The Staff of Life Country Pub is a truly loved public house with a rustic charm that makes it an ideal venue for an intimate meal or a family gathering. A recent refurbishment has brought in modern muted tones, Dickensian copper-topped tables, flagstone and oak floors and a bar area with leather tub chairs nestled around a daily lit fire.
The ever-changing specials boards tell of an inspiring blend of elegant fish ensembles and locally shot country game dishes. Examples include Cotesbach partridge wrapped in perfumed bacon with game gravy, pan-fried Megrim sole with lemon parsley butter, Gressingham duck breast pan-fried with redcurrant gravy and Knaptoft pheasant with dumplings and winter vegetables.
Tuesday and Wednesday nights host the supper club: a superb, three-course set menu offering the best value for money in the county. Each night is a taste of tantalising gastronomy. Take, for instance, the pan-fried wood pigeon wrapped in bacon on braised cabbage with game jus, followed by Cumberland sausages with herb mash, a Yorkshire pudding and a shallot and red wine gravy. To finish, gaze upon the deliciously delicate Champagne and mascarpone cheesecake made with the expertise of Linda O’Neill (formerly of the Irish Panel of Chefs). This is stunning English fare done with true English flair right in the very heart of the country.
