CHRISTMAS time is upon us, and that can only mean one thing - food.

We all love a family get-together this time of year, but not all of us will fancy cooking a huge meal... or taking on the mountain of washing up that comes with it.

Basingstoke Gazette: If you're in this situation then fear not, we've put together a list of five Basingstoke pubs to enjoy a Sunday lunch this Christmas season, most of which, are dog-friendly.

It's a busy time of year so many of these pubs are subject to booking, so it's best to get a reservation before turning up for lunch, to avoid disappointment.

In no particular order:

1. The Holly Blue, Beggarwood

Whether you feel like a roast or a light bite, the Holly Blue in Beggarwood has got you covered.

In this gastropub, you can choose to dine in the cosy restaurant - complete with a warm fireplace - over in the more lively bar area, or outside in the new winter marquee.

The menu caters for everyone and ranges from a Mediterranean vegetable tart, to what is quite possibly the best pie in Basingstoke - the steak and tanglefoot pie.

READ MORE: How some of our favourite pubs have changed over the years

2. The Wellington Arms, Baughurst

If you're looking for a country pub to enjoy a quiet Sunday lunch, look no further than the 'Welly'.

Owners Jason King and Simon Page have spent 18 years at the helm, working hard to perfect seasonal menus using homemade and home-grown ingredients.

With its lush wooden beams and terracotta floor, along with a warm fireplace, you can see why this pub was recently named as one of the 'cosiest getaways' in the UK by The Telegraph.

Their vast menu features a goat cheese soufflé -  which "People can't get enough of" - according to chef Jason.

3. The Beach Arms, Oakley

If you want a straightforward carvery dinner, this is the place to go.

There are no unnecessary bells and whistles here, you get exactly what you pay for, at a very reasonable price.

Not partial to a carvery? No problem, this pub has a pizza oven for those who don't fancy a roast.

You can't go wrong at the Beach Arms.

SEE ALSO: Pub named as one of the UK's cosiest getaways

4. The Dragonfly, Carpenter's Down

Pub food and carvery. What more could you ask for?

The Dragonfly is known for its quality carvery dinners and very diverse menu.

The pub serves all sorts of food including chicken wings and nachos, as well as traditional pub classics like hunter's chicken.

It's definitely worth a visit if you're feeling peckish this Christmas time.

5. The Hatch, Old Basing

This classic pub on the A30 always has a cosy feel at Christmas time.

With its traditional decor and warm fireplaces, The Hatch is a very inviting place to have a Sunday lunch.

The menu ranges from a (rather delicious) duo of Korean chicken to classic gammon, Keralan chickpea curry and a range of pies.

Located only a stone's throw away from Conkers Garden Centre, you can enjoy a nice afternoon out with the family.

Have you visited any of these pubs for Sunday lunch recently?

Perhaps you have a suggestion of your own?

Let us know what you think.