Based on 146 opinions finded in 1 websites
Opinions
We booked for Sunday lunch at 12 o'clock. When we arrived we were shown to our table. The drinks order was taken. Then the girl came back to take our order. We sat for 40 minutes waiting for our lunch. People were coming in after us and getting their food before us. When I asked the girl where our food was, she replied it's taking longer because we ordered a side order of cauliflower cheese." The table that came in after us were on there puddings, before we got our main. We have not been for a while, thought we would try it again. But was very disappointed. Will not be going back.
mumphy555 . 2024-09-06
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Had another visit , had to wait over an hour and a quarter to get our meals. They were a Fish pie and a Bubble and Squeak with sausages and eggs ,fish pie was OK but the eggs were over cooked (hard ) ,sausages were hard and the bubble was only warm . Not a good evening after waiting so long . My wife would have had a sweet , but not tonight .
OLDBOY . 2024-08-07
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Arrived at 12.14pm for a quick single course lunch. Had reserved a table and were told to pick anyone we like, but was unlaid. The dinks wewre served promptly and asked for a few more minutes to study the 5 sides of A4 menu. The waiter did not ereturn and afterabout 15 mins managed to attract attension to take our order which was a Beef Lasagne and a chicken Breast. This took over 35 mins to arrive, the Lasagne we were told held it up beause it was freshly made, rubbish. The Lasagne was done to death, black at the dish edges and the Chicken in Stilton sauce was the strangest shaped breast I have ever seen, the chips were hard and over cooked and the Stilto sauce best deskribed as gravy so thin you could see through it. We ate up and got out as fast as we coul. at 13.32pm, hardly a quick pub lunch. This is the second time we have recently eaten and service was slow then. The menu is extensive and needs rationalising to speed service it is not a fine dining restaurant
Leslie W . 2024-07-12
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Well it was very busy on the night we visited , sad to say the food was not up to the usual standard . After waiting over an hour the food arrived , the portion size was very small on nearly all the plates (the potatoes ,peas , etc ).The food was all cooked well but it was only the extras that spoilt the meals .
OLDBOY . 2024-06-28
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What a find! Nice and clean room, heating that worked! Accessible wet room/ shower. Very comfortable. Pub is very nice with friendly staff who were so very helpful. I didn't eat here,only because I wasn't sure what time I would arrive, so ate en route. Absolutely recomend for solo travellers , will defo return as its amazing value and a great location. 5 stars is not enough thankyou.
Bev R . 2024-05-29
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We do come here quite a lot , tonight we ordered a Scampi £11.95 and a Chicken and ham pie £12.95 .Both the meals were excellent ,hot and good sized portions I particularly enjoyed the roast potatoes with my pie . For a sweet my wife had a Cheesecake £6.95 again excellent.
Rover201457 . 2024-04-10
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Popped in for a coffee and breakfast with the family , great service , food was very nice , very enjoyable time , will definately return , dog friendly too 👍👍👍
Martam72769907 . 2024-02-25
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9 of us dined on a Thursday evening. We were welcomed in by Ethan, who was warm and helpful. The dining area was clean and a table large enough for us was arranged. We have several picky and difficult eaters in our group, but they were more than helpful and happy to accommodate our many requests. The food was fresh and yummy, with good sized portions. My spaghetti and no-meat balls was gorgeous. Special mention to the spinach and ricotta canneloni - it was amazing. The 'big boys' among our group really enjoyed their burgers and chips, and they were plenty big enough. We had a birthday, so Ethan was very kind to bring out the cake we supplied, with candles for the birthday boy. Neighbouring diners joined in with the Happy Birthday song! Overall, a lovely Birthday meal and it didn't break the bank.
Kirsty J . 2024-01-19
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My husband and I enjoyed two marvellous breakfasts at the Carpenters. The food and the service from Phil were exceptional. The breakfasts were filling and the ingredients all tasted exceptional. All for a reasonable price which included tea and coffee. We would definitely recommend and we will visit again soon.
Alison W . 2024-01-11
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We visited again tonight (6 adults) the meals were all different . All the meals were excellent, hot and well cooked with good sized portions . For puddings 3 had sweets which were all different again , no problems again .I would like to say how friendly the young staff and nothing is too much trouble for them . Will definitely be back .
Rover201457 . 2023-12-30
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Came here for breakfast for three of us including a sausage for the dog it was £30. Breakfast comes with a hot drink but it's a bit extra for a latte. The pub is a typical old English pub, it's got a nice home feel about it and it's fantastic that it is dog friendly, the dogs even have their own menu! The breakfast was good but what let it down for us is the sausages are the cheap ones you would find at your typical street cafe. We also found the latte very weak. Staff are friendly and helpful and overall was a nice experience.
lovetoreview4u . 2023-11-12
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Lovely breakfast and reasonable price. Love coming here when visiting my daughter. Such a nice pub in lovely surroundings
BernoLiverpool . 2023-10-06
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Stayed a couple of nights as we were visiting friends in the area. Tried to email regarding my booking but got no response! Friendly welcome. Basic room in need of modernisation. No option of a double bed, only singles! Breakfast not included (was available as an extra, but not till 09.30) was nice We eat there one evening as well which was also fine.
JB-Cyprus . 2023-07-02
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Food was excellent but took a massive amount of time to come out, as did the drinks. We waited 45 minutes for our desserts and then when I chased was told there had been a “communication error” with the kitchen. When we arrived they had no record of our booking. There was one waitress who was racing about, loudly asking people to get out of her way. Twice she knocked my mums head as she raced past and didn’t apologise and she very nearly walked straight into my pregnant sister. Given this a Father’s Day dinner, it was pretty disappointing. I understand it’s a busy day for them, but that should come with preparation. Ie extra staff!
