The Longville Arms, Much Wenlock

A shopping trip for a very special forthcoming day took my mum and I to Much Wenlock for the day — well a few miles outside actually — to the village of Longville,

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After several hours in one particular shop we were both in need of some refreshment and my little boy, who had been extremely patient, was certainly ready for his lunch.

The Longville Arms had a board outside offering lunch and evening meals, including homemade meals and enticed us in.

Inside we were given a warm welcome by regulars at the bar, another couple enjoying their meals and also the friendly young barmaid.

We took a table by the window and a highchair soon arrived — the barmaid was extremely friendly to my one-year-old son and took our drinks order. Within seconds of our arrival another friendly woman (who I believe is the current owner who took over the pub in February) came out of the kitchen with two children's lollipops for Eddie. A nice touch and one which would be appreciated by any parent — anything to keep him quiet or to use as a bribe for him to finish his dinner!

By this stage we'd noticed a common theme — the strong Irish accent. During our lunch we learned from the talk at the bar with the regulars that the barmaid was the owner's niece and had come over from Ireland. It seemed she had her sisters there too and perhaps her dad who was enjoying a pint of Guinness at the bar. He also commented on Eddie as he crawled around on the floor after I had finally released him from the high chair after he had eaten the little he wanted. This was obviously a very family orientated and family-run pub.

Dogs were also given a warm welcome, as the couple who sat next us had their dog with them.

Anyway on to the food — the menu was surprisingly extensive — with offerings of light bites, sandwiches, main meals and homemade specials.

I must admit I was torn but eventually opted for the steak, stilton and onion ciabatta served with skinny fries and salad. I asked for no stilton as I'm not a lover and the kind barmaid offered me cheddar instead which I accepted.

After seeing the deep fried plaice on the neighbouring table, served with chips and salad or vegetables Mum ordered that. Her meal was served with chunky chips, and although not homemade they were crisp, light brown and tasty. Both the salad and the chips were served separately so you could help yourself to as little or as many as you wanted. I always think presentation is the key and this always helps, rather than piling the plate high with food.

My ciabatta was tasty and although when I saw the sirloin was cooked a little more rare than I would have chosen, it actually tasted lovely and was extremely tender. With the full-fat cheese on top and the fried onions — it soon disappeared.

Mum's plaice in breadcrumbs was cooked just right and the chunky chips and salad went perfectly.

Although we would have loved to try the desserts and even stay for a coffee, the clock was ticking so we had to go. After paying the bill which came to just under £20 for two main meals and two drinks — we were more than satisfied.

And with many goodbyes as we left and the barmaid in her lovely Irish tone saying "thanks a million" - we felt we were friends already. They certainly know how to give a warm welcome.

Although as already mentioned the pub could do with a bit of a facelift on the outside, it was refreshing to see a traditional pub on the inside.

The chunky wooden tables and chairs gave a bit of a more modern look to the pub but on the whole it was what would be expected of a good-old village pub "like they used to be".

It's a shame we didn't have time to sample starters, desserts or anything else on the menu but if they are of the same standard as the rest of the meals then I'm sure they'll reach the mark.

No, The Longville Arms isn't fine dining but it is good quality with excellent service "pub grub" with a homemade touch to some of the meals on the menu, including homemade chilli and lasagne.

Oh and for those with a big appetite and who enjoy a good fry-up, the menu offers a Farmer's brunch and after enquiring I was told it was a fry up with everything, including chips. It sounded too much for me but I must admit I was tempted!

If you're passing, call in and don't be put off by the outside of the pub and for those in Much Wenlock it's certainly worth a short drive or for anyone travelling to Church Stretton. If everyone could give a such a warm welcome as this family did then I'm sure everyone's business would do well.

ADDRESS

The Longville Arms (bar, restaurant & accommodation), Longville in the Dale, Much Wenlock TF13 6DT

Tel: 01694 771206

MENU SAMPLE

STARTERS

Grilled sardines cooked in garlic butter and topped with rich tomato sauce (£6); Mozzarella, beetroot and pesto salad (£5.50)

MAINS

Pan roasted venison carved onto a mustard mash with a port and cranberry sauce (£13); Sea bass sat on a bed of Provencal vegetables with a duo of dressings, pesto and sweet pepper (£14)

SIDES

Cheesy chips (£1.50); Garlic bread (£2)

PUDDINGS

Caroline's ginger and black pepper pudding, served with custard and ice cream (£4.75); Summer Fruit Pudding (£4.75)