River & Rail, Hampton Loade

Reviewer's rating **** After a year of driving past no less than five signs for the River & Rail pub twice daily, I finally decided that it was about time I went to investigate, writes Tania Taylor.

Reviewer's rating * * * *

After a year of driving past no less than five signs for the River & Rail pub twice daily, I finally decided that it was about time I went to investigate...

Close to the banks of the River Severn in the village of Hampton Loade tucked away sits an inviting country inn, which has its own car park, relaxing gardens that are child (and pet!) friendly, with plenty of seating and tables.

A pathway and steps lead up to the main entrance adjacent to an outside terrace that's covered and heated so you can enjoy a bite-to-eat or drink whatever the weather.

As you step inside you are almost at once at the bar where we were warmly greeted by the staff and immediately absorbed the relaxed atmosphere - not feeling like 'outsiders'.

The dŽcor is very traditional, local historic photographs and newspaper clippings adorn the walls and we also spotted a very useful information board listing local attractions - such as the Severn Valley Railway which can be reached by crossing on the local ferry just a small stroll away.

Stuart pointed out a Nintendo Wii, something to keep the children out of mischief or maybe the adults!

We were seated in the restaurant area at a quiet table on the outside of the room which suited us fine. There were a few tables occupied but it was soon to get full, making it advisable to book in advance.

The main 2-for-1 menu (lowest priced meal free) includes 10 dishes along with two specials boards - with a further 10 choices including vegetarian options.

For starters Stuart opted for the crispy duck and hoi sin parcels which he commented were refreshingly crisp and filled generously, and I chose the sun-dried tomato and goats' cheese tart.

The cheese and tomato topping was drizzled in a basil pesto which melted into a flaky puff pastry base which complemented it well, as it was light and not too filling. Both starters were garnished with a fresh pepper, tomato and red onion salad - the onion was a bit hot, in fact nose-burning as we both discovered!

Our plates were promptly cleared when we finished and our mains followed in what only seemed like a few minutes. I would have preferred just a little more time to enjoy a sip of my wine and let my starter settle, though Stu was happy as he was quite ravenous.

Stuart had chosen one of the day's specials - the 'surf & turf'. Out came a large plate much to his delight with an 8oz sirloin steak and a generous portion of golden scampi and home cooked chunky chips.

I opted for the homely slow roasted lamb shoulder, potatoes of the day (new potatoes, sauteed then fried) and seasonal veg.

Stu's steak was cooked medium as ordered, and as cliched as it sounds, melted in his mouth. His scampi was of a healthy size, crispy and full of flavour, the chips were "proper chips . . . chunky just how they should be" to put it in his words!

My lamb and potatoes were served in a mint and rosemary gravy with celery, peas, carrots and a further side plate of fresh seasonal vegetables.

The meat was succulent and slipped from the bone, the gravy rich and full of flavour, and the potatoes fresh and perfectly seasoned.

This was certainly a good sized meal which was a bit too much for me and I regret that I had to leave most, if not nearly all of my side plate of vegetables.

I found the veg in the main dish were satisfying enough and in future I'd definitely ask them to hold the side dish if I was intending on having a starter and or pudding.

As we tucked into our main courses we noticed that almost every table was now full and the staff although busy seemed to be coping well. There was friendly chatting and laughter between all and I was under the impression that there were a few regulars dining that night.

Stu's plate was cleared and I, although not able to clear my plate, enjoyed my meal thoroughly.

After changing my mind several times I eventually decided on the Eton mess pud which was worth saving room for.

It was packed with plump berries which burst with flavour, covered with a sweet crisp meringue, topped with fresh cream and a strawberry.

What a discovery! I'm not sure why it's taken me so long to venture down this way? Stu and I often jump in the car without a destination planned looking for somewhere new to visit so for us this was a hidden gem.

The staff are friendly and welcoming, the food is freshly prepared on the premises and has an authentic, comforting and homely taste with plenty of choice to suit any palate.

MENU SAMPLE

Starters

Salmon and dill fishcakes (£4.75); chicken liver and black pudding pate (£4.95)

Main courses

Butternut squash and spinach with cannelloni (£9.95); half roasted duck (£16.95)

Desserts Seasonal fruit crumble (£3.95); sticky toffee pudding (£4.25)

ATMOSPHERE

Friendly and welcoming in a relaxing location

SERVICE

Attentive and helpful

DISABLED FACILITIES

Could be a little difficult for access though staff willing to assist. Seek advise beforehand. No disabled toilets.