The Old Vine Inn

Absolutely shocking. This was my third attempt to eat here. On the first visit, after an hour waiting for game pie, we were told it would be another 20 minutes. We tried again, got the pie that time, but it was undercooked and bland. Today we went for Sunday lunch. The menu was very limited, with turkey or roast glazed gammon, but we decided to give it a go. The garlic prawns were cold and tasteless, with soggy lettuce and dry, barely warm toast. I sent them back. The main was just as bad: cubed gammon shoved under a limp Yorkshire pudding, one bit of carrot, some cabbage and congealed packet gravy. It was beyond words. There wasn’t even an apology from the landlords or chef, who were enjoying beers at the bar. I wish I’d taken photos. We weren’t the only ones complaining, and another plate looked like dog food. Avoid at all costs!

Dogs are very welcome here, too. We stopped at the Old Vine yesterday for a quick drink and got a warm greeting from the staff. The pub was busy with lunches that looked delicious, so we decided to eat. There was a small menu with a good range of meals and snacks at very reasonable prices. Our food arrived quickly and piping hot, just right for a cold November afternoon. We’ll definitely come back. Best wishes to the new owners for success.

The beef and chicken burgers were both really tasty, and we couldn’t fault either. We stopped for lunch during a walk around part of Bewl Water and found the place busy on its opening day. The staff mentioned that some final work was still going on, but once it’s all finished and in place, it’ll be a lovely pub and restaurant. Everyone was friendly and helpful, and you can tell they’re passionate about the new venture. We wish them the best and will return.

The owners have clearly put a lot of work into bringing this old pub back to life, and it shows. We had delicious fish and chips, the best in the area in our opinion, with attentive, friendly service. It’s a pleasant country pub, and it was nice not to have loud music in the background for a change. We’ll certainly become regulars!