The Old Plough is a lovely atmospheric pub which caters for families, couples and even dogs. Husbandand- wife team Matt and Avril provide a warm welcome like no other. The pub was pleasantly full when we visited, and seeing other people’s dishes emerging from the kitchen made us excited about trying the food. I started with the homemade vegetable soup which was creamy, thick and complemented by a hot buttered baguette, while my companion opted for black pudding and bacon salad with balsamic vinegar. Moving on, the mains tempted us with succulent rump steak served with chips, mushrooms, tomato, onion rings and peas; it was delivered beautifully rare as requested. My partner had the barbecue chicken with bacon and similar delicious accompaniments. Tragically, we were both too full for the homemade desserts such as apple crumble and chocolate sponge that others were thoroughly enjoying.

No pub is a pub without beverages, and not only are The Old Plough’s delicious ales Cask Marque approved, but Matt was nominated by the Morning Advertiser for the hotly contested ‘National Best Cellar’ award in 2009, and also received the coveted ‘100 Per Cent Efficiency in Beer Care and Cellar Maintenance’ award from Punch. This music-loving pub often hosts jazz or rock nights, and their links with the local rugby club mean there are a number of charity events throughout the year too. The prices remain creditc runch friendly and, although the kitchen officially closes at 8pm, if there are still hungry mouths to feed then Matt and Avril are more than happy to oblige.