BITE user comments - ButchEgg
Comments by ButchEgg
Well I guess you can't please everybody. WE wandered in here on saturday to go the toilet! Had a drink while I waited for my wife and immediately noticed how warm it was compared to the day outside. A big open plan pub with a fire at one end. Most of the tables were taken and food was served until 9pm. Had half pint of Directors and a full pint of Youngs Special. Not a lover of Youngs beers as they generally don't do anything over 4.5%. However, I enjoyed what I had and even stopped for half chicken and chips and the 6oz burger and chips. Perfectly ok and my wife even remarked she'd like to come in again. It's true, there were blokes at one end cheering on the rugby whilst at the other end horse racing took centre stage. But it was all good humoured and I'd be quite happy to pop in on my own should I be in the area agaIn.
18 Nov 2012 16:23
The Cricketers Inn, Westcliff on Sea
Interesting comment from the last reviewer. I visited here on tuesday 24th July around 9.40 and had a pint that was sadly on the turn - just. The clip was turned round when I went back to try a half of Abbot which was superb. I hadn't been in for around 20 years having moved away so was a little disappointed. The pub interior is decidedly upmarket with large patio doors that opened out onto the street as it was a very warm evening.
However, this visit hasn't put me off as I know the pub has a good track record for real ales so will reserve my rating for the next visit.
26 Jul 2012 13:46
I've visited about 6 times in the last year and sampled a good range of their beer and some of the smaller meals on offer. In fact it's a place we regularly head for to see my friend off at Kings X. We like it and regularly spend up to 2 hours in here. Friday nights are heaving with commuters but I've always liked the friendly atmosphere. The food prices are, in some cases, cheaper than other Fullers pubs in the area. This is quite surprising. Also they do a good range of ales including Bengal Lancer which is not always available on draft. Also handy for the 214 bus back to L'pool St after a good night out.
7 Jul 2012 13:50
I've been coming here albeit infrequently for around 25 years. Nothing seems to have changed in that time - not even the landlord. An excellent choice of ever changing real ales kept to perfection. So quiet here - you're practically in the middle of nowhere. If I had one gripe at all - the landlord is not a people person and looks away if he doesn't know you. I guess that can be forgiven when tested against the quality of the beers.
28 Jun 2012 10:42
Now firstly, this pub is NOT in Chelmsford! It's about 10 miles down the old A130 now the A1245. Pub specialises in quality food and has a separate restaurant but you can easily eat in the large long bar area. The beer choice is three real ales - usually Brewers Gold, Greene King IPA and a low gravity guest. Never a bad pint in here or a bad meal either.
Two comments - the layout is a little unusual. Because of the way the tables and chairs are positioned it can be difficult to find a seat when a couple occupy many of the tables for 6/8. Also, the pub needs a stronger beer - 4.5 - 5.00 as the existing ones are all pretty much of a muchness. That said, we've visited many times in the last 8 years or so and count ourselves as regulars. We never stay long due to the beer choice which is a shame.
27 Jun 2012 14:16
Broads Haven Tavern, Potter Heigham
Stumbled upon this pub by chance looking for refreshments on the way to North Norfolk. Right by part of the Broads hence the name. The pub is a haven of large rooms with a bar at the front giving the feel of a clubhouse. Whilst this put me off at first I then tried a half of Adnams Ghostship. This, to me, was a perfect pint. I don't usually drink on long journeys but I had to have a pint of this and it was superb.
Followed it with the steak pie which went down very well - a nice large portion - not a stew in a dish. My wife stuck to her salad.
An unusual setting for a pub - not exactly in the country as it's surrounded by similar buildings giving the feel of a industrial unit. But if you can forgive that, then it's definately worth the visit.
27 Jun 2012 14:06
Ate here on monday night. Place was doing a good trade. 2 real ales on offer - London Glory and a Green King "guest". Beer was �3.40, a bit pricey and although you're asked to leave a credit card behind the bar to open a tab you do get your own key as it's locked in a safe! Very unusual. Food was very nice. I chose the steak and kidney pie - a proper pie, not a stew in a dish. This was available in a generous portion (as an option) for around �11.95. Very pricey but you should have seen the size of it.
The pub has the feel of a clubhouse, surrounded by caravans at the rear. This is ok by me but it put my wife off as it didn't have a cosy feel. Disappointed with the beer choice overall but impressed by the enthusiasm of the landlord who has been here for over 20 years.
27 Jun 2012 13:54
I stayed the night nearby on business and walked to the pub on the recommendation of 2 Camra friends. Frankly, it didn't look too inviting plus the fact I was on my own. However, nothing ventured nothing gained, I entered the barge and opened the glass door to go downstairs. I hadn't realised how large the interior might be. Plenty of space to accommodate the 12 cask ales plus all the usual other beers. Tried an Oakham ale too start with ands was so imprfessed with the quality - straight out of the barrel this one - that I stayed for a few more. I arrived at 6.40 and was still there at last orders at 10.55. I don't think I tried the same beer twice. There was a quiz night that thursday and whilst not what I like the management of this place really keep the atmosphere going. I also had a meal in the upstairs Thai restaurant and whilst a bit pricey it all added to the evenings entertainment.
My only regret is that I live 110 miles away from here but I will be back. Superb ales and friendly efficient service. Get yourself down there!
11 May 2012 17:32
Update to my posting of 3rd July last year.
I find it very disconcerting going into any pub, seeing a range of around 5 ales including a guest and then being told only one - the weakest - was on! No attempt was made to turn round the clips, presumably management policy to show what WOULD have been on etc etc. A poor finish to my day out which sent me scuttling across the road to the White Hart. Will have to consider this more thoroughly when deciding where to go in future.
25 Mar 2012 23:01
Popped in here last Sunday for 2 pints. Surprisingly no Spitfire or Masterbrew but had the guest "Spring Ale"? Beer was highly enjoyable. Noticed the pub was full of men mainly due to 2 separate football matches being shown on the 2 TV sets. Didn't interfere with our talking or drinking. Some interesting looking food coming out if a little pricey.
25 Mar 2012 22:51
This pub has to be seen to be believed. It's grand enough when you walk in but looking from the back to the front you're presented with the balcony sprinkled with mannequins and a large stage full of seating.
Had a New years meal in here for four and enough beer and spirits to keep us going for a few days. Had 2 roasts, a lasagne and a salmon - great stuff. The beer was superb and the staff were up for a friendly chat. I suspect we saw it in it's best light on a quieter day.
We'll certainly return to this one. Most impressed.
2 Jan 2012 13:37
The Donkey and Buskins, Layer de la Haye
This had been on my list of pubs to visit for a number of years and we finally managed a trip ot two here in the autumn. A very attractive looking pub just on the borders of the village with a large car park. A good selection of ales, some local to the area. Very friendly service from the young staff makes you feel really welcome. The pub itself is split into various rooms which makes it quite intimate.
