AJ outside the Harrow Inn, April 2002

This pub oozes character and history and friendliness from the staff and locals. If you want to get away from it all and enjoy the simplicity of a tiny village pub, then give this pub a try. I would offer advice how to get there, but seeing as we got very lost trying to find it, it's probably best to click on one of the map links above and ensure that you've a good navigator to help you find it! It's less than a mile from Petersfield at the western end of the famous A272 where it meets its end at the A3 dual-carriageway. Probably best to approach from Petersfield, or better still leave the car in Petersfield, call in at a cafe, mull over the map with a cup of tea, and then wander up the roads and paths compass and map in hand!

For many many years Ellen McCutcheon was landlady. She was born in the pub in 1929 but sadly passed away in September 2005, and there were concerns that this pub might change for the worse. However, I'm pleased to say that her daughters have taken over and have kept things running as before. Such uniquely special pubs like this are now so few in numbers and can be gone in an instant (as I have found with pubs in this guide), it would be such a shame to see this gem be banished to the next volume of a local history book. Anyhow, this 17th century pub has a lovely little public bar, with a lovely large brick fireplace, a traditionally tiled floor, beamed ceilings, pine wallboards, large elm tables and simple benches along the walls. Hop bines adorn the bar and the excellent Ringwood and Cheriton real ales (others may be available) are served straight from the cask racked up behind the bar. Cheriton Pots (abv 3.8%) is one of my favourites, the floral hoppiness and citrus aroma make for a very refreshing pint on a warm summers day. Local wines and juices are also available.Fantastic!!

The food is excellent and refreshingly simple and unfussy. Excellent home made scotch eggs, salads, quiches and pies. Outside seating is available and there's a nice wild garden.