The Bullfinch

Once a carvery pub with pool tables & attitude, the refurbished Bullfinch is now the latest addition to the Geronimo Inns portfolio – the second to open outside London. We applaud the elegant refit: working wood fires, groovy light fittings, deep-fill sofas, chunky wood tables & the sophisticated mushroom & cream interior make this a smart & grown-up looking gastropub. Well-sourced, top-notch food from a seasonal (& very reasonably priced) menu might include starters such as ham hock terrine with a wonderfully sharp homemade piccalilli, while smoked haddock & salmon fishcakes with spinach & tartare sauce, or corn-fed chicken with homemade aïoli are good bets at main. Finish off with the zingy & refreshing roasted peaches in marsala with mascarpone & amaretti. The lunchtime deal (£7.50/10 for 2/3 courses) is great value & peckish drinkers can order a cheese & ham toastie or pork pie in the bar. Wines are well chosen, with 20 or so offered by the glass, & there’s a good choice of beers, both on tap & by the bottle. The quarter-acre garden is great for summer alfresco.