We ate on both occasions which, in my opinion, was quite expensive for what it was. The first time they still had a sunday roast (very pleased to have this bearing in mind it was around 6pm). Despite advertising that they had a new chef the food was all pretty average and nothing special - not enough to make you want to go back just for this.
This place excels in it's beers which is what this website is all about. A lovely place to while away a few hours in summer. When I last passed here on a sunday in November there was a sign outside saying "Closed - sorry". Hopefully that was a blip and we are back up and running
29 Dec 2011 13:45
The Layer Fox, Layer de la Haye
Visited about 3 times during the autumn and happy to return on each occasion. Four good beers on including the aforementioned Red Fox beers and a couple of others rarely seen for the area. Beers now �3.20 a pint. The food is first class although some is outstanding. The ham, eggs and chips was the largest I'd come across and presented unconventionally. I was told that the food is bought from the local butcher and you can certainly taste the difference. Sunday lunch is well worth a look.
The most interesting feature is the split level. Upstairs is a large area containing a large sofa but plenty of more conventional tables. Very friendly service - remembered on subsequent visits. This is the type of place I wish I lived nearer to. Far enough away from Colchester to remain unspoilt.
29 Dec 2011 13:29
I have to agree with anon10. This is probably the best Wetherspoons we've visited both in surroundings and food. There's a lovely patio area right at the back with lots of trees in the distance and the atmosphere last sunday was releaxed and friendly. The food was hot and stayed hot throughout the meal - unlike others we've visited.
The staff - in particular the duty manager - were very friendly and happy to talk through the choice of beers which, by the way, were excellent.
We were here for sunday lunch at 4pm and we'll make this one of our regular haunts.
15 Sep 2011 13:41
The Prince of Wales, Stow Maries
I hadn't been back to the pub for a number of years but I'm pleased to say all was the same since my last visit. Beers at �3 a pint - plenty of choice and the food was superb. The seating leaves a lot to be desired and I sat on 3 until |I found one that was comfortable. My wife suggested the visit which was all the more surprising as she never liked the place as we used to sit in the family area where the front door is always kept open. However, she's now changed her mind and I forsee many happy visits to come.
15 Sep 2011 13:34
Had my third visit there last night. Pub can be heaving on a friday but wednesday night was very comfortable at 8pm. Had the Discovery and ESB. Surprised to see the latter served in an ordinary glass and not the special glass reserved for ESB but the quality was superb as usual. Food is the standard Fullers menu (having just eaten at the Mad Hatter we compared menus).
The drinks are expensive. Discovery �3.75 a pint and ESB �3.95. The Bus No 8 to Liverpool Street stops opposite so I was back on the train within 30 minutes. Definately recommended.
25 Aug 2011 14:16
The Marlborough Head, Rochford
This pub is the nearest to the station and probably has the lowest ceiling of all the local pubs. This gives it a particularly cosy feel and it can get very crowded on friday nights. Tends to attract the younger crowd with it's live music and young bar staff but none-the-less a mixed crowd can usually be expected. The beer is always OK - real ale usually from a choice of about 3 - and the pub has a lovely garden which is well hidden from the main road. I think I've underestimated this pub over the years and will make the effort to use it more frequently.
31 Jul 2011 13:37
I've been here about 4 times despite drinking in Rochford for 30 years. As previously said, there's a very small bar - a bit too small considering bands play here. Friendly staff - but the beer leaves a lot to be desired. On my last visit I had a pint of Bass and it tasted quite lifeless - little body to it and difficult to finish. I've tried other beers here and they've been better but my point is a lack of consistency.
For that reason, I'll reserve my judgement until I've had a couple more visits.
31 Jul 2011 12:56
No comments for 5 years? Well let me change all that.
My wife and I first came here some years ago when the pub first became an Ember Inn. We thoroughly enjoyed our pies which were proper pies completely encased in pastry and NOT a stew in a dish so favoured by other pub s I've reviewed elsewhere. At that stage it would have been a 9 but we didn't return due to their child policy - no under 14's - which is still the case now. We've moved on and our daughter will be shortly! So we've returned some 6 times in the last 2 months.
Food is extremely reasonably priced and if you choose well (go on - have the pie, it's still on) then you can get a filling and rewarding meal.
The beer selection borders on excellent with a guarantee that if it's not right they'll change it! Prices are less than I pay elsewhere, under �3 in some cases. Adnams Broadside is usually on (hope you're reading this Andrew) and a full range from weak to strong (usually about 4). The pub has a number of rooms all connected and pleasant staff. A request to wipe our table down was done promptly by a guy who I suspect is at the nearby Uni. Sorry this goes on a bit but we've been here a number of times and this is a fair summary of our experiences to date. The beer is superb and if this is typical of the Ember chain then I'm a fan.
17 Jul 2011 22:49
The Liberty Bounds, Tower Hill
I popped in here with a friend a few saturdays ago in between thunderstorms. We got a seat upstairs (at 12.15) with no trouble and I admit we just planned to eat here. Ordered our food and it arrived within 7 minutes. I was astounded and although the drinks are more expensive than out of town sites I can confirm that the beer is well up to standard. ()Have drank here before). A really cheap and filling meal costing us just over �11.
A good place to start off or finish if arriving at Fenchurch Street.
17 Jul 2011 22:22
The Three Compasses, Chelmsford
I've been a regular here for the last 2 years and possibly longer. Places like this don't generally exist anymore which is why I'm prepared to travel 11 miles to get here. Always a seat on a friday and saturday night and a pleasant welcome from a landlady who's been here 40 years. The staff stay pretty much the same and this adds to thwe wArm atmosphere.
Beer comes in the form of Green King IPA (possibly may be changing?) and Sharps Doom Bar. Always a good pint and happily changed if not quite right. Food at times (best to ring first) is limited but available as a bonus rather than the raison d'etre.
Never ever any trouble here. The landlady is just that - a true publican in every sense of the word.
See you next week!
17 Jul 2011 15:35
Visited on the last two saturdays (18th & 25th June). My Dad used to show me the outside of this pub when I was a boy but I'd never visited. That is until now - some 45 years later. I loved it! Very busy bar but pleased it was open on a saturday. Not cheap - Youngs special and a J20 �5.85 but on both occasions the beer and atmosphere was superb. Friendly staff and an excellent duty manager who remembered my drinks each time despite the crowds. Food looked good so perhaps next time. Pub added to my portfolio. Thanks Dad.
3 Jul 2011 12:55
I'm a little concerned at what is happening here. I'm a fairly regular visitor often starting my friday sessions here before going to Rochford. There's been a change to the management which some would welcome. BUT ..... this has resulted in disco music on several nights of the week. The place is so noisy that there is a danger of driving the older patrons away. Plus the friday drunks who stand at the rear of the bar physically jumping up and down to the music.
