IT'S the Winchester pub that isn't afraid of change.

The landlady at The Bell Inn is always looking to mix up the food and drink menus for the more adventurous customers – but keeps a few core items for those set in their ways.

Sam Smith, who has run the St Cross Road watering hole for four years, says it "works a treat".

She said: "I always keep two core ales in stock for those who want to come here and drink the beer they know. But I change the others every week for those who want to mix it up and keep it fresh.

"The beers are now starting to change with the weather. People prefer to drink the darker ales when it gets a bit colder. I've had feedback from people and they really like how it changes.

"Also, the food menu is updated seasonally. The variety of salads and summery foods have now gone – in with the warmer, more wintry meals."

All food at the pub is hand-cooked, with fresh ingredients coming from local suppliers, including Owton's butchers near West End.

There is also a £6 special meal deal on every weekday, which includes a chilli con carne and sausages in onion gravy.

Sam added: "I think the food is what brings a lot of people in. We're a proper British country pub, and we do the food how it should be – fresh and handmade.

"The clientele is slightly older, and we are definitely most busy at lunchtime."

Staff are now preparing for the Christmas period, with dozens of bookings already made. Sam also hopes to be open on Christmas day to serve food and drink around lunchtime.

She added: "We're currently having the garden re-done and updating the kids play area, which should be ready for Spring. "I've learnt a lot since being here over the four years, and I think I'm okay to say that I know what I'm doing now! I may have a Greene King sign hanging from the building, but it's great that I get so much free reign over things."