but this isn't a restaurant review so I won't let that influence the rating. I think they struggled with our large group, when the food arrived it was delicious.

The Crab and Dragon, Frimley Road, Camberley, Surrey, UK

How does it feel? Wow, this is a hard one. First appearance wasn't good, it's one of those modern re-fits which are not normally my first choice. The refit was possibly a year or so ago by the seems of things. However as I settle in, it is ok. There's lots of leather seats. You know how a schnauzer's fur is softer than it looks, it feels like that.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes!

When I walked in I expected that a 'cream flow' affair would be the closest to ale that I would get. I was pleasantly surprised to find they seemed to have Young's as standard, with a couple of others available. However the focus seems to be on the yellow stuff.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? McCoys again! Might just be me, but my boat won't float on a sea of crumpled crisps. Peanuts were available but I didn't even ask for an egg, it just didn't seem worth it.

Will you be sad to leave? Not tonight, but I am quite enjoying my sit down and brown here. First impression aside, I'm actually having a nice time.

Rating (out of 7): Again only a 3. I'm really stuck on the fence with this. Maybe I'll come back another day, maybe not.

The Thatch, Hobbs Hill, Croyde, Devon, UK

How does it feel? Like I haven't been away! This is sadly only a holiday haunt for me, but it's always welcoming. It's like your own front room, but looking like a pub, with more people, and a consent supply of surfing videos. It's a plus being here out of season, able to find a seat and order drinks easily.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Oh my yes! A whole host of St Austell ales on draught. I could stay here a while.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? Sadly no eggs, but legendary nachos. The chef does to nachos what Jesus did to fish. I can't believe that was one serving!

Will you be sad to leave? Yes, but luckily I'm on holiday and will be back tomorrow. Maybe even later on today.

Rating (out of 7): It's got be a 6 from me.

The Manor, St Mary's Road, Croyde, Devon, UK.

How does it feel? Like when you walk into a pub, and everyone looks at you, except there is no-one else here. Totally deserted. It is a Monday afternoon out of season though. Otherwise a comfortable bar area and a large restaurant. Unless anyone else turns up I doubt we'll stay to test the menu.

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes, a few decent ales on offer. Nothing inspirational though on this front.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? Just the usual selection of crisps etc. Nothing stands out here either. Again there is a menu for snacks.

Will you be sad to leave?I hope I do get to leave, pubs this empty always freak me out.

Rating (out of 7): I'll give the benefit of the doubt, and offer a 2. Reasonable ale, and probably ok when there are more/some people.

The De Havilland Arms - Elvetham Heath, Fleet, Hants,UK.

How does it feel? This is a new pub set amongst the rolling red brick countryside of a new housing estate. It's difficult to escape from that. Otherwise, a little like I'm drinking ale in a pre-school. Saying that though, the people with the kids look mostly happy. I've certainly enjoyed a few visits here with friends with children, quite a family sort of pub. The outside patio area is quite nice, and I feel happier here. Nice open fires for the winter...

Did they serve you ale in a glass? Yes they did! One of the redeeming features of this place, delicious Badger Ales.

Salty snacks/pickled eggs? God how I wish for an egg...Sadly just McCoys and Mini Chedders for me. They do serve from the menu until quite late though.

Will you be sad to leave? Not really, never really am.

Rating (out of 7): This has to be a 3. The good draught ale and fires score for me.