Needs to be swiftly nipped in the bud before the place joins others in the area and closes down. I for one DON'T want that to happen.
3 Jul 2011 12:39
Popped in here last Sunday afternoon - place having been recommended last year.
I was surprised how small it was. Inside to the left is a small restaurant area. We sat by the window which had excellent views up the slope into Ongar itself. There was a choice of only one roast (it was 4pm) the pork. Nicely presented with superb roast potatoes for �7.45. My wife had the lasagne. Beers were unfortunately a choice of two - adnams and Green King so nothing over 3.7%. In front of the main bar is a small "snug" area which was being used for after dinner drinks. One family filled this area on the day we visited. The bar itself is tiny but there is another bar through a door round the back.
This place has great character and we will return to try other items on the menu in the coming months. Beer choice could do with a lift by the inclusion of a stronger beer.
8 Jun 2011 07:20
I haven't revisited yet and doubt that I will.
On saturday night, a man was about to board my bus at 11.20pm outside the pub and was followed on by a guy looking for a fight. The assailant was pushed back off the bus a couple of times by the victim and the driver took the opportunity to drive off fast. The assailant bashed the windows in annoyance that his victim escaped so may have retreated back to the pub to fight somewhere there! Luckily the driver said that the incident had been captured on the bus CCTV so the police will no doubt be making a visit very shortly with a photofit.
Would never have happened in Ian's time here so I agree with Pondland99.
6 Jun 2011 13:18
The White Hart Inn, Margaretting Tye
Yes agree with the previous reviewers. The beer is excellent. There's a wide choice although nothing over 4.7% last saturday. Plentry of bottled beers too. The beer is served direct from the cask out back. Can get very busy and I wonder where drinkers are supposed to sit without eating? We got the last table for two right by the bar at 7.15. The food, we thought, was a little disappointing and expensive. The Hunters chicken was small and on the tough side whilst my steak and ale pie - the chefs signature dish - had a very high crust but was essentially a small stew in a dish. You can't beat proper pies cut from a baking tin! Both dishes were around �9 - �10. Overall, a great place for a drink if you don't mind sitting outside.
23 May 2011 16:33
I've eaten here at lunchtime a couple of times in the last year. Since the comments below were added the pub has been taken over by new landlords and what a difference. The old furniture in the "snug" has been ripped out and replaced with contemporary tables and chairs providing more space. The lunchtime menu is varied and not expensive and the steak pie was cooked to perfection. The drinks - usually a choice of 3 real ales can be expensive - over �3.
My only criticism is that on our two visits my wife had the ploughmans which came on a wooden board - excellent presentation - but the second time it was a shadow of the first vist. The apple had gone for a start. If this place wants to take a place as a food pub then it must at least be consistent. Evening meals are too pricy and there are far better pubs if you want to eat at restaurant prices. Overall, well on the way to overcoming shortcomings of previous owners but with a bit more attention to detail
14 Feb 2011 13:52
The Hung, Drawn and Quartered, Tower Hill
Chanced upon this pub one Sunday afternoon on a walk from Tower Hill. Excellent Fullers pub with the full range of their ales plus on the day Bengal Lancer. Had an excellent 2 pints. Place is a little on the small side with not that many seats so we had to stand up for a while. Most impressed and added to the crawl. NOTE: Pub can close (and did) at 6pm on Sundays in winter.
14 Feb 2011 13:43
I've visited here on and off for many years but have never regarded it as a "proper" pub. A friend has recently reintroduced me to the place and he insists we come here because it sells Adnams Broadside. On a recent visit it also had Wells Bombardier and Green King IPA.
Now there's nothing fundamentally wrong with the beer. It's the right temperature, good choice and the pub is warm, friendly and spacious. But it just doesn't taste right! I tried the Bombardier and the Broadside and whilst it was full bodied it seemed to have a quality that made it quite hard to drink. I must admit I can't pin it down as the beer wasn't vinegary but both beers had the same underlying flavour. My friend loved it so it must be me - but I'm not so sure. I'd welcome any other comments on here - am I right?
14 Jan 2011 12:56
Well we did go back in August and had a few beers and a meal. A further small price increase was noticed and this time served by the governor no less! Unusual to be served by a waiter in shorts and flipflops but he seemed tio be enjoying himself chatting up the party of girls in there that night. Still I wasn't dressed much better and it made me feel at home.
The village is beautifuland on the river Nene(?). Will return yet again but will give the Travelodge a miss - hopeless!
25 Oct 2010 00:09
The Lord Aberconway, Liverpool Street
fancied a change on friday night so popped in here on friday about 9pm. This is probably the best time to visit as there was plenty olf room although there were the left overs of others who clearly had been drinking since 5pm. Whist clearing glasses etc the duty manager was simply pushing them gently out of the way!
Doom bar at �2.65 tonight was very tempting and a pint of Punk IPA (not sure of the brewer) but at 6% was superb - �3.15.
I'm happy to add this one to my list of pubs in this area.
17 Oct 2010 16:09
Went in here yesterday afternoon (saturday). Noticed the pub on the way in to Norwich. After a long walk we popped in and went upstairs to the larger area.
Beer was excellent, food looked good but unfortunately we were unable to order. By 2.45 there was still an hours wait and the place was so dirty that we couldn't face it. We'll stick to our Wetherspoons in Rayleigh - city centre pubs are not our ideal choice.
19 Sep 2010 16:05
My family used to travel 40 miles to visit here and stop and have a meal before the drive back through the Dartford Tunnel. One of the things we liked was the certainty of having a good meal and a nice range of real ales before heading back. Now I'm reading that sometimes the food is on .... sometimes it isn't. There's no feedback on here to say how good or bad the food is. If the landlord can post more practical information on here such as what time food is served, link to a sample menu and details of the beers etc then I might well be tempted back. Marketing may well be the answer here looking at the positive rather than the negative. Can I be tempted back to my 80 mile round trip? It's up to you.
14 Sep 2010 13:28
Has this pub reopened yet? If so the new owners have gone very quiet and I can find nothing updated onb any website?
27 Aug 2010 13:16
I phoned this pub yesterday to book a table for saturday and was told it had closed! I was totally shocked and felt it inappropriate to ask what had happened.
Can anyone offer information on how long it's been shut, on the market etc etc.
My forthcoming weekend break was to have been based around our visit so I'm very saddened.
27 Aug 2010 13:03
The Shepherd and Dog, Ballards Gore
Things are really looking up at this pub which oddly enough lacks any interest on this website despite its superb collection of real ales. Now Kim is front of house, the place has taken on a more friendly feel and efforts are being made for special nights - cheap beer, discounted food and so forth. The owner is really making an effort to lift things here and this deserves recognition. it's in the middle of nowhere but give it a go - you won't regret it.
