The White Hart Inn, September 1999

A 16th Century inn in the hands of the Lionheart pub group just off the A420 Bristol to Chippenham Road (between Junctions 17 and 18 of the M4) in the tiny hamlet of Ford. The pub, situated by the Bybrook River was filmed in Dr. Dolittle. Although the pub does put more emphasis on food with seating in the bar, buttery and indeed in the restaurant over looking the river at the back of the pub, they've a wide selection of real ales on offer. Eight were on offer when we visited though up to twelve might be available including several from independent breweries.

A very traditional bar with large wooden beams and a fireplace dating from 1553. You can also play pool on a circular table. They've tub armchairs in the bar and if the weather's nice you can sit on the terrace by the river. If you're lucky you might spot a trout in the stream or a peacock in the garden.

Foodwise they offer bar food at lunchtime and a wider restaurant menu at lunchtimes and during the evening. We booked a table early at lunchtime and were glad that we did as the pub soon filled with diners. The restaurant menu, although more expensive than most pubs (cheaper options were available), was still good value with tasty unusual well-presented dishes and fast efficient service.

Overnight accommodation was not cheap though of a very high quality with the use of a swimming pool available to residents.

Giles, Colin, me, Jim & Gareth settling down for some
top quality Sunday lunch with a good pint, September 1999