BARROW-UPON-SOAR.

This pub is not too hard to find as the turning is near the station. Mill Lane is not off the main road, but off Ribble Drive. If you are driving, it can get VERY hard to find a space here so arrive early and be considerate to those living close by. The best way to try this pub is from a barge, tie up on the Grand Union canal outside and walk in. The whitewashed pub is quite pretty with its porch outside - handy in both summer and winter. There is seating out here amongst the window boxes and the hanging baskets. Sit here and watch people drive over the hump back bridge. The pub itself dates from the 18th century and was a stop off point for thirsty working bargees plying their trade. Inside there are two bars, though the smaller of the two at the front of the pub can only accommodate one person at a time learning on it. This room with fire is large enough for only three tables and chairs and is small enough to listen to everyone's conversation. If you cannot climb stairs then the is the bar for you, though wheelchair users will not be able to drink here. The other bar is much larger and is multi-level. On the lower level are round tables and stools with a curved wall bench against the window. Also here is the large TV and fruit machine - strangely situated opposite the half flight of stairs down to the toilets (these can be accessed from outside via a ramp). Up a step to the bar area, there are more tables and chairs. The dark wood bar itself has a top with inlaid old pennies and the walls are covered with boating and water orientated bric-a-brac. There are usually four ales on with one being a changing guest ale. All were well kept and not too expensive. Food, served lunchtimes only from 12-2.30pm, is sourced locally and is well presented. Choice ranges from cod and chips to pies and chicken, with a selection of baguettes, baked potatoes and rolls (a children's menu is also available as are vegetarian dishes such as vegetarian wedges and vegetable burgers). Sundays there is a roast available, but book to avoid disappointment. Be warned the pub can feel quite small with people in it, just like a classic country pub, but during the summer there is a beer garden overlooking the canal. Note pub cat.