COMBINING traditional pub values with a modern twist, the Pig on the Hill could be a glimpse of the future.

The bright, lively and intelligent drinking and dining concept has emerged from the ashes of a shuttered-up boozer in Old Town.

The management team, which took over in June 2010, has held sway with a mix of homemade food, real ales and live music.

British bangers and gourmet fish pies have taken their place alongside real ales, including the Pig on the Hill’s eponymous brew.

It is unrecognisable from the Piper’s Arms, which shut in 2009, and an example of the ambition that still resides within the trade.

Sous chef Gareth Kissane said: “We wanted to establish a traditional pub with excellence in all areas.

“The pub has got personality and we cater for people from all walks of life. We host private parties, business meetings and conferences in an upstairs area and have a lot of young people in who enjoy trying the real ales.

“We want to take things on further and build on what we’ve got here.”

The food, which has attracted rave reviews on Tripadvisor, has taken off to the point where booking is essential on Sundays.

Choices include the roast rump of 28-day hung prime British beef with Yorkshire pudding, pan gravy and fresh horse radish.

Lunch options include fish cakes packed with fresh sea food and freshly-cut sandwiches. It comes from a kitchen team versed to a high level, which includes Mr Kissane’s 20 years’ experience of working in pubs and restaurants, including on the Strand.

The pub has refused to cut prices by scrimping on quality, even though you can find menu options to pair with a few drinks for under £20.

“The food is traditional British food with a modern twist,” Mr Kissane said.

The pub, in Devizes Road, has planning approval for a conservatory, which will accommodate another 50 covers.

The concept is about to be taken on even further, though Mr Kissane is keeping the details close to his chest for now.

Manager Craig Lach said: “We had some teething problems in the first year but now we are going where we want to go. It’s a relaxed, friendly pub where people can enjoy the food, watch live sports or enjoy the live music.”

The Pig on the Hill is the last pub to feature for Community Pubs Month, run by the Adver in conjunction with the local Campaign for Real Ale branch to promote the best venues in the area.