Review by SRD on 17th December, 2008

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After a serious morning's shopping in Frome I decided to try out this pub which is located just off the A359 between Frome and Bruton in Somerset. A lovely setting with views over a patio and garden to King Alfred's Tower at the head of the Stourhead estate. The pub boasts a couple of bars, one with pool table, and a bright, airy restaurant. A couple of real ales; I sampled the Butcombe, which was well kept and served. I knew the chef from a couple of years back at the Bull at South Brewham where she provided a standard range of well prepared meals. Looking at the menu she has continued in this vein with a selection of staples and a couple of fish specials. I started with the terrine, meaty and dense with a layer of pistachios served with a spicy tomato chutney and a salad garnish (no bread for me), it was excellent. I followed with the braised lamb shank and herby mashed potatoes, again excellent; the lamb had a touch of pinkness to the deepest parts of the meat but with a fine, sticky surface and a surprisingly light but tasty gravy. I chose to have red cabbage to accompany but there was a selection of vegetables available. I picked a bottle of 2000 claret to accompany, not very exciting but adequate. Next time I will try one of the house wines by the glass. The food is classic country pub fare, not flashy, but as well prepared as one can get and the chef was well able to cater for my wheatfree diet. Given that, and its glorious position I'm really surprised they aren't busier. Service by the landlord and his wife was also excellent. The bill, including a drink for the chef and a £5 tip came to under £50 which might seem a tad heavy for one but I did bring over half a bottle of wine home with me. I shall be returning, taking MrsSRD, because, although not completely wheelchair friendly, some areas of the pub are accessible although there are no lavatory facilities for wheelchair users.

Date visited: 10/12/08