King William IV, West Horsley

Parking to front and rear. It looked like a converted old barn from the outside. I had to limbo through the inconspicuous and extrremely low front door, unsure whether I'd find a nice eatery inside or a saloon bar complete with pianist and poker-playing cowboys.

Thankfully it was the former. Though there were a group of card-players in the corner.

The interior is smartly decorated, nicely hovering the fine line between smart and casual. The dining room at the back of the pub is light and airy. There is also dining available in the garden.

We met two staff. Both smart, friendly young men. The pleasant lad behind the bar was helpful in cautioning us about the cost of the Sauvignon Blanc. The lad who served us was patient, helpful, easygoing yet efficient. So often pubs are staffed by young people who fall short, but these two were spot on.

Beers - I drank Doombar. It was yummy. MY dining partner drank the Sauvignon Blanc ("Cheaper than London" she assured me).

We were the only party in the dining area. Perhaps, had the other 8 or so tables been filled with noisy diners it might get a bit rowdy in there, but I'd take that chance.

Food - English menu. Perhaps more pub grub than posh. We both began with avacado and crispy bacon salads. My expectations were low but it was exceptional. Our mains were beef lasagne & garlic bread and a portion of pork and leek sausages with mash. For pud we each chose a chocolate sundae. My oh my!! It was beautiful to look at yet even better to eat.

Cost per head was about 17 or 18 quid (April 2011).

I'd really love to have a pub like this on my doorstep.