Wild Boar Inn

The staff were friendly and helpful, and the food was very good, including a few things we hadn’t tried before. The place has a lovely cosy feel, with an old-fashioned range in the bar, a fire in the dining room and comfy chairs in the dog-friendly area, where they also had dog treats. The grounds seem extensive, though the map doesn’t show how long the walk around the wood is. Accessibility was difficult for us. My wife hadn’t booked an accessible room, although the hotel says it has a few. After a friendly check-in and complimentary moonshine, we were told to drive around to the rear car park to reach our room. It was on the first floor up two flights of stairs, which wasn’t the hotel’s fault, and I assume the accessible rooms are on the ground floor. The bar and dining area also had two short stair sets going up and two longer ones going down, and I couldn’t see rooms on the ground floor near that area. After dinner I asked if there was a way back to our room without stairs. The only route was around the car park, up a fairly steep slope, in pouring rain. The next morning we drove round to the front because even with the wheelchair we’d have struggled with the slope. It’s a great place to stay, but not ideal if you have a physical disability and stairs are a challenge.

The food and drinks were really nice, and I left stuffed. I had the Beer Bat, three third-pint glasses of their own IPA, Pale and Stout, included in the price. Tea and coffee were included too, with refills. I went to the Wild Boar for an 'Alternative Afternoon Tea'. The bar and restaurant have a quirky, old-school look that fits a centuries-old building, with an open fire, exposed oak beams, low doorways and ceilings, and even a distinctive slate waterfall urinal. I can’t comment on the bedrooms, but I’d happily return for a weekend break and a walk around the estate. They provide wellies for guests.

We took a leisurely walk around the estate after breakfast. There’s plenty to explore, with paths of varying difficulty, and you can borrow wellies if you didn’t bring your own. Breakfast was another highlight: brisket benedict and seasonal French toast, plus a buffet with fresh apple juice, lovely pastries and cakes, and other breakfast options. I only wish I’d had room to try more. We stayed on a Thursday night while travelling from Wales to Scotland and got the midweek offer, which was incredible value. The lodge and grounds are beautiful, and our room was clean and spacious, with a large bed and a lovely set-up for our dog. The dog bed, towel, treats and ball were thoughtful touches. Dogs aren’t allowed in the main restaurant, but the lounge was comfortable and the staff made ours very welcome. The cocktail menu was interesting and extensive, with plenty of wine and beer too, including their own brew made right off the lounge. Dinner was among the best food we’ve had in a while. We started with the venison sausage 'snack', then shared confit smoked sea trout and the daily rack of lamb, both delicious with a generous side of root vegetables. We also shared the toffee apple baked alaska with popcorn ice cream, which was phenomenal and beautifully presented at the table. A wonderful overnight stay, especially if you have a pup with you.

We came for a family celebration meal and it was every bit as fabulous as we’d heard. The portions were generous and the food was lovely, with so many flavours. The table staff were pleasant, and the meal came at a good pace without making us feel hurried. It costs more than an average place, but was worth every penny.