Hands-on test in pretty pub listed in sports guide
Hands-on test in pretty pub listed in sports guide
COUNTRY sports enthusiasts have been actively defending their rights to enjoy their sports this year. One of the more pleasurable ways to do this is to support the British Field Sports Societys guide* and test its recommendations.
A donation for every copy sold is sent to the BFSS and the guide seeks out pubs and hotels which are involved in country pursuits either arranging them, hosting meets for the hunt or entertaining shoot or fishing parties. All the entries have been recommended by people who regularly take part in field sports in the locality.
I put the guide to an impromptu test by calling in to the nearest pub to where I was interviewing a farmers wife for a Farmlife article. It was the Red Lion, Stratton Audley, near Bicester, Oxon.
As described, it was a pretty thatched pub and the staff were certainly friendly. Sitting outside on a September day, I could hear kennelled hounds – the pub is in Bicester and Waddon Chase country.
I opted for a lunch of baguette and salad. I wish I had chosen ham, egg and chips instead. Other dishes include cantonese prawns, stir-fried Cajun chicken and 12oz T-bone steaks, and for those with a sweet tooth, sticky toffee puddings.
The guide covers England and Wales and also lists racecourses and point-to-point and polo venues, including those in Scotland. TG
*The Country Sportsmans Pub Guide (£8.95). Salmon Publish-ing, The Kennels, Eardington, Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 5LS .
The Red Lion at Stratton Audley is recommended by country sportsmen.