I had never visited the Sir Walter Tyrrell pub before, but it reminded me of Sunday lunches in the 1970s.

As a family we seldom went out for lunch in those days, keeping to the tradition of gathering round the dinner table with a large roast and a hefty sponge pudding to follow.

And always on the radio there was Family Favourites and requests for Matt Monro, Freddie and the Dreamers and Sparky and his Magic Piano.

And that was what reminded me of childhood Sunday at the Sir Walter. It was the music.

The restaurant itself is also something of a throwback to the early Seventies, with its patterned carpet, fake beams, and slightly well-worn appearance.

The atmosphere is family-oriented. There were a few couples, but on the whole most of the guests had youngsters in tow and were enjoying their meals while the kids played in the extensive play area outside.

The food itself is good solid Sunday pub lunchtime fare. Our two youngsters chose the lasagne, which proved to be of a generous portion. They could have chosen from a smaller children's menu.

I chose the lamb roast and my wife had the chicken. It wasn't very exciting, but then again the Sir Walter didn't seem to pander to those who wanted their lunch to follow the latest trends.

Puds were traditional and the ales were fine. The Sir Walter is the ideal spot for a Sunday lunch pub. Not far off the A31, it offers travellers a chance to experience a bygone world when the Morris Minor ruled roads and Doris Day ruled the airwaves. Perfect for a more relaxed Sunday lunchtime.

The meal for two adults and two children came to well under £25.

Reservations: 023 8081 3170.