Top Places and Services in Blashford

We had spent some time wondering at the country park and decided that we would have a late pub lunch / dinner - opting as we was passing, on the Elm Tree. A few pot holes getting into the car park, and the car park didn't seem too busy... which was promising for a table.

When we got in, we ended up sitting in the bar area as opposed to the restaurant as it was fully booked - no surprise really last minute on a Sunday. The menu wasn't particularly clear about kids meals on a Sunday (it mentioned kids Sunday lunch not any others) this was clarified by the bar staff as they had 'small plates'... although kids meals (or small plates) are a shocking £10! (One had burger and chips, the other fish and chips). The wife and myself had roasts, which were pretty good - albeit ours came out towards the kids finishing theirs. Credit to the staff as we had a chap apologise there had been a mix up, and the manager (I assume) offered us a free drink at the end as well.

Overall, it was OK, I was tempted to score 3 stars due to the meal and wait issue, but I was impressed that they acknowledged it without being prompted, so feel that 4 stars is justified. A bit quicker cleaning tables (I took bits off and gave them to bar when we got seated), some improvements to the menu (particularly for kids - and pricing for kids) and perhaps make the drive into parking a little smoother and then heading in right direction to the 5 stars...

I was a little disappointed with this place. The food was great, and the service was faultless. However, the pub itself lacks atmosphere. It's clearly a sports pub, and the interior decor reflects that. I was expecting something a little more cosy and maybe a little more eclectic as this is an old Thatched Pub. The website photos mainly show the separate wedding venue building and the bar. The setting is lovely, though.
It definitely seemed to be more popular with men who appeared to be regulars. We were the only two women there at the time!
It is dog friendly, which is a big plus!

I have to say this was probably one of the best pubs I’ve been to in years. I came in with no expectations whatsoever - just a quiet night with my daughter chatting about how she was getting on at uni. I was firstly wowed by the menu …some really delicious choices. I went for the monkfish which was absolutely fabulous - all cooked from fresh. My daughter had the burger which she said was also amazing. The staff were so pleasant and friendly and there was a lovely fire to sit in front of with our dog. We had the best evening out. I’m going to come back with my octogenarian mum next time - I know she’ll love it too. Highly recommended.