3 Jul 2010 19:57
Good luck to Ian who left here last Sunday. Pub was closed the following day and last week but we hear a local lass may be opening the doors from Monday 5th July.
Shepherd Neame haven't let the grass grow under their feet on this one and we hope she does well. Whether the bands will be as prolific as before remains to be seen.
3 Jul 2010 19:49
The second of our pubs visited early evening on Monday 17th. This, I felt, was more of the traditional pub feel. Big long wooden bar with a friendly welcome.
Only one real ale available - the Courage best. Camden is more of a youngs persons town and, I guess, they're not beer drinkers! Great shame as the beer was first class and I noticed that the food was more realistically priced than others around the town - only available until around 5pm though. My wife's coffee wasn't very warm but this is a general problem with most pubs even those with restaurants! Another place I'd revist and probably the only one of the 3 that I'd feel comfortable in on my own.
20 May 2010 11:42
This was the third and last pub we visited on our trip. Sad to note only one real ale - Adnams - despite there being lots of choice for everything else. Very noisey - lots of loud music but it seemed to add to the atmosphere I thought. Seemed like a friendly bunch of people - you can't help get in eachothers way here due to the layout of the tables and chairs etc.
I passed these comments onto my wife when we left but she disagreed. Apparently there was a lot of congealed blood on the walls of the ladies toilets which she found (rightly) very off-putting. marked down mainly due to the lack of real ale - nice as it was!
20 May 2010 11:17
Started off in here in what turned out to be a mini pub crawl. This was the nicest of the 3 we tried. It was monday night at 6.30 Climbed up on a bar stool by the window facing all the traffic. fascinating place to observe being right on the corner of 4 roads. Also pleased with the beer choice. The choice was Youngs or Bombardier - better than the other places we tried. The Bombardier was absolutely fine - had two of those. Very expensive but whatr do you expect? It was on a par with the others we visited and by far the best. On our return to the station much later we noticed that the lights were very dim and the place had taken on a much more relaxed approach. Didn't have time to pop back in but would be happy to go back some other time.
20 May 2010 11:10
Went there with a friend on friday lunchtime. Spacious pub with an area at the front ideal (but not dedicated) to dining. Very reasonably priced menu with dishes from around �6.95 upwards. Went back in the evening for an hour and tried the Green King IPA and the Speckled Hen. Well kept beer and still room to sit down.
Noticed two large parties came in with a couple of children. No kids after 8 apparently which is a shame as they were about 15 and there were lots of adults as well. All that lost trade.
Altogether, a good experience.
16 May 2010 11:05
I'd never come across this pub before as it's in something resembling a cul-de-sac. However, a colleague recommended it so I went looking for it. The place was packed - a football match showing on the TV. Mainly, the place was full of office workers even at 8pm but it was hardly surprising. Some excellent choices of real ale - in the main the ones noted in previous comments. Felt very much at home here and lingered over two pints. When I left I was amazed that the road was so quiet despite seeing Liverpool St Station in the distance. A good find.
1 Apr 2010 12:33
The Hamilton Hall, Liverpool Street
I can see why it's referred to as a "hall". The decoration is something to be admired - in fact it's quite beautiful in parts, paintings etc. The beer choice was certainly ok for me. had 2 pints of Titanic.
Very noisy as those voices echo around the room. No trouble here of any description and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. I'll look in again.
1 Apr 2010 12:25
I entirely agree with Poundland99. This is the second visit I've had spoilt by these "customers" who are no doubt banned from the other pubs. Needs a male presence to sort them out - clearly that was lacking last night.
6 Mar 2010 17:10
We went there on a mid week break to the area and stayed at the adjacent Travelodge. Popped into the bar around 10.15. Place was nearly empty despite the switching on of the xmas lights at Springfields. Too late for the food but the beer was excellent. Place specialises in local brews and no sparklers on the pumps either - unusual up here. Very, VERY friendly service and lots of space between the tables/ Possible to have a quiet conversation. Would certainly go in again - well done.
22 Nov 2009 16:10
I went in last night. There seems to be a vast amount of space by the bar area - presumably for high number of standees after work. Not so busy last night. There were quite a high number of pumps for real ale but at least 4 had Green King IPA and the other 4 had London Pride. �3.50 a pint - the most expensive of the evening. It was fine, by the way. Noticed someone eating the Half Roast Chicken - that looked plentiful and made me feel hungry. The menu was typical pub grub but about �2 more expensive per dish than the Hornimans at Hayes up the road.
The toilets were interesting. I could just about get in the gents cubicle with my briefcase.
All in all an interesting pub but won't add it to my trail. It looks better from the outside than in.
11 Nov 2009 14:20
We went there by chance. Having travelled down from Bedford we'd had nothing to eat at all and we were looking for a good old fashioned pub lunch. Knowing the Hatfield Heath area we chanced upon the Chequers as it looked like a pub. See picture coming soon. On entering the pub you feel like you're in a bistro/wine bar. At the back is a superb looking restaurant and I then felt that this was going to cost me more than �20 (my budget for a luinch for 3). Had a nice half of Volcano followed by Speckled Hen. The we looked at the menu. The prices were as stated by the previous reviewer - I believe the steak pie was something like �18.95. There's a renowned restaurant in Covent garden that charges about �4 less than this. Our first reaction was to get up and leave but it was our fault. Fortunately, the pub does a saturday brunch. Basically this is a breakfast fry up for �8.95. My daughter and I had this whilst my wife had the "gourmet burger" for �12.95. It tasted ...... like a burger. Fries looked excellent.
The whole experience if we had been looking for a gastro pub probably couldn't be faulted BUT I really do think that places like this should be made to display their menus in the window so you can make the choice before you go in. Especially when you see how "pub like" the place is. In fairness, I'll not rate this pub as if you choose to spend �70 at lunchtime (easily done here) then that's up to you.
Otherwise, no problem.
1 Nov 2009 14:01
A down to earth no frills pub with an eating area in the lounge on the right. I enjoyed 3 pints of Batemans which were excellent and this autumn the oub are doing a promotion - 50p off all draught beers/lagers. My daughter and I had the rib/chicken combo with wedges - �6.95 and my wife the salmon - I think. The food was excellent and service the same. They have a fish & chip night for �5 and a curry night for the same. Very comfortable place and we'd certainly visit again.
1 Nov 2009 13:49
Our experience was not so favourable. We found the whole evening extremely expensive and were overcharged at the end.
