A PUB in Lower Chute is celebrating after it was named as one of Britain’s 20 best pubs in the countryside.

The Hatchet Inn was deemed by The Times as one the nation’s top drinking spots last week.

The review said it was a “delight to find one of the most beautiful inns in the country being run by staff who care about the pub, and care about the customers drinking in it.”

Publican and owner, Jeremy McKay has been running the pub for more than 26 years.

The 62-year-old said: “I didn’t know anything about it beforehand.

"It’s just unbelievable, it’s quite something really because being in the top 20 in the country.

"The staff are very happy. They were delighted about it, and they should be proud in themselves I must say.”

Mr McKay, who has been in the business for 41 years, credits his staff, the prettiness of the pub and its location for the special recognition.

The pub welcomes its regulars and attracts foreign visitors looking to tour nearby Stonehenge.

Mr McKay also says it attracts small shooting parties as it is in one of the best areas in the country for roe deer.

The Hatchet Inn dates back to the 13th century and was originally a barn house before it was converted into three cottages.

It offers a child and dog friendly bar and restaurant plus accommodation in the form of eight en-suite rooms.

For more information visit thehatchetinn.co.uk.