The Swan In The Rushes, Loughborough

I came in here one late afternoon with my mother and girlfriend. The chap behind the bar was busy arranging salad on a plate and said he would be with us in a minute. We waited. And waited. And got thirstier. And the barman continued arranging the salad. After a couple of discussions within our group about whether to stay or go, we went. The barman was still arranging salad, and we went to the Criterion where we were able to get an excellent pint or two.

As a result I cannot recommend this place at all, despite the fact I walk past it every day on the way to and from work. Not a good pub experience as far as I am concerned and I will not be going back.

26 Jul 2007 20:48

The Bull and Swan Inn, St Martins

This is an excellent pub with excellent beer. The Deuchars IPA is almost always on top form. They generally have about 5 beers on (at last visit including Abbot, Adnams, Jennings). There is plenty of room inside and a pleasant but underused beer garden/patio out the back. Newspapers are available which is very civilised. They have live music most Sunday evenings.

17 Jul 2007 15:26

The Tobie Norris, Stamford

Opened late 2006, aimed at "mature crowd". Building dates to 1280, and is well worth a visit. Four real ales on tap (three from the Ufford Ales brewery, one guest), all well-kept. Pub is non-smoking throughout. Not the most visible from outside. No food served at time of writing.

2 Jan 2007 09:51

St Marys Vaults, Stamford

Pleasant pub with front area for beer and back area for food. Beer is Sam Smiths, so perfectly drinkable but not outstanding, but very inexpensive. A good place to go to avoid the crowd at weekends (busy lunchtimes though). Decor somewhat worn, especially in the front bar. There are better places in Stamford, especially if you are looking for a wider selection of beer, but this is well worth a visit if you are in Stamford. Nothing is outstanding but everything is certainly good/acceptable. It is not especially popular with chavs or the football crowd.

29 Dec 2006 15:51

Millstone Inn, Barnack, Stamford

Called in one quiet Sunday afternoon for a jar. Beer was well-kept and very tasty, and a good range from local/small brewers. Himself was very attentive (in a good way!) and seemed very proud of the food, which does have a good reputation. There is a large album of photos, press reports, etc which reflects very favourably on the pub and management. Pub itself is in the centre of Barnack, well-sited and easy to find. Interior looks "lived in". Well worth a visit, interior is nothing out of the ordinary though. Shall review food at a future date...

26 Oct 2006 13:54

The Otters Pocket, Stamford

First and foremost - beer is *excellent*. Bishops Farewell (Oakham) very toothsome. Pub is fairly narrow and on two levels, and seems to show a lot of the football. Staff are friendly and helpful. Pub suffers slightly from layout: the long bar can be difficult to get close to for service when the pub is busy. Low ceiling also means it can be smoky. Otherwise, a good choice for a beer or three at any time.

26 Oct 2006 13:48