The Scole Hotel

It was precisely one degree outside and we were in need of warming up in body and spirit. Our visit turned out to be a roaring success, not least stoked up by a roaring log fire in the huge inglenook fireplace, a few paces back from which we secured four comfortable easy chairs. A cosy and warm position from which we found it hard to remove ourselves 90 minutes later. It wasn't just the fire that we enjoyed. We were there for drinks and a meet-up with family/friends and were greeted by the excellent bar team member, Malachi who served us throughout with great spirit and competence. He was exceptionally well groomed and presented; he spoke well and asked all the right questions. We were not eating, nor staying in one of the rooms. But the impression I received is that this inn, steeped in history, no matter which nook and cranny you find yourself in, is there to be appreciated by all, even if just popping in for drinks on a cold January Saturday lunchtime. The bar doesn't quite have the country house hotel look, but comfortable and attractive enough. It's from the courtyard at the rear of the building that you really get to appreciate the place. The selection of beers wasn't great, but there was something for everyone. After two rounds of drinks we were asked by Malachi - without leaving our seats - if we wanted more. The place was clean and welcoming; the toilets were fresh, clean and working. I don't know what can have caused so many negative comments, some from just a few months back, but all of our group would have happily eaten in the bar here, just like the table of 4 next to us who seemed well satisfied with their typical pub food fare. Maybe this is the place to try an inexpensivve quick lunch first before moving on to a more special and higher spend diinner. Then I think you might fall in love with the Scole Inn and with a bit of luck you will be served by Malachi with his generous smile,