Falcon at Hatton, The

Having relatively recently changed hands the new owners have brought back the Falcon to its former glory with an extensive refurbishment. The truly enviable original features await you around every corner mixing this with comfortable modern fixtures, making the Falcon a really wonderful place for all tastes.

After a frantic day, soothe your fraying nerves in one of their 8 double or twin bedrooms; the barn setting may be a touch different but they come equipped to cater well for the modern traveller.

The menu offers thoroughly wholesome, well-presented mainly British food with hearty appetites in mind, albeit with some interesting European and Pacific influences visible on the 'specials' board. Only the finest produce is used, fish coming from day boats to ensure freshness, their meat coming from local butcher Becks and fresh handmade pasta from the truly excellent brigade of chefs.

Tradition leads the way with the ever popular fish and chip supper, which along with succulent Aberdeenshire steaks and slow cooked local lamb shank, confit garlic mash, sticky shallots, red wine and thyme jus will prove that honest British food should be rated amongst the best in the world. Amongst a list of interesting starters keep and eye open for home cured venison, potted brown shrimp, tomato and chilli pork ribs and wild mushroom gratin.

The Falcon's Black Country faggots, prepared with their own recipe, and sautéed king prawns in confit garlic and chilli salt are designed for sharing between two. The dessert selection gives a modern twist to some old school favourites, crumbles, bread and butter pudding, pineapple tart tatin and the ever favourite chocolate fudge brownie which is a joy to share amongst the family. A selection of local cheeses is available to round off a very enjoyable dining experience.

Nor is the liquid refreshment of anything less than a similar standard. For lovers of traditional ales they have on draught Banks, Pedigree and two guest ales that make a formidable quartet indeed. Amongst the wine list expect to find major contributions from Europe and South America, with a good selection from the New World, an inclination that happens to enjoy my personal blessing.

The Falcon at Hatton is a very English place that makes concessions in other directions when it suits, but otherwise remains steadfastly loyal. A visit to the Falcon is strongly recommended to sample the way food, drink and service should be done; find out more from their Website.