The soup was superb - full marks here. My daughter and I had the chicken korma. You could smell it when you entered the pub so loving curry we ordered it. Unfortunately there was little taste. Lots of meat but my wife tried it as well and agreed with us. There are very few non-indian chefs that can do a good curry and sadly this is true here. The chicken was spicey but it certainly wasn't korma. My wife had the salmon - again in a sauce that was runny and had little taste. The beer appeared to be from a choice of two - Courage Best and Youngs. This was at least �3 a pint but tasted fine.
Then I got the bill - �70+. Drinks �21.70 for 3 pints and a coke. How can this be? Queried this at the bar and some other drinks had crept in from another table. This was gladly removed. However, it added insult to injury when compared to the food experience. The pubs we visit on our breaks are thoroughly researched before visiting especially when travelling over 70 miles in this case. I've had 2 days to think about this and frankly we wish we hadn't bothered. Sorry.
1 Nov 2009 13:39
My friend has been going on about this place for months and I finally met him in London last thursday for a visit. Arrived at 5.10 and left at 9.10. What a session! I think I tried about 5 different real ales before starting on my favourites so far. Noticed a range of good priced sandwiches plus some pizzas at �6. The place was very busy and well deserved so as well. Considering only two people serving we didn't have to wait either. The landlord isn't afraid to get his hands dirty and worked hard with his other member of staff all evening. Loved it and I'm sure you will too.
18 Oct 2009 14:08
I popped in here on my mini crawl from the Embankment to Fenchurch Street. This was the most expensive pub we went in. Two pints for over �7. That said we only had the one and sat outside overlooking the river. As we were being tourists ourselves for the day (something I've never done) I didn't begrudge it but wouldn't rush back.
Food looked interesting - may go back next summer.
8 Oct 2009 15:32
The Horniman at Hays, Southwark
Popped in here for a half on the way back to Fenchurch St. Was rather taken with the place and vowed to return sometime soon. Good choice of ales although a number were unavailable on a busy sunday afternoon. Will try the food next time.
8 Oct 2009 15:20
I'm pleased to report that the Bull is still alive and well following my entry of 13th April but you wouldn't think so reading some of the other reports. We arrived at 7.45 after getting lost again - coming from the other direction this time. We were greeted by the owner and after a brief discussion on where we wanted to sit he whisked me behind the bar - the quickest route to the other saloon! My daughter and I had the creamy chicken curry - only �6 and quite delicious. Plenty of it too. My wife had the ploughmans. This pub is obviously in competition with the Rose & Crown in Kent (my only other 10) as the salad was enormous. A mountain of cheese and more grapes than Tesco's. As to the drinks, well I was spoiled for choice. Had a couple of pints of Butt's and was only charged for two. Came clean on that one as I'd had a third of something else.
The picture of this pub can never do it justice. There are currently renovations going on with lots of scaffolding about but if you want good food, superb real ale and nice service (we found it very efficient) then this place is it! Thanks for the free Wifi and we left to get lost on the way back to Newbury. Perhaps we'll stay here next time?
31 Aug 2009 17:07
It's always nice to be able to eat in the bar of a pub and not some fancy restaurant. Clearly food is a big thing here but you can have anything in the evening from baguettes to steaks to ploughmans. I had the large scampi and chips, my wife - the salmon as usual - a truly chunky piece as well, and my daughter the bacon bagutte with a welcome side salad. Nice choice of real ales - can't remember the names but well kept. Didn't hang about as friday night was obviously locals night but a proper village pub this one. Liked it.
31 Aug 2009 16:53
The Borough Hotel, Southend on Sea
I wandered in as it had been recommended by a CAMRA friend and I had missed my bus. Friday night is obviously music night and you couldn't hear yourself think in there. However, as music goes they were very accomplished and the prospect of going anywhere else for an hour was slim.
The pub? Oh yes - I liked it. Had a pint of Timothy Taylors Landlord and 1.5 pints of Youngs ESB. Excellent. Bar staff were friendly and efficient and I would rather be in there than outside on the seafront on a friday night. Will definately go again but on a quieter night mid week.
19 Aug 2009 18:00
My wife and I stayed here well over 20 years ago and this was our first return visit. There were different faces and a pub face lift. Everything from my phone booking to the actual service was exceptionally friendly. The food was at the top end of our expectations both in price, choice and taste. I think every food taste must have been accounted for (but no curries I noticed). They even gave my daughter access to their wireless connection to the internet - unusual in privately owned pubs. We had the Steak and kidney pie, the beef lasagne (looked superb!) and the salmon. There were two real ales on - the Youngs Special and a local Sussex brew. I had a few pints of the Youngs and it was superb. No accommodation here at the moment but watch this space.
All in all - excellent and I can see us popping down here from time to time to have more of the same.
10 Aug 2009 13:08
We visited on July 31st and I'm pleased to say all was well with both the food and the drinks. The food was quite limited in choice and my wifes selection was unavailable. However, they made up for it by giving a generous discount on her second choice. Food was very good overall if a little pretentious and the beer was excellent. Rather noisy in the 3 eating rooms. A large party came in and started shouting behind us. They were soon ushered away into their own room by the organised staff.
Very friendly bar staff - I told him he'd got a 9 - and here it is!
4 Aug 2009 11:33
Following these reviews and the appearance in the Good Beer Guide I had to try it. Went in last night to eat and found the food finishes at 7pm. No problem we had 15 minutes to order. Had the scampi, prawn salad, a bacon baguette and a toasted bacon sandwich. Lots of prawns, the biggest toastie we've seen and large pieces of scampi at very reasonable prices. Had the Westerhams 7X. This beer is never seen outside Kent (not Essex anyway) and was absolutely superb. Coupled with the Sharps Doombar the whole experience was nothing short of excellent. Immediately situated opposite the primary school with dozens of pictures of the village from early last century. My only problem was trying to get back through the tunnel after 8.30 when the authorities create an artificial traffic jam by closing one of them off. Then a car broke down - GREAT!
My problem - we'll be back soon - it doesn't get better than this!
21 Jun 2009 12:06
I went in to seek refuge from the heat in Oxford Street last friday expecting it to be packed (2.30). Amazingly there was plenty of room and it was lovely to sit down after being in the record shops. Had the St Austel Tribute. Surprised to find it there and i wasn't disappointed. Remember the pub from my many trips but never been in. I'm glad I did!
3 Jun 2009 11:38
The Marquis of Granby, Cambridge Circus
Popped in here for an hour last friday afternoon. Boiling hot day and no seats available in the main bar. An upstairs (large) area was open and overlooked the Palace Theatre. Interesting just watching people. Had the Sharps Cornish Coaster which was on top form. Worth another look.
3 Jun 2009 11:29
Further to my last visit, things seem to have changed already. A new manager appears to be in post with more emphasis on the food. Menu much the same but a more professional approach. Between us we had the scampi and the Salmon. A most enjoyable meal - advised to order asap as a party of 10 were arriving. My wife likes it because she says it's cosy. Only problem is the parking otherwise excellent.
