The Crewe Arms

I was also here for Christmas lunch with a table of eight, and as a local I think The Crewe is fantastic. A certain other review is pretty comical: apparently the meal had tasty scallops and excellent toast, but tepid soup and potatoes that weren't crunchy enough. They had to walk to the bar for drinks, and later found a piece of butcher's string, which was removed without anyone being hurt. That somehow became panic, gross negligence and a near-death experience, despite the £20 goodwill gesture. The chef said it was unprecedented, but apparently only full personal liability would do. They spent £440, ate most of the food, didn't go to hospital, then declared a lifelong boycott and called eating here a gamble with your safety. Seems the bigger risk is dining with someone expecting Christmas to come with a refund. Don't let a freeloader put you off.

A proper village pub, with a log fire and super friendly, welcoming staff. It's our local now. We've eaten here a couple of times: the Sunday roast was lovely with generous portions, and the fish and chips is a winner, with a lovely thin, crispy batter. Great for a meal or just a quick drink.

We booked a festive lunch for six family members and two children. The kitchen could cater for coeliacs, the room was nicely decorated for Christmas, and the crackers were good quality. There was also a resident Labrador.

Lovely lunch out with the missus. The chicken burger was scrummy, sorry for the rubbish photo. By the time we'd finished, the plate was so clean it hardly needed the dishwasher. We'll be back.