retiredmartin

12th January 2023.

The Surrey ticking season begins.

It’s not all bad, there’s an entry in Addlestone this year, but in general Surrey means dining pubs in an AONB (Area Of NBSS 2.5 Beer).

That’s not entirely fair, the hills between Horsham and Box Hill House some crackers. But the Seven Stars at Leigh is your identikit ancient gastro, with NUMBERED parking spaces.

As we attempt to approach the bar we’re asked about reservations (no), will we be eating (no), would we sit down please (ok).

OK, it’s gorgeous, but it’s not us.

We can’t even pay at the bar for two halves of Surrey Hills, and as discussed on Discourse recently, I want to pay as I go. At the bar. And I don’t want table service, thank you.

“Who is having the Shere Drop and whose is the Ranmore ?”

I have no idea. Stop asking me questions and let me enjoy the fire.

“I’ve brought you menus. Are you SURE you don’t want to eat ?”.

We’re the youngest in a busy pub, the only ones not eating, and I only see one other pint of cask.

But Mrs RM insists the beer was good, and as she drank most of it I’ll take her word that it’s a 3.

You, dear reader, can see the photographic evidence,

and judge for yourselves.