This Grade II-listed building has been given a revamp and is now part of the forward looking Merchant Inns Group. The interior is now decorated in fresh, neutral shades with rich leather upholstery and cartoons on the walls while the décor also pays homage to Highclere, with Egyptian-themed art in one of the dining areas.

The full menu has a seasonal, modern British slant and many items can be ordered as starters or main courses: braised Gressingham duck leg with red wine and Puy lentils or a salad of scallops with Jerusalem artichoke purée and pancetta are typical. Conventional mains could range from grilled fillet of sea bream with sun-blush tomato, crushed potatoes and basil cream sauce to double-cooked shoulder of lamb with goats' cheese gratin, Savoy cabbage and rosemary jus. Finish with praline crème brûlée or crispy apple tart with apple sorbet.

Pub 'classics' like liver and bacon with mash or beer-battered cod with chips and 'crushed' peas feature in the bar, and you can also get sandwiches every lunchtime (except Sundays). The wine list is well-chosen selection of bottles from around the world, divided up into strictly personal categories ('for dreamers, believers and divas', and so on).