The Golden Boar Inn, Freckenham

Myself, my partner and our 14 year old daughter stayed here at the weekend and i feel compelled to write a review (not something i often do). After deciding we needed a well earned weekend away from the big smoke i booked a meal and 1 night on recommendation from a friend who has stayed here a couple of times for Newmarket racing weekends away.
On arrival we fell in love with the pub straight away. There are parts of it that are around 500 years old! It was busy with locals enjoying a few drinks and a chat with the landlord and his wife but it didn't feel at all intimidating, not even to us stressed out Londoners. In fact it felt homely and welcoming, we started to relax and unwind instantly. After a lovely glass of dry white at the bar ( wish i'd got the name of it) we were shown to our table in the conservatory restaurant.
High ceilings, wooden beams and white table linen give the place a light airy feel. Head waiter Luke is friendly, knowledgeable and efficient, explaining each dish with enthusiasm.
I opted for the roast duck breast with chorizo sausage and grilled fennel which i must say was a beautiful combination of flavours i hadn't tried before but enjoyed immensely. My partner had the roast sirloin with bone marrow crust and after tasting the perfectly cooked, tender steak with its unusual crust we wondered why we'd never experienced such a flavoursome partnering before? Our fussy teenager chose the same and declared that she could eat the same for dinner every day, especially the creamy, delicate garlic mash!
The freshly made desserts are to die for, we had the vanilla brulee and the english toffee pudding and ice cream. The brulee is thick and creamy while the gooey sweetness of the homemade jam compliments it perfectly. The pudding is moist and not too rich with sauce that makes you want to lick your plate clean!
And so to bed! Whilst enjoying this delicious feast our bags were taken to our rooms which we found to be spacious and very clean. They were nicely decorated and in keeping with the homely feel we'd noticed earlier that evening. The beds are very comfortable and the linen fresh.
Breakfast ( all local produce), in the morning was eaten in the sunshine in the garden which overlooks a stunning pink cottage complete with thatched roof............bliss.
All in all we had a lovely time at the Golden Boar Inn and cant wait to go back. In fact im in the process of organising a night for all our friends to sample the whole roast suckling pig for 14 people. With food and hospitality this good im sure it'll be a night to remember. Keep up the good work Golden Boar!!

11 Aug 2009 22:13