13 May 2009 18:01
The Halfway House, Southend on Sea
I try to pop in here on some fridays before meeting friends elsewhere. The beer range is quite good - usually 3 real ales on. Tried the food about 6 weeks ago. Mainly this is a carvery but it does have a limited bar menu which is not very adventurous. My wife found it difficult to find anything to her taste. I had the Jimmy's Farm sausages and mash (the waitress admitted they weren't from Jimmy's farm!) and my wife had the fish and chips. It was all very average and nothing to want us to eat there again. Carvery meals can be eaten in the bar but they're not a patch on the Toby offerings available elsewhere. Friendly efficient service but stick to the drinks.
4 May 2009 17:31
The Mad Hatter Hotel, Southwark
Working in London last tuesday I went in with a group of 8 colleagues from various Member States of the EU. Thinking it would take hours I ordered the ham, eggs and chips (�7) whilst others ordered a range of food from the interesting but standard Fullers menu. Amazingly it was all delivered within 15 minutes with apologies to me for the delay as I ordered last. I didn't drink that day, although others did. The pub had the full range of Fullers real ales and I can't wait to go back on a day off and try some of them. Food very acceptable all round and fairly priced, I thought.
4 May 2009 17:14
Had 2 hours in Cambridge on Friday 1st May. Met my friend who was a chef and went to the Granta. Wow - what a place. Joined a small queue at the bar for an excellent pint of real ale and sat on the balcony overlooking the river. This must be idyllic. It had taken me 7 hours to get here due to rail problems (as usual) but the visit made the trip worthwhile. Didn;'t eat! Didn't have time but the food coming out looked very nice. I have to confirm previous comments that there was a delay. 40 minutes was announced to several people ordering. Hardly surprising as we found the chef collecting glasses! My friend asked him why he was collecting glasses and said he wouldn't allow that if he worked for him! So you take your choice. I don't have any problem with the place but I can see why others might.
4 May 2009 16:20
I've visited 3 times in the last week mainly because I have CAMRA's �20 of vouchers for use over the year.
Last sunday and monday were perfect visits. Plenty of space, excellent beer and a meal on monday with the wife. Really changed my mind about these places. UNTIL the punch up on thursday night. A drunken lout in his 20's (?) jumping over the tables to land his fist in his victims face. The bar staff were amazing - not hesitating to deal with this rather frightening situation - all over in a matter of seconds. Soon ejected and back to normal. The question arises - are they used to dealing with this? There were a good couple of hundred people in here that night which is why I avoid town pubs
like Weatherspoons. I will go back but it will be early in the week after work. Judgement reserved on this occasion.
13 Apr 2009 13:56
Planned our evening here whilst staying in Reading for the night (Good Friday). The pubs website was very helpful and with comments from this page convinced us to go. I think (like Dudley Moore) I've found my 10! Had a reserved table in one of the small bars. Friday night was curry night (3 to choose from). �6 including a pint. This was too good to turn down so we had a relatively cheap evening. Superb real ales matched only by the excellent service (so friendly here). Even the backroom staff made a point of saying hello when they came into the bar. Got quite lost on the way here but wow - was it worth it! Yes - a 10 definately and well deserved. See you again soon.
13 Apr 2009 13:39
And this is the other one I went in on my evening in Manchester. I'm sure it wasn't called Yates and it had been taken over by someone else. Sadly no real ale - so straight out the door. Bought a bottle of Shepherd Neame (or two) from the en-site Sainsbury's and spent 4 hours in my room drinking it!
24 Mar 2009 12:31
yes I popped in last thursday as I didn't fancy going into the centre. Walked around looking for the real ales so walked right out again. The place looked very comfortable and not many there for a thursday night. Sad - I wish I read the previous review first.
24 Mar 2009 12:22
I popped in here last month on my evening out in Theydon Bois. Had intended to go to the loo and have a quick pint. 3 pints later and I was still there. You'll see from my other listings that I avoid town pubs but this one had some very interesting characters. Such as the city gent on the pull but the two girls weren't having any of it. There was a choice of about 6 real ales; I had the London Pride (think �2.65) and the Timothy Taylor Landlord (�2.90). There was a choice of pies of the day up on the specials board for those wishing to eat downstairs. Sadly, I had to leave eventually, forgot the name of the pub and spent a month tracking down friends who work in the city. Finally achieved this by returning last friday night - I couldn't even get to the bar. Loads of people drinking outside in really cold weather. Good luck to them. I'll pop in when the train is late - seems a good excuse.
24 Mar 2009 11:54
Visited on our weekend break to Newbury this weekend. Only 12 miles away in the Berkshire Hills there was a very warm welcome in this beautifully designed spacious pub. The menus are on chalk boards and ranged from Sausage of the day and Mash to Thai Chicken Curry through to Lamb Shank and the usual steaks etc. Desserts were home made at �4.95. Not the cheapest pub around but the chef here knows what he's doing and it was beautifully presented and extremely tasty. What a friendly place and even the kids had manners. My wife suggested it was like the Village of the Damned but I think she meant it in the nicest possible way. The beer was typical Green King stuff I'm afraid with Morlands Original and Abbot Ale - nothing in between that night. I had enough of them to keep me going for a day or two so I've no complaints here. I first came here 12 years ago and it's amazing how a place can change - for the better. If I lived here then I'd certainly be a regular.
Tried to take a picture without success but my next trip will be in a month or so and I'll take one in daylight. A good find. What are you waiting for?
16 Mar 2009 13:27
Went back here again some 18 months later. Pub doing a good trade. Food absolutely excellent. They's introduced a credit crunch menu - 2 selected dishes for �10. 2 of us had the ham, 2 eggs and chips. Beautiful thick ham cut from the bone and in plentiful supply. The chef was a lady in her 70's and boy was the food good! Excellent real ales served from the back room and a friendly dog who'd learnt how to unlock the bar hatch.
We were on our way to a certain pub in Mundon but we got to the door and it said no-one under the age of 18 after 7pm. Our daughter is 15 so we left. The pub appeared empty!
We'll be back to the Roundbush very shortly - families welcome and very informal. How could we have stayed away so long?
9 Mar 2009 12:00
Visited this pub last night with the family. Small car park but some parking on the road. Nice and warm with various smallish rooms - perfect for an more intimate evening. There is a larger dining area on the far left for those larger parties. The beer is mainly Shepherd Neame and very nice it was too. A friendly welcome from the guvnor who seemed to appreciate someone who liked his beer. Food was good. We had a chicken curry, cottage pie and a pasta dish from the specials board, all about �7 each. Noticed a particularly nice sausage and mash dish on another table which looked particularly impressive. Not the largest meals we've had locally but the choice also included burgers, a pie and various other tasty choices. All finished off with a limited range of desserts from �3.50. Definately worth a look if you can find the place - just off the main A414 at Danbury in a country lane. The rest is up to you!
