Licensed since the early 1800s, this much extended former Whitbread pub once fronted the Great North Road (A1) and the 14th hole from the nearby Welwyn Garden City golf course provided a hatchway to the rear. Now the A1(M) cuts through the back and all that is left of the old A1 are the cats-eyes in the cul-de-sac at the front. The pub has a good reputation for food and booking is advisable, there are ladies' lunches on Wednesdays and fish features on a Friday. There are two gardens (one children free). Convenient stopping off place for walkers to the nearby Brocket Hall estate or Sherrardspark Wood. Restaurant not re-opening before 17 May. Bar food available.