The Cricketers, Clavering

A truly outstanding old pub (see details in Good Pub Guide) between M11 (near Cambridge) and A10, easily reached from either. Run by Jamie Oliver's parents. Outstanding menu -- not particularly cheap, but helpings so generous and quality so exceptional and innovative that it's excellent value. A good varied wine list at extremely reasonable prices. Adnams and other real ales in perfect condition. Very popular with discriminating eaters so essential to book. Comfortable and affordable accommodation, including delectable breakfast, in modern bedroom annex beside pub car-park, a few metres from the pub (pity about the duvets instead of blankets, though). Friendly and unpatronising staff. Altogether I find the modest ratings of other users absolutely absurd. No, I don't have shares in the place, don't know the Olivers and have no financial interest in praising it. As it seems to be permanently booked up and crowded, it doesn't need to pay for a puff!

21 Nov 2004 22:54