An ideal pub for visiting this summer is The Rivelin, Stannington. Just off Rivelin Valley Road served by the No 64 bus and a few minutes walk from the 82 bus just before the Hall Park Head terminus.

Once there you could quite easily believe that you are in the middle of the countryside, with magnificent views across Rivelin Valley, on a recent visit there were horses looking over the wall next to the car park. I always feel obliged to stroke them although I wouldn’t mind betting that they want some tit bit to eat, but stroking them is better I am sure.

The beer garden and rocks above are well lit at night and the rock formation called The Old Man’s Head is partially obscured at the moment but sympathetic pruning will reveal all.

The garden is a safe playing area for children with access into the bar area. The pub is open plan, country style with a restored Yorkshire range and proper fires. In the no smoking room, called The Surgery, there is a piano which can be used by anyone and currently Sunday lunchtime there is a regular pianist.

Bronya and Lee Jackson have been at the pub for about six months and have a new summer menu with food being served Tue- Fri. 12.00-2.00 and 00 and 5.00-7.00. Sat.1.00-5.00 and Sunday lunch 12.00-4.00.pm.

There has just been a successful Folk Festival with all day BBQ and money was raised for St. Luke’s Hospice but regular music nights are Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

Monday is quiz night, free to enter with a gallon of to win and free buffet provided.

The pub is dog friendly and is a smashing place to call in if you are walking in the area.

JOHN BEARDSHAW