The Rising Sun

The Rising Sun had changed beyond all recognition since my previous visit to this country inn only a few weeks earlier. The owners have clearly spent a fortune inside and out and I was pleasantly surprised to find the interior bright, light and airy. The attention to detail is spot on. Everything, from the stone around the fireplaces and on the floor to the blackboards advertising drinks, specials and local producers, has been carefully considered. I was also impressed with the welcome from landlord Stephen and the range of real ales, including guest ales. I happily sat down with a pint of Timothy Taylor Landlord and my partner, Sarah, to dine.

I opted for the black pudding to start, deep fried in batter and served with a crisp apple fritter. The dish was complemented by a subtle Dijon mustard sauce. Sarah chose the chicken paté, which was beautifully presented. Served with sweet, sticky onion relish, the smooth paté had a robust flavour and was obviously homemade. Her chicken, chorizo and cheese burger was huge - certainly good value for money - and the chorizo and cheese added bags of flavour to the juicy chicken breast within. I chose beef Bourguignon with a delightful English twist - it was presented as a pie. The crust was crisp and the gravy thick, hugging huge chunks of tender, lean meat.

The pub looks far more contemporary after the refit but has kept its character and was packed with happy diners during our midweek visit