average food, small portions, 20-30 mins to get a soft drink

If you are mad enough to go on a bicycle tour along the Grand Union Canal all the way from London, this is the treat you should be aiming for. The food is excellent and the staff seem to be used to sweaty cyclists. I have been here twice, both in glorious sunshine, and the garden is just great.

I think it was as the second flock of Canadian Geese came swimming past my window that I realised what a wonderful location for a pub. The Coy Carp in Harefield sits right on the Grand Union Canal, by Coppermill Lock and the River Colne. On one side you can see the birds and on the other, the occasional barge comes floating by. To get to the pub you have to cross a small bridge.

Although they boast a wide selection of ales and wines the Coy Carp is primarily an eatery. There are menus and cutlery on every table on all three floors. I’ve had two meals here: the open chicken pie and bangers ‘n’ mash, so my verdict on the food is based on that. I would class it as good pub food -not great, but not bad either. Good point - the onion gravy was delicious. Bad point -the pastry on the chicken pie was over cooked. However, the chicken was moist and very tasty.

The interior is cosy without being too cramped, but the best spot to dine is outside, overlooking the river. However, I was there during the summer, so of course it rained on both days and I stayed inside.