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The Shoulder of Mutton
Hazeley Heath
Off the M3 at Junction 5 you will quickly find the A30 and the village of
Hook, and nearby the rural hamlet of Hazeley Heath, in this quiet corner
stands The Shoulder of Mutton.
We know that there has been a local inn in the
vicinity for a few hundred years but the exact site seems to vary depending
on which records are consulted.
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It's hard to imagine that, in earlier times, this was one of the main roads
to the West Country and was both politically and militarily important.
The
largest private dwelling in the Kingdom, Basing House was just along the
way, its ruins are still evident today. During the Civil War it was a
bastion for Royalist supporters and according to the Puritans “a malevolent
nest of papist agitators”. It was the home of the Marquis of Winchester and
considered an impregnable fortress, so much so it took 3 sieges before
Cromwell’s New Model Army finally breached its walls in October 1645, with
the young Cromwell in personal charge.
Cromwell’s fighting men enjoyed their ale and food, so there is no doubt
that they will have partaken of both at the predecessor of today’s Shoulder
of Mutton.
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The violent war torn, past is contrasted by today’s rural peace and the
Shoulder is a haven in which to enjoy superbly cooked food and to savour the
selection of fine wines or the varied choice of real ales.
Excellent food
plays a big part at the Shoulder with Lunch and Dinner served 7 days per
week. Regular visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the Dining Club’s
special events.
The Bar and Dining Room is suffused with a warm, welcoming glow which is
further enhanced by the friendly and helpful staff .
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Outside the Shoulder there are extensive gardens and
further views over the rural landscape.
When the weather permits, it is possible to have your meals alfresco or just
sit and enjoy the drinks of your choice in the delightful fragrant
surroundings.
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Hazeley Heath, Hartley Whintney, Nr.
Basingstoke,
Hampshire,
RG27 8NB.
click the postcode to access Google map directions.
Telephone: 01189-326272
www.shoulderofmutton-hants.co.uk/
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