IT'S a pub that most of us have seen from the motorway.
As you queue for the Romsey roundabout off the M27, you may have seen people enjoying a beer or two in the garden.
The traditional pub building may have seemed like a mirage on a rather stressful drive home from work.
We decided that it was high time we stopped driving past the Four Horseshoes and actually went in its doors for a spot of food and a pint or two.
Firstly, the pub, which is in Nursling between Southampton and Romsey, may seem within spitting distance of the motorway, but it's actually a bit more complicated to get to than that. Pop your satnav on to make sure you navigate your way through the estate if you're driving for the first time (bonus points for the large car park too).
Walking, which let's face it is the best to get to and from any pub, is easier with a subway under the busy road.
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From its exterior and the brief glimpse you get in the car, you'd be forgiven for thinking this establishment is along the same standard-pub lines as hundreds of others across the country.
But we were pleasantly surprised to walk in and see that the Four Horseshoes is not in the same league, it's a step above in style and decor.
The large plush bar, with several seating options, all tastefully decorated, makes for a very nice evening out.
The pub has been recently refurbished and everything, including the plush velvet seats, looks spotless.
The pub is attached to an old working forge which brings character - and according to its website makes it the 'perfect destination for a memorable brunch, lunch, or dinner – or a drink with friends!'
The menu is made up of classic and seasonal cooking such as steaks, fish and traditional Sunday Roasts.
There's also a plethora of locally-sourced ingredients on offer (we even spy the delicious Old Winchester cheese, handmade by Mike Smales on his farm nearby).
There are pan-fried salmon fillets, braised pork belly, handmade pies or the more traditional pub grub beef burger.
We chose the steak - an 8oz ribeye steak that comes served with triple-cooked chips, tomato and mushroom, watercress salad and a peppercorn sauce (£28.95). Our companion (a vegetarian) goes for the macaroni cheese (£16) which comes served with garlic bread and salad.
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To start we have gambas (£9.50) and bang bang broccoli (£7).
It's a fine banquet, the food is wonderfully and carefully prepared and the portions are big.
It's clear the chef has taken care to curate and create the dishes, and the quality of the ingredients used stands out.
The staff are friendly and attentive, and the whole ambience makes for a relaxed but special evening out.
If you are looking for someone nice for Valentine's Day - or even somewhere nice for Mother's Day - then you won't go far wrong with a trip out to the Four Horseshoes.
Personally, I am already excited at the prospect of visiting for a Sunday Roast. If it's half as good as the steak, then it will be outstanding.
For more go to thefourhorseshoes.co.uk/
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