The Dukes Head

Coins dated 1621 found during renovations some years ago support the belief that an inn has stood where the roads to Romsey, Salisbury and Stockbridge cross the River Test for many centuries. In summer its cream-painted façade and large front garden are rich with flowers, at the rear is a terrace, while its rambling interior incorporates a beamed bar with a big log fire, a cosy snug and four other comfortable rooms. The real ale roll-call is good, with Fuller's London Pride, Hop Back Summer Lightning, two from Ringwood and four weekly changing guests. Food suggestions for lunch or dinner include steak and ale pie with shortcrust pastry; rustic chilli with wild rice; deep-fried haddock in beer-batter; and duo of pork. Fresh fish and shellfish, including sometimes seared scallops, appear on the specials board. There's a beer festival in May and September.