The Cricketers Inn

They looked after 26 people from my family in the pub’s outside cabin, and did a fantastic job. The food was incredible, the service was amazing, and everyone worked so hard. I have nothing but the highest praise for this place.

We waited 40 minutes for lunch, then another 35 for a single dessert. We had to ask how much longer it would be before it finally arrived. The Sunday pork was dry and overcooked. Sadly, we wouldn’t come back.

The reply from the chef, passed back by our server, was that he was “sorry it was not to our taste!” We were five adults who’d arrived hungry and hopeful, and that response was disappointing. I’d brought my grown-up children, visiting from abroad, because I’d praised The Cricketers’ lunches so much on earlier visits. We’d always enjoyed the food before, often saving room for pudding even when we didn’t need it. This time we arrived a little early and were asked to wait before ordering. I assumed they were batch cooking vegetables for a fresh, nicely presented meal. But the beef needed a steak knife, my husband’s pork took a lot of chewing, the broccoli was still raw, and the roast potatoes were a chore to eat. All of it had been superb on previous visits. So sad.

The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the food was fantastic. What is it about English pubs and their menus? A beautiful country pub, and a must stay if you’re visiting the English countryside.