A Warm Welcome at The Woolpack

Living Magazines The Woolpack Stoke Mandeville

Coming from the same stable as The Bell, which we reviewed a couple of months ago, we had high hopes for The Woolpack, in Stoke Mandeville, which has recently been refurbished – and we were not disappointed.

Both are Premium Country Pubs, a collection of individual pubs located in some of the more beautiful locations in the UK.

Living Magazines The Woolpack real fireAs you walk in you are met by wood beams, real fires and a lovely warm ambience, which is echoed by the staff’s warm welcome. These venues really stand out by the quality and obviously detailed training of their staff – the level of hospitality is set incredibly high.

As we walked to our table, we could see that the same eclectic style of decor has been used at the Woolpack – it makes for a place where there is something interesting to see at every turn – and a real treat if you’re used to chain locations with identikit layouts.

Living Magazines The Woolpack interior

Where we sat, there were large French windows leading out onto the patio, which would be lovely for a summer location – and with curtains closing off the area, we imagine it would be perfect for a large birthday celebration, or even a small wedding or anniversary event.

We ordered a Garlic & Mozzarella Pizzette to nibble on while we chose from the comprehensive menu.

Living Magazines The Woolpack Pan-fried King Prawns with Chilli & FetaThe food did not disappoint – a delicious prawn dish (Pan-fried King Prawns with Chilli & Feta) with a sweet tomato sauce, cut through with the salty cheese feta was a particular favourite. As was the Creamy Sauteed Paris Brown & Mixed Mushrooms, served with bread for dipping..

We both went for the steak (one fillet, one rib-eye), although there were other delights including Rack of Lamb with Chorizo, Pan-fried Seabass Fillets & Chorizo, and Candied Root Vegetable Bake. The Maple-Glazed Rotisserie Pork Belly & Scallops sounded tempting too.

One new discovery were the Billionaires fries – crisp on the outside and finished with parmesan, prosciutto and truffle oil. We highly recommend that even if you’re just popping in for a drink you order a portion – though be warned you may be hooked!

Desserts followed – a sticky toffee pudding with a luxurious bourbon ice cream and a perfect creme brulee.

We finished off with a house creation – an autumnal cocktail of prosecco, Bombay Sapphire Gin and blackberries. A perfect finish.

As well as the all-day menu, there’s a Sunday menu, lunch menus with lighter bites – and the Woolpack also welcomes children and has a dedicated children’s menu.

Visit the Woolpack at www.woolpackstokemandeville.co.uk.