WHY we have not visited this venue before is a mystery. Its advert appears often enough in the Evening Press. But having got there, what a find.

There is a pensioners' lunch between noon and 2pm daily except Sunday. Three courses for only £5.45. For evening diners, an Early Bird supper is available between 6pm and 7pm for £6.95.

To start, Ann chose soup of the day (squash and red pepper), while I tackled pat, toast, sweet pepper chutney and garnish. We were both highly satisfied and in no way out-faced. The size of helping was just right.

Roast of the day (pork) with Yorkshire pudding set Ann drooling. Together with fresh cauliflower, broccoli, carrots and new potatoes it was not long before she had a clean plate.

Grilled salmon and chicken a la king with rice are not favourites of mine. This left one alternative, steak and kidney pie. Tender meat, plenty of kidney, light pastry and tasty gravy would probably have been enough without the helping of chips. Ann sneaked more than one of the chips and declared them to be excellent, compensating for a recent experience elsewhere. I too soon cleared my plate.

Ann found the profiteroles on the bland side, but not so the chocolate sauce. My pud was perfect, clearly home-made apple pie with cream.

But you don't have to have the three-course meal.

Soup and other starters, hot baguettes and sandwiches were all priced well within our budget. The lunchtime specials on the other hand are slightly more expensive.

Despite its remote location there were more than 30 people eating when we called. A cheerful waitress and two equally pleasant males made up the staff.

Why Jacobean? Breastplates, swords and other battle artefacts give the game away. However there are other equally interesting bits and pieces on display.

What more can I say? Try it for yourself.

Updated: 08:50 Saturday, October 25, 2003