Earlier we talked about eating out in Stamford over Christmas to give the head cook in your household a break, and just for a pleasant change. Sometimes it's good to eat in town for convenience, but it's also nice to occasionally take a drive out and around the area and try out some of the superb restaurants in the surrounding countryside.
Take the Hare 'n' Hounds in Greatford for example. This is a typical country pub in an idyllic location offering excellent food and a warm welcome.
If you fancy a drive out to Rutland, then there's the renowned Olive Branch in Clipsham - a gastro-pub well known in the area for its superb cuisine. Also in Rutland, and along by Rutland Water is the Barnsdale Hall Hotel, which offers two restaurants, one with bar food and the other with more traditional Brasserie style offerings, including a Sunday carvery. Along the road and just across from the water is Barnsdale Lodge Hotel and Restaurant which has a great choice of food and serves lunches as well as dinners.
If that's a bit too far afield, then why not try the Royal Oak at Duddington? It's a traditional pub and hotel with a diverse menu.
With so much choice, you could be hard-pressed to make a decision. Whatever you decide, do let us know how you got on.
