The Smugglers Inn

The kids loved the secret sliding door down to the underground restaurant, and the pub had a great feel. The staff were lovely, too. Sadly, the food didn’t live up to the setting, especially for the prices, which were higher than at other local pubs we tried during the week. My £32 rump steak was very chewy. The ribs were £18.50, arrived as half a rack and were badly overcooked. They came with just corn on the cob and a small pot of slaw, and chips cost extra. We came in for a last-minute meal, but it was a letdown. I hope the staff don’t take this personally, but the food wasn’t up to scratch.

After a beach trip with our two-year-old, we stopped in for lunch. The garden is beautifully kept and great for children, with a fish pond to look at. The food was excellent and the beer was very well kept. We’ll definitely come back if we’re in the area.

We’ve been coming for years, but this will be our last visit. The Smugglers has gone downhill: the building looks shabby, and the outdoor seating is broken where the garden used to be such a beautiful, welcoming spot. The staff weren’t welcoming, and the food was heavily overpriced. In previous years the staff were lovely and the atmosphere was great. Lots of people were complaining about how little choice there was. Pizza was the only thing on the menu, at an extortionate price. Six adults paid £100 for pizzas.

A really good Sunday lunch, and plenty of it. We picked the pork and beef from the three meat choices, both cooked well, with seven kinds of vegetables and a rich gravy. It was £16.50 per person. Desserts from the specials board weren’t cheap at £7.25 each, but they were generous portions and very tasty. Highly recommend.