Hampshire Arms

If you haven't yet experienced the joys of the Hampshire Arms' triple-cooked chips, then you're missing out. This is a pub that's well-known for working culinary magic with its potatoes, which is why every dish comes with bountiful batons that are peeled, steamed and then fried twice. Diners should also look out for the hasselback potatoes, which are roasted in duck fat for a crispy exterior and ultra-fluffy filling.

Another point of difference at the Hampshire Arms is the ingenious 'host your roast' offering, where, for a group of five or more, the kitchen will present an entire roasted joint of meat to the table ready for you to carve. A chef's hat and apron is included for maximum dramatic effect. If you can't quite make up the numbers for that, then there's always the regular Sunday lunch with two different choices of meat.

As the pub is a few miles from the M3 and just off the A287, there are few excuses not to stop reading now and hop in the car. If you do need a little more persuading, be aware that this family-run pub also offers a host of Greene King and guest ales, as well as special offer nights when your meal will cost just £10. Monday is burger night - choose from six different options including vegetarian and build-your-own - and Wednesday is steak night, with a choice of three different cuts and sides. All meats are locally sourced from the nearby butcher to ensure quality and freshness