Sandy Park Inn

The room was tastefully done in a country-chic style, with a really comfortable bed and no TV, which was a bonus. The road outside was noisy, though the WiFi was strong. Downstairs, the old-fashioned English pub has slate paving stones, real ale, rustic characters, friendly service, and nice decor. The pizza was delicious, while the veal felt a little bland even with its pesto-style sauce. Breakfast was beautifully presented and superb. There’s a lovely beer garden for when the sun’s out. My one real irritation was Classic FM playing in the bar morning and evening, with adverts every five minutes. Commercial-free internet radio like Radio Paradise would suit a pub better.

Just a heads up, there are no rooms, and the owner still hasn't removed that claim from the internet after three years. The online details also still say food is served at the Sandy Park, but it isn't. The owner seems pretty lazy about keeping the listing up to date, and not especially tech savvy. Still, the beer is consistently excellent, the fire is always on, and the cosy atmosphere comes with dogs and all sorts of interesting rogues, eccentric legends, and loyal regulars. If beer and good company are your thing, these lovely people will happily share an evening with you. Hungry? Have a drink anyway. Why spend a perfectly good evening eating when you could be having an existential crisis with several brand-new best friends? We all have our foibles, I guess.

A friendly little pub that locals clearly visit often. Just be aware there's no food apart from crisps and the like.

The place is small, and parking can be tricky, though there’s space for four or five cars right in front of the Inn. Even so, I have no doubt we’ll return. We came to Sandy Park Inn for Sunday lunch on 6th April 2014. My wife chose roast beef and I had the slow-roasted lamb shoulder. The portions were a good size, with plenty of vegetables, nine different types. Our host was very friendly and helpful, and service was prompt. The apple and plum crumble with custard was tasty too, followed by coffee. The meal came to £27, including drinks with the meal and coffee afterwards, which was very reasonable.