If you haven't discovered 'The Harrow' yet in Stanstead Road, Chaldon, then a trip to this popular country pub is well worth a visit.  David and Becky, the owners, have established a great reputation for traditional, home-cooked food whether you fancy a light lunch-time bite in the garden or a cosy three-course evening meal in their rustic restaurant.  

It was the latter that my partner Keith and I enjoyed on a recent Friday-evening visit, and after a hectic working week it was lovely to chill out in the garden with a glass of wine before going inside for dinner.  My choice for starter was the Homemade Soup of the Day which was mushroom.  The soup was thick and creamy and came with some warm crusty bread - real comfort food!  Keith ordered the Deep Fried Whitebait and said that it was: "Whitebait as it should be - spot on!"  

David recommended one of the day's 'Specials' for my main course, the  'Slow roasted pork with apple mash, gravy and fresh vegetables'.  A very generous portion of sliced pork arrived on a bed of creamy mash with a side serving of vegetables.  The pork was beautifully succulent and went perfectly with the apple mash.  Keith chose another Special, the 'Tuna Steak cooked pink and seated on a bed of rice and garden peas, topped with lemon mayo', which he said was delicious and a nice, light alternative to steak.  Other choices on the menu included Freshly Battered Cod with chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce, Honey and Mustard Glazed Ham with egg and rustic chips, and Rump Steak marinated in a red wine and mushroom sauce.  The Harrow also offers a wide choice of salads, Ploughmans and light bites such as jacket potatoes, sandwiches, baguettes and panini for lunch, and a choice of mouth-watering desserts. 

The menu changes with the seasons, offering winter warmers during the colder months  to enjoy by a cosy log fire.

The Harrow Country Pub, Stanstead Road, Chaldon, CR3 6AJ.  Telephone: 01883 343260.