Having enjoyed some great pub lunches of late, we decided to continue the theme by sampling the Killingworth Arms in Killingworth Village.
With its cheery staff and cosy embrace, the pub is a firm favourite amongst locals, yet has also garnered wider renown for its food offering; particularly their award-winning carvery lunches. On a rare day off, this sounded like just the ticket so we headed up to the pub which is within walking distance of our homes.
The pub occupies a leafy setting in the old mining village, whilst inside it feels homely and characterful. Shades of mulled red warm the snug bar area whilst the adjacent conservatory offers further dining space.
One thing which is always guaranteed is a warm Geordie welcome. There was certainly no exception here as we settled in over a couple of pints (needs must as I was watching Newcastle United that evening).
Beer drinkers will rejoice as there’s an extensive selection of the good stuff on tap, whilst foodies can look forward to a surprising number of dishes. All dishes are freshly-prepared and I’m pleased to report, this is wholesome comfort food at its very best. In addition to the signature carvery, there’s also a vibrant tapas menu (more on this later) and a selection of pub classics, think; Steak & Ale Pie, Chilli Con Carne and Mince & Dumplings “Just like ya mams”.
As we knew from experience, the portions here are very generous, so we sagely body-swerved starters in favour of bread and olives.
The carvery here strives to be one of the besttasting, best-value ones in the land and today proved no different. Diners are given the choice of up to four meats, in this instance; beef, lamb, pork and turkey. The meat is carved by the kitchen’s genial chef whilst all the trimmings are housed nearby in huge tureens. The girls waded in with gusto and both agreed that this remains one of the best in the business.
My pal Michael and I fancied trying something a little different with the pub’s tapas menu catching our eye. There’s some great value available with 3 tapas and a bottle of good house wine available for £20 perfect for a business lunch.
Dishes are smartly presented on slider sharing boards and draw upon a number of different cuisines. King prawns were seasoned with garlic and served on a rice timbale with sweet chilli sauce. Beef had been cooked masterfully in an oriental black bean sauce with chunks of fresh pepper and onion. Finally, the
homemade chicken curry loaded with fresh chillies for extra firepower was unquestionably the pick of the bunch.
Even for seasoned troughers like us, dessert was looking a tall order though we did file a mental note to come back and try the spotted dick and warm chocolate brownie.
We instead enjoyed coffees and another couple of pints (like I say, I was watching Newcastle United that evening) whilst soaking up the atmosphere of this cracking village pub.
Landlord, Paul Trett, is an enterprising guy who always endeavours to try new things. As well as their vaunted food offering, there’s a Sunday poker night and hugely popular Tuesday quiz. Friday night sees, resident DJ Johnny Blaze, spin the silky sounds of the 60’s and 70’s. I can assure you there’s always a few sore heads around the parish the following morning.
In addition, the pub also does a brisk teatime trade with a “Push the Button” happy hour taking place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 5pm 7pm.
All in all, this is a gem of a local pub which always extends a warm welcome to visitors. A great place to spend a well-earnt day off.
