This is a traditional pub in the pretty and historic village of Ashwell, close to Royston and Baldock. The building itself was originally a "hall house", dating from the late 15th or early 16th centuries, with modifications in the 18th century. It is very well preserved, and has the atmosphere you'd expect from an historic building with low and beamed ceilings!
It has separate bar and dining areas (though the bar has tables, so you can eat there too), and a nice outdoor area for good weather, with a children's play area. There's a small car park (15 vehicles), though street parking is available nearby. Dogs are welcome (but not allowed in the dining area).
They serve lunch and evening meals, with a separate takeaway menu (fish, suasage or burger & chips) and a special Sunday lunch menu. On Mondays and Tuesdays, there is a limited set menu available all day, £18.50 for two courses, £23.50 for three. All menus have vegetarian and vegan options. There's a full bar, with real ales on tap and a decent wine selection.
We had lunch at the Rose & Crown at the end of a 6 mile walk with a local walking group. I had the three egg omelette, with cheese & mushrooms (£10.95), and my other half had the Chicken & bacon club sandwich (£13.95). Both were served with a salad garnish and chunky chips. Both were really good, and we would happily come back and eat here again. Service was friendly and efficient (given there were 15 of us in the one group). read more