This characterful Test Valley foodie pub (with smart bedrooms for those disinclined to drive home) is now part of a mini-group called the Miller’s Collection that also owns The Anchor Inn, Lower Froyle and The Queen’s Arms Hotel at East Garston. Set in fly-fishing country, the Peat Spade bills itself as a getaway for the country sports fraternity, and vibrant red-painted interiors (the smaller ‘rod room’ comes decked out in dark green) echo the theme with old sporting photos and curios on the walls. The dinky bar reels in savvy locals with Upham ales and the like, while the kitchen dispenses smart but unfussy regional fare – classics such as hearty slow-braised steak and ale pie or hake fillet accompanied by buttered new potatoes, samphire, capers and lemon dressing. Service is all youthful charm.