Billed as ‘Your Urban Home From Home’, this freshly refurbished landmark pub has certainly delivered this – a fully open plan layout, a fireplace with wood burner, a flock of flying duck ornaments above it, a moose’s head above that and sky high ceilings. On this winter’s afternoon, it feels like we’ve had a personal invite to this log cabine-sque sanctuary, such is the level of all-round warmth emanating from this parlour, its punters and its staff. I’ve only just sat down with a tankard of 1799 porter and I’m being asked by a smiling waitress if I’d like water for my table.
At my second trip to the bar, I see that there’s a good choice of ales courtesy of Greene King, and a well-stocked top shelf with a range of premium spirits. The wine selection is high-end and bespoke with a Chateauneuf du Pape as the king of the list.
Outside, there’s a cosy, heated smoking area and a more open smoking terrace too, which will be welcome come the spring. Totally transformed, The Village is now a lovely place to be, with friends, with family or with visitors to the city. You feel wanted there and you want to be there.
Ben Calvert
Home Food & Drink
