Located in the peaceful and picturesque village of Exton, The Shoe Inn boasts not only an idyllic setting but also wonderful food. This pub welcomes you come rain or shine, with an attractive garden next to the river and a warm and comfortable bar and restaurant area. The dining area at The Shoe is wonderfully traditional, with wood panelling and horse brasses decorating the walls and giving it a homely feel. If you're just popping in for a drink after a walk on the South Downs Way, then there is a selection of Wadsworth real ales to whet your appetite. If you fancy a bottle of wine with your meal, the wine list boasts a wide selection including the pleasant surprise of an English white.

All of the dishes served are outstandingly presented and well thought out. The chef has taken traditional dishes and created pleasantly unique versions of them. For example, a traditional prawn cocktail, rather than being presented in a glass, is wrapped with smoked salmon slices and served with salad on top. You might follow this with a traditional slow-cooked leg of Hampshire pork with apricot stuffing, served with homegrown vegetables. This was so tender, having been cooked for 15 hours, that it literally melted in the mouth. There is a wide range of homemade puddings, including an excellently balanced seasonal wild berry tartlet and traditional favourites such as rice and sticky toffee puddings.

The menu at The Shoe is changed frequently, as the chef tries to use fresh, local, seasonal produce including fish and game whenever possible. They even grow their own organic vegetables and herbs, which are picked on a daily basis to keep them as fresh as possible.

This pub is well worth a visit, with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a family Sunday lunch or an evening spent with friends. The friendly and helpful staff allow you to relax and unwind. As far as quality British pubs that will continue to thrive and grow in popularity in this county go, The Shoe Inn is a sure thing.