Sunday lunch is a big deal for the Grahamslaw clan so I wanted to set up somewhere which would really impress. Eagled-eyed readers will note that I've been playing a lot of golf (if that's what you call it) at Warkworth GC recently an absolute gem of a track. Following on from this we've often enjoyed a 'debrief' at the Hermitage Inn, a cosy country pub set in the heart of Warkworth.
The Hermitage serve fresh food 7 days a week and are locally renowned for their Sunday lunch offering. With this in mind, I packed my wife Lisa and daughter Holly into the car and headed for the picturesque little village.
The Hermitage Inn has all the hallmarks of a traditional hostelry. There’s real log fires, chalkboards telling of the latest specials and a mouthwatering selection of beers on tap. At the front, the snug bar area has a convivial feel whilst at the rear of the property there’s a deceptively large dining room offering extra space. After a warm Northumbrian welcome this is where we took up post, and were pleased to find a number of “reserved” signs on neighbouring tables always a telling barometer.
In terms of choice the menu offers plenty to get your teeth into with starters and main plates available alongside the Sunday carvery consisting of 3 types of meat.
Being somewhat of a traditionalist, I kicked off with a sprightly prawn cocktail whilst Lisa and Holly elected for the Homemade sweet potato & red onion soup. Sans bread for Lisa, who remains on the diet wagon. At least that makes one of us!
The carvery offers the choice of 2 out of 3 meats in our case beef and pork which were both cooked expertly here. This served was served with lightlyseasoned roasties, giant Yorkshire puddings and a huge tureen of vegetables. Safe to say this was all outstanding whilst Holly who fancied a taste of something different reported that her Lasagne was similarly top notch.Throughout our meal, the service was incredibly friendly, landlord Lawrence and his team really do make you feel welcome.
Whether you’re in the area or, like us, looking for a change of scene on a weekend this cracking pub really offers something different. It’s also the perfect antidote to a Sunday morning golfing horrorshow!
