Taking its name from the family whose Sondes ancestors also inhabited Rockingham Castle, looming above the pub, the Sondes serves a small village, some overflow from Corby, passing trade off the busy A603 and the surrounding countryside community. By rights it should be serving them in far greater numbers than it currently is.

Some years ago a major national brewer did a deal with the Estate and greatly expanded the pub so there is plenty of room for all. The formula is much the same as elsewhere, with bar meals quickly available and more leisurely dining taking place in the sympathetically converted and added areas.

There have been some variations in the quality of the cooking over the years but it seems to have settled down to a formula of traditional food of an acceptable standard, pleasantly served. Stopping there for a 'snack' on the way home one evening we selected a freshly made 3 egg omelette with prawns and some really good chips, and a baked potato with prawns and coleslaw salad. Both dishes would have passed for generous main courses anywhere else. And coffee afterwards was simple - but sublime - or was it just my state of mind?

Some fervently wish that the Estate would regain full ownership and run it themselves as other serious stately home owners have done in similar circumstances. The owner of Ripley Castle in Yorkshire, where this has been done so effectively, would surely be glad to offer sound advice in return for a good day's shooting?