Hampshire country pub Samuel's Rest made sporting history

Samuel's Rest, an old-fashioned boozer with a friendly ambience in Shedfield, was the founding place of the British Petanque Association. 

It also boasts two pool tables, a darts board and a jukebox.

Crib boards and cards are always available to customers.

The watering hole has a large beer garden and outdoor heating but is probably best known for the home-cooked pub classics on the menu, which are described as old school and unpretentious with huge portions.

Favourites include curries, lasagne, suet steamed puddings and gluten-free pies. Diners love to tuck in to a huge Sunday Roast every week.

Behind the bar, the most popular drinks are Kronenbourg 1664, Neck Oil from the Beavertown Brewery, Wadworth I.P.A, Fosters, Thatchers, Aspalls ciders, Guinness and 6X.

The original part of the building was built in 1790 as living accommodation for the stables next door with the rest being added in 1861 and known as Sam's Hotel. 

The British Petanque Association, the National Governing Body for the sport in England, was founded in Sam's Hotel in 1974.

In 1999, the venue was sold by Marston's to Greene King then to Wadworth's.

Shaun and Nicola Payne and their children have been running the dog-friendly pub since 2013.

Nikki said: "We've had many memorable moments over the nine years with so many people. 

"But the announcement from the government closing us down without any notice for lockdown would be a moment we won't forget.

"First it was the pandemic, now energy prices. We're facing the threat of challenging price increases. It's scary and we would be mortified if this closes us.

"The best thing about running a pub is meeting so many different people and achieving a popular place to visit for others. The worst is the financial battle with all these price increases."

The walls of Samuel's Rest are adorned with lots of old memories. Paintings by local artist Catherine Lawrence are also sold there.