Plough Inn, Coldharbour

This 17th century inn was originally on one of the coaching routes from London to the south coast. It is now approached by narrow country lanes and is handy for Leith Hill, the highest point in south-east England. A large oak bar greets you as you enter, and on here are four handpumps, one of which will be serving the pub's Leith Hill Brewery Crooked Furrow with a second usually serving Smiler's Happiness or Surrey Puma. The brewery itself is to be found in an outbuilding towards the large and attractive gardens. All the food is home-cooked and wherever possible, from local producers. The menu is seasonal and there are always daily specials available. The food is off excellent quality and can be described as British farmhouse with a French twist. It is available from 12-2:45 and 6-8:45 Monday to Saturday and from 12-3:45 on Sunday. The main drinking area is to be found to the right of the bar, down a couple of steps, and comprises a mix of tables and comfy chairs in front of a wood-burning stove. There is a flat screen TV on the wall but this is only used for international rugby matches. The pub has six good en-suite rooms available upstairs and there is also a converted barn which can be used for functions. There is a disabled toilet and the side gate is left open for wheelchairs but there is a step into the bar at the side entrance. Dogs are welcome if they are kept on the lead and dog biscuits are available. A shop has been incorporated into the pub and this is open each day from 8:30-6 (9-5 Sunday). As well as fresh produce, tea and coffee with snack food is served, and this is popular with cyclists and walkers enjoying the beautiful countryside.