Picturesque pub off the beaten track with a very reasonable menu

Ever since I was shown here several weeks ago I have wanted to come back and try properly. On a spare, late afternoon I was very pleased to be able to do so in lieu of missing lunch. The first thing to note however, is how utterly picturesque it is with a entire range of options for dining al fresco in the front or rear gardens, both with water views and a wonderful setting. You simply woudn’t know about this place unless someone had highlighted to you as the advertised turning off the main road is easy to miss and even when taking this side road, you begin to wonder whether it will run out to a backbeat dead end. However, a charming mil pub awaits you.

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Aside from the setting, the menu provided stands very reasonably with 2 courses for £11.95, 3 courses for £14.95. I went for the former as still a little full from the previous night, but the chicken liver parfait with vinaigrette drizzled over the bread pieces and balsamic reduction was absolutely superb (better than some I have had in Michelin starred pubs). The battered fish finger sandwich was good but proved a little plain with reinforcement home made tartare sauce required (which was rather good). The pub kindly allowed a side of thermidor sauce that usually goes with the lobster sandwich but this was more like soured cream with chunks of cheese rather than bechamel based sauce I was hoping for. The chips were fine and the pub has chosen its brand of ketchup well – Stokes! I honestly believe this and Tiptree are the best you can get out of the bottle.

All in all, a pleasant menu, served by communal staff in a lovely setting. This location will be most suitable for drop ins and snack grazing as well as the gems of having a sunshine meal al fresco, overlooking the river from the front garden or overlooking the stream from the back.

Food Grade: 64%