IT HAS been dubbed the perfect country pub by many who have visited.

The Rockingham Arms, in West Wellow, brings together all the aspects that make a pub a home from home. From its warm and homely feel to its dog-friendly bar, the pub, built in 1840, is visited by scores of punters on a daily basis.

And, because of its picturesque location on the border of Canada Common, many dog walkers and even horse riders pop in for some food and a drink.

Owner Liz Cottingham took over the pub in March last year and said she loves running it.

“When I first came here it was very well done, but it felt very cold,” said the former hotel owner.

“We added some cushions, some curtains and other bits. Now the combination of cosiness and warmth makes it feel like a home from home; I like to think it is very welcoming.

“We also have some great staff here – they are all nice and friendly.”

She added: “I have worked in the area for quite a long time and when I first came to The Rockingham Arms I found that some of my former customers were also regulars here, which was lovely.

“As a pub we really do get a lot of fantastic customers.”

The busy pub is also famous for its monthly quiz, which hosts more than 100 people each time and even more on a waiting list.

As well as a bar, it has a packed menu full of traditional pub fare, which is all made and prepared in-house.

But, adding to its uniqueness, it has of the more unusual things to find in a pub – a gift shop. Separate to the main dining and bar area, The Arms’ former function room has been kitted out with scented candles, stuffed toys and china.

The Rockingham Arms is located on Canada Road, West Wellow and is open from 11am to 11pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 10.30pm on Sundays. Food is served Monday to Saturday from 12pm to 2.30pm for lunch and 6pm to 9pm for dinner. Sunday lunch is served from 12pm to 3pm.

Nicola Knight, 75, retired shop manager of Lymington, said: “It is a lovely place and in a great location. I don’t go there a lot, but when we go to see a friend who lives nearby in the summer we like to sit in its garden.”

James Rowe, 83, retired police officer of Romsey, said: “The wife and I really like it; the food is fantastic and the staff are very welcoming and friendly.”

Margaret Jackson, 68, shop owner of Wellow, said: “I think its location is perfect, especially in the summer months. The inside is also really lovely.”