The Spaniards Inn

I'm here to defend this fine establishment!

The past reviews surprise me, but I fear this may be something to do with the phenomenon that many reviews are only penned on the back of a bad experience.

I can't drop a point for atmosphere. This place is steeped in history as a highwaymans' hideout. Rumour also has it that the gunpowder plot conspirators were supposed to come here to watch the aftermath parliament's destruction. Is this an urban myth. I don't know, but it works for me. Ghost of the past occupy every nook and cranny of this building.

The food is possibly a bit overpriced, but I'm happy to pay a premium to maintain this listed building. Besides, it's still cheaper than some modern pubs. Overall I'm happy with it. From my point of view, I get a lot of bang for my buck here. The food itself is fine too. It's good old-fashioned pub grub, but done quite well. Generous portions too. Sometimes they also list recommended ales alongside the food on the menu. I quite like this touch.

The service is changeable. Overall it's good enough. It's best when there's no-one around. But if you're there during a busy period, I can well understand customers being left out.

Bottom line, however, is that I love this place to bits. I've been coming for a long time now and will continue to do so.
Comment on this reader review

Alan Ingham - View all reviews by this user
9 Overall rating
Food 8 | Service 7 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 9
Tuesday, October 04, 2011