The Horse and Groom Inn

The Horse and Groom is a boutique experience for would-be country gentry. Accommodation is set back from a run-through road across a walled courtyard and at its nearest, behind a shared corridor, so you never feel disturbed by the passing traffic. Private ensuite had own-branded toiletries, shelf space and mirrors aplenty. There was also lots of storage in the room (although no wardrobe nor dresser, which may present a problem for some). The addition of a Nespresso machine certainly made me feel indulged as it's quite the pick-up. WiFi connected and operated speedily and easily. As with many picturesque settings, network coverage here is patchy, so check with your provider if that's an issue. Menu set out for a range of tastes; the dishes I hadwere exquisitely cooked. Confit Pork belly crunchtop, tender meat in a porcine jus. Like starters, similarly luxurious which made an able lunch, Pork cheek with butternut squash puree, taste is full yet unlike most establishments, also filling. However. Before booking, I phoned to verify and was assured the Horse and Groom catered for a wide range of dietary requirements and any dish could be adapted accordingly. This proved not to be the case however, as having issues with both gluten and dairy, only one main would suit me as is. For example, I asked about the fishcake and was told it was pre-mixed (with diary cheese) and could not be adapted. When I protested, 'that's not what I was told,' my server assured me that indeed was the case. Fortunately for me, I hadn't pre-paid for dinners when booking, so encountering some very nearby places who comfortably accommodated my needs, for evening meals I ate there instead. Caveat emptor I would advise anyone booking; but for this annoyance, I would have given the Horse and Groom 5*. If you have no or limited dietary issues, the Horse and Groom is the place for you. Overall this was a pleasant and satisfying stay. The insulation between rooms was reasonable so I could sleep and the bed was the most comfortable I've ever slept in staying away. Service is friendly and, within typical experience, they are keen to satisfy the customer. That they were available to book when many were not was, I suppose, a bonus in itself.

Now. We have eaten many times at this pub but yesterday on a pre theatre dinner we had the most unsettling experience. First of all I ordered Crayfish and Avacado as a starter. The taste was good but the starter was avacado free. Odd. I asked the charming waitress about this and she assured me it had avacado in but it was crushed. Let me just say what it lacked in avacado was made up by extra onion. Yup. Then the second course: fish of the day. It was advertised as cod. We were told it was cod. And when it came there was cod there. However, there was also a lot more mackerel than cod. While I don’t dislike mackerel I do dislike it pretending to be cod. Again I asked our charming waitress about this and after a trip to the kitchen she explained all the cod was finished so they supplanted it with mackerel. Well. It was the catch of the day. We were eating at 6pm and no one thought to tell us anything before we complained. Odd, wouldn’t you say? My conclusion: temporary chef. I hope so because we are local and hope to eat there again!

Well worth a stay Excellent hotel, nice room, comfy bed, excellent food both at dinner and breakfast. Staff always very friendly and helpful