1 Mar 2009 15:47
I've visited twice in the last two weeks. First I sat in the "locals bar" with the roaring fire (Feb 11th). Tried the Country Bitter - the strongest one on at 4.3%. Very pleasant. Then some sandwiches were put on the bar uneaten from a function earlier that afternoon. Very friendly service and made to feel welcome. So much so that 3 of us returned on Saturday 21st for dinner. The meals can be expensive but it's possible to have the Sausages and mash, Nut cutlet and Ham, eggs and chips for around �7 - �8. The service was friendly from young staff. Quite happy to add this pub to our list of eateries/drinkeries after a saturday out.
24 Feb 2009 11:43
Went back again on Friday 2nd January. The bar was buzzing as usual and there were a fair few people in the restaurant. My pizza had increased in price by �2 - a 29% increase which I thought was a bit steep in these troubled times. However, like last time, the meal, drinks and service were superb. I overheard some comments about the restaurant generally being a little cold but it was -2 outside so I'm not surprised.
Excellent and will go back a third time.
9 Jan 2009 11:52
I'm coming back to Goring very shortly. Has this pub reopened yet or is it still boarded up?
21 Dec 2008 16:00
Since I last wrote the pub has lost its Casque Marke status and apparently changed hands. The meals have shrunk but the quality stays the same. Perhaps it's a sign of the times but we will now be able to cast our net elsewhere. Shame - but marked down from a 9 to a 6.
3 Nov 2008 18:42
I've just read this last posting and feel very sorry about its contents. I spend as much time as possible in Goring but live about 110 miles away. At the risk of offending the owners of this website I can say with some conviction that it isn't well known in Essex and a pubs fortunes are not made or broken by inclusions good or bad. It's opinions - nothing else. I've had one publican thank me for my comments simply because he recognised some of the places I visit on my travels but a number of CAMRA members here don't know of the site either.
So to sum up - your pub has had a high number of comments so proportionately it is going to have its share of moaners! I'm not one of them but the whole matter needs to be taken in perspective. In short - DON'T DO IT!
18 Sep 2008 19:05
Hadn't been in for a while so I popped in on friday night. The place seems to have two distinct areas. One bit for the kids - the part I went in by mistake - and the older clientel on the left. Beer choice was only IPA and Abbot so one weak and one strong - nothing in the midddle. Seems general as this is what they had last year. God it was noisy in there. No loud music but the locals - and I mean the older ones - were shouting! The place was very busy so good luck to them but the beer was only average and only Greene King.
Lunch time food prices seemed keen on price although I don't understand how an "All day breakfast" can only be served until 2.30?
7 Sep 2008 16:10
I've known this pub for 20 years but only been in once until last sunday. My wife and daughter and myself popped in for a meal being one of the few places to eat on a sunday in this area. I was very conscious of some of the comments made by others but was impressed by the variation on the menu. Everything from steaks to pizzas to pies to burgers and the specials. I knew there was a curry on because I could smell it but our attention hadn't been drawn to the specials board. Problem soon resolved. My wife's seafood pie was a little cool underneath but a simple request for a reheat was dealt with efficiently. My daughter's pizza was a thin crust but a generous 12"+. She couldn't finish it so I obliged. The Thai curry was delicious! A good beer choice - I had the Oxford Gold and it was spot on.
All in all, yes it was worth the 20 mile drive from Newbury across the hills and back again. As ever, I wish I could spend some time in the bar as it was buzzing! Perhaps someone could entertain my wife next time while I sample the other beers!
29 Aug 2008 15:57
Went here last weekend while staying at the Thrapston Travelodge.
I'd call it a country pub in town. Beautiful thatched roof and a bar with 3 real ales. Tried two of them - absolutley fine. There are a few steps up to an immaculate restaurant area with its own bar. This could easily be set aside for private parties and so forth. The choice of food is quite amazing. Everything from pizzas to steaks to burgers to salads ........ I had a BBQ chicken pizza for �6.95 - best I've ever had. God those chillies (extra 80p) were hot! Service was also excellent and attentive.
Didn't find this pub in either the Good Beer or Good pub guide - can't understand why? Hopefully this message will change things.....
19 Aug 2008 08:53
Some friends took us to this beautiful looking pub from the Green King stable just off the A10. Everybody arrived at 6pm when the pub opened. The menu has some pies and sausages from a renowned local butcher. Not cheap here but I didn't here any complaints. There is a formal restaurant at the back but most patrons appeared to eat in the bar area.
Outside there is a large garden area where pheasants enjoy jumping on and off the pub roof!
Didn't try the beer but it was typical GK stuff but the soft drinks were enormous. The pub appears to bottle its own mineral water and you can pay �3 more and take the empty bottle home with you! Now there's an offer!
People travel for miles to come to this place. Me ....only 110!
13 Aug 2008 14:02
I've eaten here twice - 2 weeks ago and a year before that. I have to say that the food is excellent and if you choose wisely you don't have to pay too much. The beer choice is outstanding. I could quite happily spend a week here making it my local for the beer alone. Unfortunately we are not alone on these trips and as ever we have to rush off just as it starts getting interesting.
Took my camera last time - excellent village.
13 Aug 2008 12:36
I've eaten here many times the last of which was Sunday 4th May.My father-in-law said it was the best steak he'd ever eaten - believe me, praise indeed! The sunday roast was a sight to behold. Whenever I have a day off we head to this place for a jolly good meal. Nice real ales too from the Greene King range.
An excellent pub in a superb village.
19 May 2008 13:03
The Spanish Galleon, Greenwich
Went here today with a colleague from Croatia. She was delighted with her Fish Pie although it wasn't as large as she'd hoped. My Bubble and Squeak with lamb was plentiful although a little on the cold side. The beer was spot on. The master brew (and we both had one) was among the best I'd tasted. Very friendly service too. I'll take the wife next time.
4 Mar 2008 23:21
The Shepherd and Dog, Ballards Gore
Sadly, my friend and I have stopped coming here - at least not so frequently. It's not as warm as I last suggested and people have been sitting around in their overcoats. Please put the fire back on and we'll come back!
2 Mar 2008 13:48
I popped in last jight and was, frankly disappointed. There were 6 handpumps all with Green King IPA on them and when we ordered one, the only pump in operation ran out! No sign of any Abbot ale either. Must be the only Green King pub without its' own beer. Ended up drinking keg. Exactly the same thing happened when I last went in 7 years ago. Will be a long time before I go back.
