The Three Cups Inn

The pub's name apparently comes from an Old English phrase for a meeting of three rivers, although there's only one river here. That river happens to be the Test, generally regarded as the birthplace of modern fly fishing. One of these channels flows through the delightful rear garden of this 15th-century, timber-framed building, where brown trout may be spotted from the patio. The low-beamed bar to the right of the front door can be warmed by the centrally placed log fire; Itchen Valley and Flower Pots - all Hampshire real ales - and a guest, are served here. You can eat in the bar, but the main, candlelit dining area is at the other end of the building. Modern European and traditional selections blend fresh regional ingredients to create starters such as smoked salmon and crème fraîche terrine with citrus dressing; and main courses of rabbit leg braised in sherry, saffron, Savoy cabbage and wild mushroom tortellini. Accommodation suites provide Egyptian cotton sheets and real ground coffee.