Visited February 2003

On a wet day at the end of February it was lovely to walk into this warm & welcoming pub!  The first thing you see is a very large roaring log  fire, both the look & smell of it were gorgeous.  Above it is written the maxim "A contented mind is a continual feast".  Very profound!

The attractive decor is typical "oldie worldie" English pub but as it has all just been  refurbished  everything looks very fresh & clean.  We sat in the non smoking restaurant area, I believe that the other side of the bar is more of a pub atmosphere.  It was very busy & if you want to eat during the classic lunch time I would recommend booking but their extensive menu is served all day.

There were 6 of us & we started a tab.  They didn't insist on us leaving a credit card behind the bar which was a nice change.  We ordered a bottle of house white (very palatable & only £9.95), some soft drinks & a large jug of tap water.  They insisted on bringing it to our table along with ice bucket & the correct number of glasses for water & wine.  This is worth a comment because it doesn't happen very often especially when served with a smile!  All the staff were very charming & efficient.

Prices for our choices of main course varied between £6.95-£9.75.  Two of us had the Wholetail Scampi & chips.  Wonderful plumptious scampi covered in very crispy batter and the best chips I can remember!  Other choices, Oriental Prawn Fish Cakes, Whole Sea Bass in Coriander, Lime & Garlic Marinade, Minted Lamb Pie, & Cheesy Leek & Potato Bake.  All were enthused over & enjoyed except The Bake which was considered a little bland.  All were served with a choice of either chips or new potatoes, salad (crunchy) or vegetables (very fresh).  Some of us were piggish (me included) & had a pud!  Well worth it as I had Gooseberry Crumble, yummy, others had Raspberry Sorbet & Crème Brulee.  All puds £3.25 & served with a choice of cream, ice cream or custard.

Will definitely revisit!

Cost:  including tip & a second bottle of wine, £ £ £

Yummy Factor 9/10

Report CJ