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.