Mary Arden Inn

It's a brilliant place to stop during or after a good walk, with lots of footpaths close by and beautiful countryside around. Since the pub reopened, it's made a real difference to the village. The new team have done a sterling job making it a great village pub with good food and drinks. You can pop in for a quick drink, catch some entertainment or join one of the socials.

The sausage and mash was one of the best I've ever had. The locally sourced sausage was superbly cooked, with excellent ingredients, plenty of kale and gravy. The sticky toffee pudding was predictably sticky but surprisingly light, and the Black Sheep Ale was perfect too. I've had a pint poured by Paul Theakston at the Black Sheep brewery, and this was just as good. The menu itself was frankly uninspiring, and its designless presentation nearly sent me elsewhere, so don't judge the food by the bland looking menu. I stayed two nights on a business trip. The room was roomy, clean and well serviced, with a very comfortable 4-poster and plenty of character, though some updating would help. Lovely pub and building, with good service.

On the surface it's a solid local pub, but the staff are what make it, especially Mark the manager. He cares so much about the village and really looks after the locals. That kind of personal service is rare these days. Mark and his team have nailed it. Well done, and keep it up!

I could see and hear Mark and Lin chatting with the patrons in a friendly way, with banter and conversation but without being intrusive. I visited with a friend who lives nearby and was welcomed straight away by the warm atmosphere and their smiles. I'll definitely go back.