The Bear On The Square

The noise from something happening in the square was awful and kept me awake until 3am. My husband is deaf, so it didn't bother him. The window catches were too high for me to reach, though the room itself was comfortable, clean and tidy. We had booked two nights, with the chance of adding a third, for our wedding anniversary trip to Lake windermere and some sightseeing. Then I heard of a serious illness at home and we had to cut the visit short. The duty manager kindly offered to refund the night we couldn't stay, but more than three weeks later I still haven't received the £65. I've emailed and they haven't replied, despite having my contact details. The illness ended in a death, and I haven't had the heart to chase it. I was also looking forward to the evening meal, which had been recommended. The missing refund cost them a star. £65 is a lot for a pensioner to lose; if business is so bad, they can keep it as a donation toward an aftersales customer service course.

My husband's meal was okay, though nothing special. Mine was awful: the wrap was freezing, the chicken had a strange texture, and the bottled sauce had no taste. The chips were all over the place, some hot and some cold. We waited ages for the food, too. With the other reviews I'd read, I was left feeling like I'd ended up at a different pub. I can't give this place any stars.

I left most of my meal and couldn't wait to get out. The ribs were lukewarm, and the chips seemed as if they'd been sitting around most of the day and then refried. The salad was about the only thing that looked fresh. My other half said the steak & ale pie was alright, but his chips were in the same sorry state. We waited just 15 minutes from ordering to being served, which should have been a clue. The food was inedible, and I can't imagine a chef proud of their work sending it out. We won't be coming back. We ate here last night Mon 24/2/25, and even giving it one star is difficult.

The building might put you off, but inside we were pleasantly surprised. Sue and Tracy were behind the bar, Dan was making lovely food, and Tania brought it to our table. Good value, too. A great pub with great food and staff. It reminded us not to judge a book by its cover, and we'll happily come again.