Pub Reviews

Pub: Sir John Barleycorn Cadnam
Review Date: 30th November 2007

The Sir John Barleycorn pub is a picturesque thatched pub well situated just off junction 1 of M27 at Cadnam  in The New Forest.  It has recently undergone refurbishment and we were keen to find out if they had managed to update the interior  whilst retaining the ‘Olde World’ charm of the place, and we think they have. The very rustic appearance inside has been replaced by comfy leather sofas, modern oak/pine furniture and good lighting, giving it a very stylish ambience.

The menu was varied, interesting and suitable for all tastes including at least two vegetarian options and any queries were ably explained by knowledgeable and helpful young staff. The pasta dishes were delicious and huge! My companions had a variety of meat dishes, all very tasty and equally generous which should be taken into consideration if you are tempted by the mouth watering puddings on the board!

We had such an enjoyable evening that we immediately booked our Christmas Dinner there and look forward to our return visit.

Sir John Barleycorn
Old Romsey Road
Cadnam
SO40 2NP  
Tel: 023 8081 2236

Pub: Empress of Blandings
Review Date: 2nd December 2007

I always enjoy a visit to the Empress of Blandings, it has a nice relaxed atmosphere with an eclectic mixture of table and chairs and although it is quite a large pub, the layout gives it an intimate atmosphere. I also like the fact that if it is a dull, miserable lunchtime they light the candles on the tables!

The pub is owned by Hall and Woodhouse, an independent family owned brewery since 1777. They are based in our neighbouring county of Dorset, so almost count as ‘local’!  It is situated at Copythorne, on the old A31, conveniently located to junction 2 on the M27.

The food is freshly cooked and well presented. I have eaten some excellent steaks here and my partner is currently favouring the spare ribs.  Several dishes are available as a ‘small appetite’ sized portion and if you fancy more sauce with your pie, they will supply extra in a jug on the side. I like this attention to detail.  The staff are very friendly and make you feel welcome.

Now to the important bit, the beer! Tanglefoot is a traditional premium ale and my favourite, it even has it’s own website  www.tanglefoot.co.uk  The pub also features seasonal guest brews, ‘Pickled Partridge’ being the current one.  Back in the summer ‘Stinger’ was on offer. This was made in collaboration with Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and had organic Dorset stinging nettles added to the brew. The staff will usually let you try a sip before you buy.

I will leave it to you to discover the origin of the pub’s name!

Beer Scout

Empress of Blandings
Romsey Road
Copythorne
SO40 2PB
Tel: 023 8081 2321