I WAS enticed into the Cromwell Arms by the four-star AA sign, shining like a beacon through the rainy Sunday afternoon as I drove to Romsey.

And the venue – which also offers rooms – did not disappoint.

Although the pub was packed to its wooden rafters – we were told there was a large function as we entered the country pub – it did not feel as though diners were piled on top of each other as we were immediately shown to a small table opposite a cosy wood burner.

Looking around, the pub seemed to go on endlessly, with different areas separated to make it look much larger.

There were several staff members bustling around and it was not long before our order was taken.

I was glad to see an extensive main menu alongside the usual Sunday roast offering, with many options piquing my interest.

I plumped for the roast chicken supreme, in a broad bean and wild mushroom broth with dumplings.

This was a very light and flavoursome alternative to the usual heavier roast and I finished every last bite of the succulent chicken.

Although the light broth left me surprisingly full and satisfied, I wished there had been more of the delicious dumplings to soak up the extra juice.

But for the wow factor, my husband’s fish and chips definitely stole the show (and the table space!).

The golden battered cod spilled over a large board, and was accompanied by a big helping of chunky chips, fried to perfect crispiness, with pots of mushy peas and tartar sauce.

I must admit there were many jealous looks cast his way as he crunched his way through the gigantic fry up.

The prices were on the higher end of pub nosh – £12.95 for the chicken and £13.95 for the fish and chips – but the home-made flavour and fresh ingredients made it worth every penny. Jennifer Rivett