THE RAILWAY INN - Station Hill, Curdridge

This pub was a new one on both of us, Dad coming across it whilst flicking through a good food guide. We took that as an invite and headed for Station Hill.

Upon arrival, it was clear that there was plenty of outdoor seating, and since the temperature was holding out, we thought we would make the most of it and eat alfresco. Inside, the pub is beautifully appointed, and the staff friendly and helpful. We grabbed a drink and checked out the specials board before heading outside to our chosen table.

For a pub with a good reputation for food, we were expecting the old £14 blanket pricing which has become so prevalent of late, but not a bit of it. Despite the clearly well designed menu, most meals were nearer to the £12 mark, which would prove good value if the food lived up to its promise. I chose the chickpea and sweet potato burger which was to arrive in a caramelised onion bun, accompanied by sweet potato fries and a red pepper hummus, and all for £12. Dad's ham, egg and chips was even more of a bargain at £11.

My burger was immense, everything you would wish a burger to be. A lovely bun, toasted inside, onion, gherkin, tomato and a grilled mushroom, which I must confess to removing. The fries were well cooked and the hummus was very tasty. Dad's ham was good, although the marmalade it was prepared in was somewhat lost. He was blessed with two eggs and a selection of triple cooked chips, which in my mind should have perhaps been a little crisper after a triple seeing to.

In short, this is a lovely pub. The staff were excellent and the food was very good, and perhaps most surprisingly, it was good value for money. If you find yourself in the area known as Botley, drop in and try it for yourself. It's a perfect all round pub. Good for Summer lunchtimes, evening drinks or anything in-between.

Atmosphere          8

Service                 9

Food                    8

Value                   8

Verdict                 4*