The Swan Hotel, Arundel

Having only recently found the attraction to real ale it is nice to be able to enjoy a nice pint in such picturesque surroundings. However as with spending time in picturesque surroundings there is always a requirement to share the occasion with someone, as such i brought along my partner, daughter (13) and canine companion. I cannot stress how important it is that on a pleasant day that you are able to bring your dog inside for a drink. The staff catered to his and our needs we were all suitably refreshed and at a reasonable price.

We returned in the evening (minus the dog) to sample the food. I enjoyed the locally produced sausages(literally across the road from the hotel!), in red wine gravy with beer battered onion rings and mash, my partner had the hotpot which she enjoyed. When it came to my daughter, after 5 minutes deliberation between roast chicken and beer battered fish and chips, having been put off by the new potatoes and boiled veg of the chicken dish, the staff kindly offerred to change the entire dish to have a large crisp salad and quality cooked chips with a gorgeous honey barbecue sauce.

On many occasions i have been to restaurants and had to order a desert to make sure I'm full. However the size of the portions was substantial without being overfaced. I think i will have to come back another day to try the citrus pannacotta and or the chocolate and banana bread and butter pudding and of course the 3 other real ales they have on draught.

15 Apr 2009 00:03