The Anglers Arms

The staff were so helpful and pleasant, and I’d happily recommend eating here. My crumble was beautiful, and the steak and ale pie had loads of steak with lovely, not-too-thick pastry. The belly pork starter was the standout, honestly one of the best three-course meals I’ve had in ages.

The apartment was clean and comfortable, but we barely slept because the toilet kept running and flushing all night. We only discovered it late, when nobody was on site, so I reported it the next morning. It seems the problem was already known, but we hadn't been told. When I later raised it with management, they were indifferent, saying we should have reported it sooner, and claimed it had been fixed a couple of days before our stay. There was no real apology or acknowledgement of how disruptive it had been. Dinner in the pub made an already expensive night worse. My vegetarian Thai red curry was £18 and mostly mange tout, a few slivers of red pepper, tasteless sauce, and a tiny bit of rice. My partner said his burger was tasteless too. We spent about £150 for the night, accommodation and food, and it wasn't remotely worth it. A family member had recommended the Anglers Arms, which made the stay especially disappointing. I can't stress how bad the experience was. Northumberland has some fantastic hotels and restaurants, but this definitely isn't one of them. I'd strongly advise looking elsewhere for somewhere to stay or eat.

Maureen was lovely with all of us. She chatted and was attentive without hovering, so if I had the choice next time, I'd sit in her area. The steak and ale pie was probably the best I've ever had. I usually order that in a pub, and this one had shortcrust pastry, just how I like it. Yesterday at the Middle Inn, the pie was puff pastry with no sides, just a dish, which I don't think deserves the name. This one was marvellous. A wonderful pub with good food and a nice atmosphere. I'd recommend it.

The roast we had on Sunday was hot and tasty, with generous portions. They even brought extra gravy for free, which I appreciate since some places charge for it. Friendly, efficient service too.