This solid Hampshire pub has a history going back well into the 1600s, and has responded well to the high-wired times in which we live. Nonetheless games of Victorian cricket are still held on The Butts Green in Alton, and where cricket is can the consumption of strong ale be far behind?

The ales and lagers on draught read like a litany of honour, with names like Ringwood Best Bitter, Butcombe Bitter, Fuller's London Pride and Hobgoblin hanging in the air. A skittles alley gives the lads a chance to work up a thirst, and those with more modern living on their minds will find the pub is a WiFi HotSpot.

A wide ranging menu carries conviction, start with a coarse Ardennes pate, served with red onion chutney and melba toast, before considering the relative merits of beef cobbler, twice baked pork belly, home made chilli or a delicious home made beef lasagne.

The steaks are legendary, but one of the most appealing menu items is their home made steak burger with bacon, cheddar, salad and chips. Children have their own menu, with such old favourites as bangers and mash, fish and chips, and scampi amongst the selection. Desserts follow much the same pattern of comfort food, with bread and butter brioche pudding, treacle sponge and custard, or a rich dark chocolate mousse regularly to be found.

An uncomplicated wine list never exceeds £30, yet manages to cover a sound range of interesting wines.