3rd visit of Farnham and its environs: First pub visited back in town at Farnham after the walk back from the Bat & Ball some 2.5 miles south of Farnham at Boundstone. By all accounts the William Cobbett is a family-run, independent ‘proper’ pub. A real fire was in evidence although not lit but when so, keeping the pub’s pet tarantula who lives in a terrarium above the fireplace somewhat toasty no doubt. A touch of a curiosity shop about it with the walls and beams covered in old pump-clips, guitars, a skeleton, a 45rpm record collection and a propellor. There is also a cabinet full of old bottles along with football and concert ticket stubs. Lovely old black beams and exposed brickwork led me to discover from Historic England that it was Grade II-listed in 1950. It details it was the birthplace of a William Cobbett and is a 17th century, 2 storey redbrick cottage in style with its wooden eaves now dating from the early 19th century. Its old tiled roof and chimney to the left-hand side of the front, and stooped chimney to right-hand side of the front, still in place. Ancient leaded-glass casement windows adorn the outside. A friendly welcome was afforded and attentive service. Dog friendly and the majority of customers were in drinking rather than dining. According to CAMRA’s listing, the freehold owner is an individual. It was called the Jolly Farmer until 1971. Five handpumps on the bar counter with four cask ales on for my early Saturday evening visit. The one I sampled was in good nick.

Mid-afternoon visit. We were pleased to find the pub open.