29 Jan 2008 16:31
Without doubt one of the best pubs I go to and unfortunately not often enough. Went in last friday night to find a very mixed range of ages. Superb beers from the barrel including two Adnams. Seems pretty standard? A far cry from another nearby pub with loads of kids hanging around outside. Highly recommended.
24 Dec 2007 12:25
Went there on my mini visit to Maldon last friday. At 9pm there were only a few people there but it was -4C outside! My fourth visit in all and fair choice of real ales. Very basic pub but I like it. Excellent choice of food although 70p for a standard bag of crisps is a bit steep.
24 Dec 2007 12:20
This place continues to go from strength to strength much to the sheer hard work of the publican. It's a shame that his efforts aren't always rewarded by certain official bodies who lack the vision that he has.
Fast becoming a real ale mecca and the "hub" of the square.
2 Dec 2007 15:21
The Three Horseshoes, East Hanningfield
Drove past this pub at 7pm last night and it was in darkness! Does anyone know what's happening?
2 Dec 2007 15:17
We ate here on August 11th. Nice to eat a pub meal in the pub and NOT in a restaurant despite having our 13 year old with us. She had a baguette whilst we had a meal. Found the specials rather pricey but carefully chose a Thai Curry. Some of the desserts were off so we had another drink instead. All very nice if you choose the right dishes. Lovely village with a pond and church. A good find.
9 Nov 2007 14:39
Had a meal and some drinks here on August 25th. Came in through the car park and was led through a maze of corridors to the restaurant in the back of the pub. It soon became full. The beer was excellent and I wish I'd had time for more. The food was really very nice and I'd certainly return. Friendly service as well.
9 Nov 2007 14:32
The Three Horseshoes, East Hanningfield
The new owners of this pub have introduced 3 real ales. The Brewers Gold was in tip-top condition. Choice of food specials was mainly curries and chilli but there was a general menu as well. They certainly seemed eager to please and I shall return.
25 Oct 2007 08:26
Ate here a few times on my recent trips to the area. Very informal pub with a small caravan park behind. Nothing fancy just plain honest grub. Beer very nice and well kept. Tended to use it as our main pub having ben disappointed with the food at a certain pub in Colyton.
16 Oct 2007 16:20
The Ferryboat Inn, North Fambridge
I've been going here for 11 years and eating approx every 2 to 3 weeks. Nothing fancy here - just good plain home cooking at a fair price.Staff are exceptionally friendly which is why we travel 12 miles to get here most weekends. Sylvie, the landlady, has known my daughter since she was two and makes her and us feel like family freinds - and I guess we are.We even walk their dog!
15 Oct 2007 15:23
I went there with a friend last month and we agreed this was a lovely warm country pub. Too late to eat but the menu looked ok and reasonably priced. Not sure about children though. Said no children but then said ok if over 14 so guess that's it. My friend nearly went into the landlords private quarters when we left so no marks for him!
15 Oct 2007 15:17
I went there 3 weeks ago on a saturday with my family and was very surprised to note that we were the only people in all evening. We had a very nice meal, the beer was excellent and the landlord was friendly. He shut the door when we arrived, turned the lights up and made us very welcome. We'll certainly return but where was everybody else? We travelled 15 miles to get there so if we can make it ......
15 Oct 2007 15:10
Andy, who used to work there, has now bought the pub from the Spirit Group and turned it into a gastro pub. We walked in on a wet saturday night to find we were the only ones simply drinking. Average main course �15.95.Great shame as the three of us used to pop in for a sandwich or meal depending on how hungry we were. Now I simply can't afford to go there. The beer was always 100% perfect but you have to draw the line somewhere. Great bloke though and good luck to him!
12 Oct 2007 13:11
Noticed this pub is to open again soon after a complete refit. Looks like it's going upmarket. Should be interesting .....
12 Oct 2007 13:06
Trouble is there's never enough staff. People queue up at the bar to order food and drink together. What they need is a separate till for the food and that would improve the customer experience greatly. The beer prices are average although the food is expensive. Should be my local for area but much prefer to get on a bus and go to a real pub.
12 Oct 2007 13:04
I went here back in March on a weekend break with my family. What excellent food in the restaurant! Great for a special occasion although a bit above my budget when paying for three. Staff very friendly even down to a discussion about the music - was that really Rod Stewart? Didn't have a chance to taste the beer - but next time ......
12 Oct 2007 12:37
The pub is now in new hands following Steve's departure on ill health. Dan has little knowledge of Real Ale but has made an excellent start with encouragement from his staff. It's going to be a tough act to follow but early signs are very encouraging. Worth keeping an eye on. Going there tonight ......
12 Oct 2007 12:26
The pub will greatly benefit from the smoking ban which is why I stopped visiting 7 years ago. Too much smoke in the childrens room.
A great locals pub. They always made me feel welcome and I'm still friendly with a lot of them now.
Beer ok.
10 Oct 2007 14:08
The Shepherd and Dog, Ballards Gore
The unfriendly barmaid has long since gone and been replaced by those who consider that every customer matters. I do wonder sometimes how it pays it's way - long way out of town and few there after 9pm. But the beer is well worth the visit. Always warm in winter (the place not the beer!) and a lovely place to relax in. I'll cetainly keep coming here.
10 Oct 2007 14:05
As everyone has said it's a wonderful place. It's always a shame to have to go home from here as any plans to have a pub crawl are usually thwarted- why go anywhere else? It can be a bit clicky. Bar staff are generally friendly especially on friday night. Other nights are pretty variable unless you're with the "in-crowd". But who cares when the beer is so good.
10 Oct 2007 14:00
New landlord, Mick, is doing his best to encourage real ale drinkers. Not a real ale man himself he has however made an excellent start with his beer of the week which once extended to four on the Bank Holiday!
Certainly deserves encouragement although his technique of friendly one minute and cutting you dead the next could be his downfall. That said, I have nothing but the utmost praise and will certainly be a regular for the beer factor alone.
Well done!
10 Oct 2007 13:53
Ian, the landlord, has really turned this place around. Not for me - the loud music but the place has to pay its way. Well done for the well deserved place in the 2008 Good Beer Guide - I knew he could do it! Lovely quiet evenings on monday and tuesdays. The pub does bed and breakfast so if you want a good place to stay with a whole village full of good pubs then this is for you. The 23.15 last bus outside the door is handy too!!
10 Oct 2007 13:41
The Ship, West Hanningfield
I've popped in a number of times over the last year when the car park in my regular pub is full up (despite there being no-one in there on wednesday's) and have been very impressed by the quality and selection of real ales on offer. Often an Adnams Broadside or something similar in the late 4.0abv's. Food can be still a little pricey so you have to choose wisely. Beer festival in the summer (which I missed). A good, friendly place - firmly on my list for 2013.
7 Jan 2013 13:08