A LOVELY country pub, just outside of Basingstoke, has unveiled its garden for the summer and it is simply perfect.

Normally, roast dinner and sunshine don't mix well, but The Mutton in Hook serves up such a good Yorkshire pudding it's hard to resist.

The Mutton at Hazeley Heath is achieving a good name for itself, it was recently named Pub of the Year for Hampshire at National Pub and Bar Awards and was also recognised by Muddy Stilettos.

So, when the team invited us along to see their new garden I was excited. 

READ MORE: The Mutton at Hazeley Heath National Pub and Bar Awards winner

@megan_stanley_ The Mutton is the perfect place for summer 😍 #hampshire #PRinvite #hampshirepub #roastdinner ♬ Walking Around - Instrumental Version - Eldar Kedem

Inside the former 19th centre post office is cosy, with rustic furniture, exposed brick fireplaces and low beam ceilings. It feels like you have time travelled when entering.

The garden is simply magical. We were led to our table underneath a sky of lilac thanks to the wisteria tree above. Local plant nursery, Hortus Loci, of Chelsea Flower Show fame, is responsible for bringing the garden to its blooming best.

It's simply gorgeous sitting there under the blue sky, looking out onto the Hampshire countryside accompanied by the smell of beautiful fresh flowers.

To begin with, we went for the Japanese Pancake with crispy duck (£11) and a crispy potato-wrapped egg (£9.50). 

It's safe to say our meal started strong. 

SEE MORE: The Mutton in Hook wins big at Muddy Stiletto awards

Basingstoke Gazette: The delicious starters The delicious starters (Image: Newsquest)

Both plates were full of flavour and textures that we couldn't help but drool over. The asparagus salad and pickled radish were particularly delicious with the potato-wrapped egg. 

As it was a Sunday, we couldn't resist opting for a roast dinner each. My partner chose the beef rump (£26) while I went for the roasted butternut squash (£21).

I strongly believe that a good roast dinner can be judged on the quality of the Yorkshire pudding. The Mutton did not disappoint as their Yorkshire pudding was huge and fluffy. Delicious. 

Basingstoke Gazette: We're still dreaming of this roast dinnerWe're still dreaming of this roast dinner (Image: Newsquest)As well as our mains, we were served roast potatoes and a plate of vegetables including tender carrots and flavourful cabbage. 

My butternut squash was seasoned perfectly and also came with grilled broccoli which was deliciously smoked. My partner assures me the meat was flavourful, tender and very fresh. 

All in all, a cracking roast dinner. 

Somehow we weren't bursting out of our jeans and even had room for pudding. 

Basingstoke Gazette: The perfect sweet treat to end the afternoonThe perfect sweet treat to end the afternoon (Image: Newsquest)I couldn't resist the white chocolate and passionfruit ‘cheesecake’ and my partner opted for three scoops of cookie dough ice cream, which is made on-site at the pub.

My cheesecake arrived deconstructed which was a surprise, but it didn't take away from the deliciously sweet flavour paired with the tart passionfruit. 

Luckily, the final course wasn't too heavy and it was the perfect sweet treat to end the meal. 

It's safe to say The Mutton is a must this summer. The garden is simply beautiful, and the food is delicious too. 

I cannot wait to return on another warm, sunny afternoon.