Black Bull Gartmore

It’s a clean, well-maintained Inn in a lovely area on a quiet street, and the location was easy to find. We were welcomed and looked after by friendly staff as soon as we arrived. Breakfast the next morning was a good size. We didn’t eat a meal there, though we were told the food was good. Guests get a security pass for the apartment.

We stopped in to eat and were blown away by the quality. The steak and ale pie was delicious, made with high-quality beef from a local butcher. We sat in the bar with our dog, where the atmosphere was lovely and the staff were friendly and attentive. The meal was great value. Definitely recommend it if you're nearby.

We came for an early dinner and were really impressed by the excellent food. The portions were generous and imaginative, but still made with ingredients you could identify, no blobs of sauce gel or jus that might have been anything. The dining room was tastefully decorated, and the furniture could be rearranged easily. My husband uses a wheelchair. We parked in the designated disabled space and got into the bar by a solid ramp, then wheeled through easily to the dining room. The staff were very helpful and friendly. We’ll definitely go back.

The food was outstanding: fresh, flavourful and generous. We loved the rich, comforting Cullen skink with its warm home-baked roll and butter. The smoked salmon starter, with thick slices, fresh crisp salad and a hand-cut lemon wedge, was a highlight too. The skinny fries were plentiful, crunchy outside and fluffy inside. We’re keen to return for the tofu, cauliflower and cashew stew, as well as the classic steak and ale pie. It’s great that they cater so well for vegans and vegetarians. There’s a superb range of drinks, including draft beers, ales, spirits, espresso coffee and wines. The new cask ales are especially tasty. Even the toilets are immaculate and beautifully decorated, which says a lot about the care here. The main room’s big log burner made it extra memorable, and our chocolate Labrador was so cosy she fell asleep beside it. It’s genuinely dog-friendly. The Black Bull in Gartmore is a real village pub gem. The staff welcomed us warmly, and the stylish, cosy décor set a lovely tone. Its community ownership after the local buyout gives it a special charm, and it’s great to see the village hub so well supported and thriving. Friendly, beautifully run and serving excellent food and drink, it’s just what a village pub should be. We can’t wait to return.