Bull and Swan, The

The Bull and Swan in High Street St Martins at Stamford has fond connections for many Stamfordians, including this one, for whom it was a vital point of refreshment after bell-ringing at the nearby church was completed. A handsome building with fine stone mullioned windows it has an immediate feeling of warmth and history and a recent change in ownership (2005) has given a new lease of life, without causing the wholesale loss of character sometimes associated with what has come to be known as a "refurb".

An excellent range of beers covers some of the less well known favourites, including Deuchars IPA, Batemans, Adnams and other delights.

Excellent food is served in rooms adjoining the bars, the courtyard which has covered, heated when necessary, accommodation, or spaces in the garden. The menu could be described as broadly brasserie with modern additions, but it certainly packs them in and the inn is close enough to the centre of Stamford to be popular at lunchtimes.

This is the hotel area of Stamford where dining in prices can be both high and the meals variable in quality. The presence of a traditional inn selling decent food at prices that compare well is a welcome boost to those looking for something unpretentious and good value.