The appeal of country pubs lies in their ales, their food and the typically relaxed and friendly atmosphere that prevails. The Hogget Bar and Kitchen in the village of Hook scores on all points and you won't be surprised to find that it is pretty much one of the favourite local haunts. The décor is simple and unpretentious, and lets you soak up the ambience with ease.

The emphasis is on modern British cooking using fresh local produce and starters of spiced lamb samosa with aubergine caviar and a tomato and red onion salad make an interesting beginning. For main course, you could try the perennial favourite, slow roast pork belly with baby carrots, puree of butternut squash, smoked bacon mash and red wine sauce. End with the moist Moroccan pistachio cake with crème fraiche or some of the exceptional cheeses. The wine list is short and concise while the bar has some fine real ales, lagers, ciders and stouts.