The Inn Crowd

Having spent six weeks in Bordeaux as part of my university degree, I thought I would combine a trip home with a nice spot of pub grub with my family.

Ready to leave the baguettes and pastries behind for a weekend, I was delighted to visit St Mary’s Inn, a firm family favourite offering the delicious home comforts I had eagerly been yearning for.

Situated near Morpeth in Northumberland, St Mary’s Inn boasts a relaxed restaurant, 11 countrystyle bedrooms and two private function rooms available for both corporate and leisure events. Offering various dining options including afternoon tea, Sunday lunch and catering for weddings, on this occasion we decided to sample the restaurant’s à la carte menu with a spot of late lunch.

Ready to warm the cockles on a crisp autumnal day, we were instantly impressed by the venue’s relaxed and cosy atmosphere. Underpinning the restaurant is a farmhouse feel with inviting, leisurely spaces, comfortable seating and rustic fires. With much local produce on offer, the venue provides classic British favourites, as well as a unique tapas menu and numerous vegetarian/vegan options. Served in hearty, plentiful portions, generosity appears at the heart of St Mary’s Inn, with the ample food offering complementing the warm and friendly hospitality that we received throughout.

Feeling famished, we were thrilled by the arrival of our starters. Whilst I enjoyed the delicious cauliflower soup, a warm and delicious dish embellished with a curried onion fritter, my Mum sampled the mouth-watering prawn cocktail accompanied by pickled cucumber and wholemeal bread. Meanwhile, my Dad devoured the tasty crispy squid served with zingy Asian salad and peanut butter dressing, which proved a unique addition to the traditionally British cuisine on offer. The starters were extremely flavoursome and nutritious, providing an example of the highquality fare that is served at St Mary’s Inn.

Next up were the mains and what a treat they were. I tasted the roast chicken supreme accompanied by all the usual fixtures & fittings including steamed mash, king oyster mushrooms and fresh vegetables. Whilst my Mum was also delighted by the salt and vinegar battered haddock and chips, my Dad sampled the piquant Thai green curry. An aromatic fusion of spices served with roasted sweet potato, rice and naan, the dish evidently offered an explosion of flavours. Sometimes a little bit of what you fancy really hits the spot and this proved to be comfort food at its absolute finest.

Looking to satisfy my sweet tooth, I savoured the heavenly dark chocolate brownie, a luscious dessert complemented by rich white chocolate ice cream. Along with coffees and teas, this proved a fitting end to the thoroughly pleasant afternoon we spent at St Mary’s Inn.

Whilst on this occasion we were delighted by the full three-course shebang, the restaurant also offers a plethora of lunch options for the less greedy folk out there. This includes traditional British sandwiches including roast stottie of the day, as well as a unique ‘soup and a sandwich’ option.

Feeling replete, we left St Mary’s Inn having enjoyed a meal to remember. With relaxed and comfortable surroundings, St Mary’s Inn offered us exceptional, hearty food coupled with excellent service and friendly hospitality. All in all, a unique family favourite that we can’t wait to return to.