I suppose the best description of the Blacksmiths at Clayworth is GastroPub with rooms, but that doesn’t really cut it. If you check the website it doesn’t do it justice. I’ll try to upload photos below. From the road it is a pretty but unremarkable country pub, the only significant thing is the number of high end cars. The restaurant and bar are large, on two floors and a clever mix and traditional (shout out for Timothy Taylors). The rooms are across the driveway. They are individually styled, ours was the Forge. Superbly appointed with large bathroom with shower. Superking bed, chairs, and everything you would hope to be provided with including a coffee machine. A short exploration found the hidden secret, a door leading to a small, private mini garden/patio with bistro table and 2 chairs.
A leisurely drink revealed its hidden charms, a beautifully kept beer garden, perfect for al fresco dining and the big blackboards with the specials. Everything on them, especially the fish, was “WOW”, except for the prices which were very reasonable. I won’t bore with a list of the menu, just what we had. I had hand picked crab on toast (you would have to taste to appreciate), my wife had scallops in the shell, served on a raised tray similar to the way oysters are served. We both had veal chops. All the pub classics are available but this was another level. We were treated like VIPs. The wine list had everything from the budget friendly to the “HOW MUCH”. Breakfast was mostly traditional with quality local ingredients with the option of the Billingsgate Breakfast which includes scallops.
All in all this was an excellent place to celebrate our Emerald Anniversary.
