Completely unspoiled little gem, hidden away in the village of Hovringham, a lazy Sunday stroll away from the banks of the River Trent and just down the road from commendable, tempting (but pricey) Gonalston Farm Shop. Nothing special to look at from it's facade, a touch - dare I say it - rundown, utterly authentic, messy, charmingly authentic and rough around the edges. Inside, a nice discovery: a communal library of old paperbacks and videos left by the villagers. You can tell a lot about the clientele from it's collective reading choices - a bit of William Boyd, a pinch of Binchy, a shiver of bestselling thrillers - make of it what you will. The bar area is refreshingly untouched by gastropub styling (no cream walls and brown leather sofas). This is distinctly, cheekily retro - probably no change since the 70s - with creaky chairs, scarred tables, crap decorations, and an unashamedly roaring, smoky fire. Chummy, unpretentious and friendly. Superbly kept local ales from Castle Rock and Caythorpe Breweries. Free papers, real characters, an affectionate Ginger pub cat, and a no-fuss, gutsy country pub menu. Food is no frills 'proper' crowd-pleasing favourites cooked with real love. Prices are good and come as a surprise given the consistency and quality. Within half an our you feel as comfortable as a local and that is rare quality to enjoy. Highly recommended, but don't tell everyone!!
