Raleghs Cross Inn

We finally stopped at Ralegh's Cross Inn for lunch after a quiet walk at Wimbleball Lake with our two dogs. I’d driven past it plenty of times over the years and was curious about the inside. It’s smart and clean, with stone floors, lots of seating and a well-stocked bar. The woman serving behind the bar was lovely and welcoming, though I didn’t catch her name. The menu had a good range. My wife chose the scampi and I went for their huge 16oz burger. It took a little while, but we weren’t in a rush, and the food came out piping hot. The burgers were cooked just right, and I was glad I skipped a starter because I’m not sure I’d have managed the whole thing. The Exmoor Ale on tap was lovely too. We had to head home, but we’ll be back to try the carvery and maybe one of the BBQ days.

After a long walk around wimbleball lake, just ten minutes away, my partner and I both ordered the Rayleigh burger. The inn itself is beautifully presented and sits in a lovely spot, but the food was a real letdown. I don’t think I’ve ever struggled so much to finish a burger. Both meals had gristle in every bite, and a couple of mouthfuls had bone shards. The staff were friendly enough and refunded the meal when I asked. They apologised, but didn’t seem very concerned about how poor the food was, and no alternative was offered. By the time we left to look elsewhere, it was too late to find another place to eat that wasn’t fast food.

The carvery is delicious, and we often come back for it. There’s always a warm welcome and brilliant service, and the staff are lovely and helpful. I work as a domestic and commercial cleaner, so I tend to notice how clean places are. My one criticism is that the ladies’ toilets weren’t kept hygienic.

There was a party of 28 booked in today, and everyone was saying how tasty the Sunday carvery was. We thought it was absolutely delicious too. The staff were friendly and attentive, especially with such a large group. We’d definitely come back and recommend it to others. Well done to the whole team.