A short walk from the historic Donnington Castle and the nearby market town of Newbury lies this beautiful traditional pub. Friendly, warm and welcoming, this family-run establishment is managed by Caroline, who oversees the bar and restaurant area, whilst her mum Alison whips up a host of homemade classics in the kitchen.
With an ample menu and specials board there really is something for everyone here. Deliberating over the array of starters, I decided to take some advice from Caroline and started with a platter of Cajun, tempura and butterflied prawns, served piping hot with a crunchy side salad and a sweet chilli dipping sauce. My guest tucked into a starter of tasty grilled goat’s cheese salad. I followed with a steak and kidney pudding – these are often purchased in pairs by diners at The Castle at Donnington so they can take a spare one home. My companion chose sea bass and ginger fishcakes, fresh and perfectly cooked with a subtle Oriental flavour.
This conveniently located pub has a genuinely welcoming atmosphere and charming owners. With its family-friendly restaurant and suntrap of a garden, The Castle at Donnington really is a great place to unwind with a pint and the kind of home-cooked food only a mum knows how to make.
