The Waterside, Hillmorton, Rugby

RR pretty much covers everything below. The beer selection was Doom Bar, Adnams Broadside, GK IPA and Suffolk Swift(3%) with Spitfire and Pride clips reversed. The pewter topped bar with barrel inserts is worthy of note and a framed information board makes the claim it is the longest of such type surviving in London. Various marine/riverine paraphernalia, including model ships and a suspended ship's wheel. An old pillar has a winch attached. Good river views especially from the balconies at the upper level.

Great location for canal users, rotten pub. A lunchtime visit found it crammed with the local mothers and toddlers group probably attracted by the tasteless but cheap fodder on offer. Despite having two real ale pumps none was on offer due to 'not being ready'. Settled for Guinness, which wasn't great. To be avoided.

The Royal Oak Inn- Hungry Horse Greene King (Hillmorton) We were led to believe this pub was a Martsons from our favoured canal book guide, so were slightly disappointed. Having said that we knew that it being a hungry horse it would do reasonable pub grub and some Abbot and IPA real ales with swan neck pumps! It is a large road side pub which sits nicely near the canal, obviously been recently refurbished had a great garden and play equipment for kids. However for a Monday night it was very quiet. For canal boaters this is a short walk from Bridge 74 along the towpath, this pub is makeable cruising wise from the Napton Marina shouldn’t take more than 4 hours cruising depending on weather and light conditions. From there it is about 15 minute cruise past the radio masts to Hillmorton Locks. 21/09/09

Very good meal, the manager was very helpful ansd kind when I broke my foot on our narrowboat. He helped get me on the boat rand a taxi for me and helped my husband with our handicapped daughter. Nothing was too much trouble. Excellant service.