The Upton Inn, Upton Cheyney

The Upton Inn used to have an excellent reputation for food. But now the food is over-rated and over priced.

The Sunday carvery is nothing special, certainly not 'out-of-this-World' and the standard menu is far too pricey - the management really should visit some other pubs to see the competition (and find out what really good value for money is) . . . too many pubs are closing down and it would be a shame for Upton Cheyney to lose it's village pub.

The decor of the main pub is traditional and is totally at odds with the decor of the 'restaurant' area - a very strange mix of styles which doesn't work and only succeeds in highlighting the tattiness of the main bar.

Some of the seating in the main bar is filthy, covered in disgusting stains. I'm not adverse to spit-n-sawdust pubs, but expect more from a pretty country pub that charges restaurant prices.

It would appear that it's still trading on its reputation from many years ago and its current 'success' (it's still open) is due mainly to the fact that its the only pub in the village and its nearest competitor has closed down.

Previous owners really made an effort in the summer with beautiful hanging baskets and beds, but last year I don't think they even bothered weeding the beds and no hanging baskets . . . a poor show for a country pub.

With regards to the post from Jamie Pike . . . he is the 'new owner' . . . so no surprise he's bigging it up.

Could do better. Hope they do better.

23 Feb 2010 15:03