The Barge Inn, Pewsey (From This Is Wiltshire)

The Barge Inn, Honeystreet, Pewsey, SN9 5PS.

(01672) 851705

Expecting a traditional canalside pub, we were somewhat surprised to find a quirky den of hippy, retro folk at Honeystreet’s The Barge Inn.

The people match the decor which includes a messy – slightly chic – bookshelf, an antique television and a worn laminated menu.

As for that menu, to say it was limited would be polite. It was agreeable with just a handful of options, but our order started to unravel when the mushroom, spinach and goats cheese tart was unavailable. We skipped starters.

Then the vegetarian homemade pie was struck off the main course, much to my friend’s disappointment. Confusion set in when they offered to rustle up mushroom stroganoff with Stilton and cream sauce, served with mash potatoes, despite saying there were no mushrooms for the tart.

I chose sausages with mash, onion gravy and mixed vegetables. The mash was delicious – it had a lovely peppery taste, but the mixed vegetables never materialised and I found just one sliver of onion in the ‘onion’ gravy.

For dessert, my friend chose chocolate indulgence and I had fruit sponge. Both had clearly been microwaved, but mine ought to have been radioactive. I could stand my fork in it because it was so overcooked.

All of this was washed down with a lovely pint mug of 1810, a traditional cask ale from the Honeystreet Brewery. It’s fruity and malty, with a bitter aftertaste.

This is a delightful setting if you want something completely different, but don’t go for the food. Instead, soak in the atmosphere and enjoy it with an ale, bring sarnies and enjoy them on a canalside walk.

Free wi-fi Internet access

Camping area and canal moorings

Good range of local Honeystreet ales

Quirky, hippy atmosphere

Limited menu, especially for vegetarians

No wheelchair access