The Bentley Brook Inn, Fenny Bentley

Visited this place two days ago - but its more of a dining room than a pub. Strange that a place with a micro-brewery attached could only manage to have one beer on draught - Ashborne Ale. Said ale was excellent, but I would have liked to have tried others. There were only 3 bottle packs for sale, and these were all the same. Dont bother with the food though, it is awful and overpriced. Service was pathetic, and even though we left most of the food we had been served, none of the staff asked about this. We wont be going back to this place.

8 Jan 2007 11:25

The Swan Inn, Stone

Certainly the best pub in Stone. Beer selection and quality is usually first class. Excelllent variety of beers. Friendly staff - and you can ask to sample any ale before buying. Nice courtyard out the back, with heaters. Regular bands. The Swan has a good fire in winter and a fine free buffet on Sunday lunchtimes. Beer fetival in July, lasts a whole week, and is calm and laid back with usually around 50 ales on gravity in the courtyard.
Downside of pub is that it is so smoky. Roll on when smoking is banned.I hope the courtyard wont become the pub's ashtray then.

8 Jan 2007 11:15