ANYWHERE else, the Queen would be the village beauty but in Downe, gorgeous George just pips her.

That’s not to say she’s not pretty, with lovely old windows, stained glass and hanging baskets.

And while the stunning George and Dragon relies largely on looks, the Queen’s Head backs it up with bags of personality.

Inside is bright and spacious. Effort has been made on the interior, with bold floral wall paper, solid oak flooring, a piano and some stout leather furniture.

There are board games, darts, a piano, a book exchange and a tasty-looking menu.

At the bar were a great range of tipples – Kentish ales from Westerham and Tonbridge Breweries as well as other good ‘uns like Doom Bar.

And behind the bar was a barmaid - young and pleasant - who seemed to be happy to have customers – a marked difference from the sourpuss across the road.

But for some reason, and it is probably because I’m a superficial, grumpy git, I yearned for the George and Dragon.

Maybe it was the treat ‘em mean, keep ‘em keen attitude that ol’ Captain Birdseye was employing, but inside and out it typlified the perfect, quintessential British pub.

By comparison, the Queen’s Head felt like sitting in an anonymous but inarguably well-decorated lounge.

If the super brews of the Queen’s Head were on offer in the George and Dragon, I think I’d choose to sit ashen-faced, silently fuming over the daily paper there instead. So there, a victory for the sour and downtrodden.

The Queen’s Head, High Street, Downe. BR6 7US.

How it rated:

Decor*** Not as pretty as the pub across the road

Drink ***** A couple of local ales on tap

Price *** Ok

Atmosphere *** People laughing and chatting

Staff **** Friendly and accomodating