Watership Down Inn

That north Hampshire setting is lovely, and we’d hoped for a really good Sunday roast after reading the reviews. The meal itself let us down. Both £24 roast beef portions were nicely presented but fatty and gristly, as if we’d been served the end of the joint. The potatoes were bland and unseasoned, the menu’s cauliflower cheese was missing, and there wasn’t much gravy. It all gave the impression of rushed cooking for later diners, though we paid the same price. We also waited around 30 minutes after ordering drinks before anyone took our main order. A table that arrived after us was served first. We’d asked for tap water but received an opened bottle of mineral water costing £4.40. During the meal, nobody checked if we needed anything. One staff member seemed rushed even though only about five tables were left and other staff were available. Some plates were cleared while one of us was still eating, after we’d otherwise been left to ourselves. At a very premium price, plus a discretionary 12.5% service charge, it wasn’t worth it for us. We can get a much better meal for less. We’d met friends there for a Sunday roast, but the only available time was later than we wanted. Maybe this was an unusual off day.

Joe made our visit so enjoyable, going above and beyond to look after us. After the snow, he even helped my Dad get back to the car. I’m visiting from Australia and had brought my parents out for lunch at Watership Down. The food was amazing too, huge compliments to the chef. We had a wonderful time, and I’d highly recommend the place.

This is exactly the kind of place I love. We stopped on the way back from visiting Eastleigh and found a gorgeous little spot, with a lovely setting and friendly staff who were attentive but relaxed. My small goat’s cheese salad with chips was delicious. I wish I’d skipped the chips and ordered the large salad instead. Any chance you’d share the recipe? Keep it up!

We had a brilliant time here during our Bombay Sapphire weekend. The welcome was fantastic, and our room, #1, was lovely. We also had quite a lot of gin and wine. Dinner in the pub was incredible, with a really good selection on a menu that felt different from the usual. Worth every penny.