Blagravia (didcot) in Vale of White Horse

A really very high quality experience. The owners have ensured that everything needed is available, and that there is plenty of space for different groups to use different rooms. All rooms are ensuite, and extra loos on ground and first floor. After the restoration, the place has been wonderfully furnished. Breakfasts were provided and were lovely.

Receptionist on the phone is not very nice at all, sort it out. I don't appreciate being hung up on when I'm in the middle of talking, disgusting.

First time here. Welcoming entrance to a downstairs dining room which had a nice atmosphere. We however weren't seated there but were taken upstairs to a bland smaller dining room with one other couple and a baby. Zero atmosphere. Considering we reserved several weeks in advance this was pretty disappointing. Service was a little slow but the young ladies looking after us were very engaging. The music which kept on coming on and off intermittently was turned off on request. The starters we had were good. The pancetta/cheddar croquettes and goats cheese bon bons were deemed to be the clear winners. My duck parfait and terrine was good but needed toast or some brioche. The parsnip soup was very thick. The pork belly and the venison were excellent. Guinea fowl was a little over and accompanying risotto lacked moisture. My cod was actually cooked nicely but only 3 small leaves of kale doesn't scream of generosity and even though the skin was browned it was no longer crispy by the time it got to me. The outside gents are a little rustic in a kind of old school pub fashion. Bit of a mixed bag really.

Can't fault the service and the food was exceptional. The size of the portions incredible. Not sure we needed the starters. The plates on tables around us just looked amazing. Well done all.

Shut all Friday on the day we went.