Kings Head

The weekend before, the food was fine, so maybe there was a better 'heater upper' working then. Tonight, 20th May '26, curry night was pretty much what I expected, except the naan was soggy at the edges and rock hard elsewhere, completely inedible. We saw another couple leave too, presumably for the same reason. There were pizzas with cheese still holding the shape it had in the bag, not even fully melted. I know it’s a Spoons, but come on. I paid at 11.34 and asked twice to speak to the head honcho, who never appeared. Can I politely ask who the 'heater upper' was tonight, so I know to ask before ordering food next time? What kind of heat can’t melt mozzarella? Some special British health and safety heat where you’re only allowed to use the appliances while they’re switched off? 😆

The only real downsides were the late-night noise from the restaurant below and the lack of a hotel car park. There’s a fairly cheap car park with CCTV within walking distance, payable at the machine, by phone or online. The central location is handy for shops, and check-in and check-out were simple. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I was on a solo work trip, and my room was comfortable with everything I needed: AC, a nice double bed, smart TV, bottled water and snacks, tea and coffee facilities, plus free hot drinks in the hotel pub/restaurant with the key card. There was also an iron and board, a hair dryer and a modern bathroom. The beer garden has outdoor smoking areas. I was quite satisfied.

It was our first time eating at a Weatherspoons, and although the place was packed, we felt welcome. We ordered on the Spoons app, and the meals arrived quickly, looked good and tasted very nice. Free coffee refills topped it off. Just what we wanted, and we’ll be back.

That was really poor, honestly utter rubbish. I ordered a crispy chicken salad today, 23/12/2025, and paid at precisely 11.34. I’m including the time in case the head honcho who might read this wants to know this is genuine and not a troll. There were three pieces of crispy coated chicken, each about the size of an index finger, with what looked like fat offcuts in a bowl that was supposed to be bacon. That arrived more than five minutes late. The salad itself looked more at home on the compost heap. I told the waitress who took away my uneaten plate, but she just walked off. The person who brought the so-called bacon had asked if everything was satisfactory. I said no and asked to see the head honcho, and she turned on her heels and left without a word. I complained to two staff/waitresses, got no apology from either, and both just walked away. The person in charge couldn’t even be bothered to come and discuss it. I was perfectly polite, though I’m angry now. I’ve never had to complain about JD before. It’s never been the best, but it was usually reasonable. This time was beyond poor. I’d fear for JD if food like this is regular. The beer, atmosphere, prices, facilities, staff (usually) and iconic buildings are PDG, and I’m glad you’re on the high street. Please keep an eye on the food, and if a punter asks to see the person in charge, show some respect and come talk through the issue. I won’t be eating at any of your places in the near future.