Maria2408 . 2023-06-18
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We were told that all food would be freshly cooked to order. My starter was whitebait but was so over cooked I couldn’t taste the fish, it was like eating a bit of burnt batter the same goes for my scampi main. Steaks were also over cooked aswell although asked for medium rare. Young lad that served us was very polite and helpful but the lady in charge maybe needs some training in people skills. Will not be going back and I do not recommend.
alisontK3400BW . 2023-05-16
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Food was ok, price was good. Downside was the waiter / Barperson took our order and then told us that two things were not on there, should of told us before we ordered. Also had to ask for a missing starter and then missing parts to main course, not avery enjoyable night as there was an a female friend of the bar person who sat there making stupid noises and being very loud the whole night. Land lady was two shades to the wind as well. I would recomend breakfast and lunch but not for a quiet family meal. Shame but it looks like the waiting staff are not efficient or enthusiastic. Wont be going back
Gimp B . 2023-04-23
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Recently visited for a family birthday, enjoyed the evening, food was really good, and service was good too. Only slight negative was that the food took quite a while to be served. Having said that it was piping hot, and clearly freshly cooked. Have used the Carpenters for breakfast too on several occasions, and it has always been fantastic. The place could do with a bit of a refurbishment, especially the loos, but we love it. Popping back later this week for some live music, and an overnight stop.
Peircey1966 . 2023-03-26
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Visited as a party of four for breakfast. All had variations of the full English. Great service and lovely food. Highly recommended
Vincent M . 2023-03-07
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Popped in for a meal as heard the food was good but on arrival we had to wait a fair while to be seated even though only 4 tables in progress then took another ten minutes to get a drink. Food took ages to arrive and then ordered a side that came out half way through the meal..
benn0u . 2023-01-01
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Booked our small offices Christmas meal at the Carpenters Arms about a month ago to attend yesterday following several good reports about the food. We asked if we needed to give our choices in advance and were told no, select on the day. Arrived about 2 minutes late, the table was waiting and the rather brusque waitress came across quite quickly to take our order and said they were very busy and it was best to order promptly as there could be up to a 45 min delay. Whilst we felt a little rushed, we did order and the starters came relatively quickly and I have to say were very nice. Unfortunately that was all the food we got. An hour and three quarters after our arrival, we asked for the second time how long our food would be, we were fobbed off by the dis-interested waitress the first time, and couldn't be given any indication so we cancelled our order and left. It seemed to be a real Fred Karno's operation, with little interest in customer service. The table next to us suffered a similar experience and followed us out. You may serve good food but you need to be a lot quicker.
John S . 2022-12-16
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Lovely atmosphere for our first office Xmas shindig in 3 years. Good food plentiful and tasty. All the lunchtime staff welcoming. Would strongly recommend.
Langfordlake . 2022-12-07
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A week before we went for breakfast, which was yummy, so we decided we should go there for a meal. We are a family of 6 and all ordered different things. We had booked a table, when we arrived we were told there is a 45mins wait on food, we didn’t really mind, so we waited. Not once did they ask us if we would like more drinks. Our table was outside the kitchen and the waitress every time she opened the door she would have stern words with the staff, while the door was open. Not professional. When we got our food, we ordered different things. The plates were hot and chips were really hot. I ordered chicken, which was overcooked. Husband ordered ham, eggs and chips, the eggs had obviously been kept warm, overcooked and looked like rubber and the ham was very thinly sliced. It’s typical pub food!
sleafordSwindon . 2022-08-20
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Excellent food . After a long day at work...it's nice to have a warm welcome and very friendly staff... Charlie Kerri and Charlotte. Thank you for your excellent customer service. Analyn &Peter
petedc2014 . 2022-08-02
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We stayed two nights in two singles. Spacious rooms and nice comfy beds. A real bonus were the ceiling fans in the rooms: as ground floor rooms not wanting to open windows at night this was great. One room had walk in shower the other a shower over bath - could do with a handrail though. Food in pub very good - lasagne excellent - and friendly helpful staff. They were doing very good trade on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings we were there so obviously a popular place with locals. Very quiet even though just off A420. The rooms are away from the main pub set around a courtyard so very nice and quiet and private. Only downside is the paving in the courtyard and on approach to rooms is VERY loose and wobbly: tricky to walk on especially as one of us has a balance problem. Otherwise we had a very pleasant stay and excellent value at £45 a night. (We provided our own breakfast as they don't serve until 10.00 a.m. which was too late for us, but that was no problem.)
115rm . 2022-07-29
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Make sure you're a regular at this place if you want any kind of reasonable service otherwise prepare to be ignored and when you are served, expect second rate service
Kate P . 2022-07-10
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We visited on a Sunday and the restaurant wasn’t busy. We are two adults, one child and a dog. The greeting was friendly and the service swift. However, one meal arrived much later than the others and the food we ordered for the dog did...
RobinNathan . 2022-06-26
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Called in to try the breakfasts ,they were excellent and included a pot of tea as well.Well worth a visit for a well a cooked breakfast hot and tasty .
Rover201457 . 2022-06-11
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I met my Auntie here on Wednesday. After several calls and messages left, they finally confirmed my booking. Upon arrival we were sat and was'nt overly busy at that time. However after ordering hunters chicken and an omelette we waited 45 minutes, then someone came...
F3169JLjennyc . 2022-05-08
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We had a lovely meal at the Carpenters Arms. The staff were very friendly and helpful as was the chef who popped out towards the end of the meal. The pub is very dog friendly to the extent that they do what they call Mutt...
626chrisp . 2022-02-23
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Excellent customer service with every single member of staff...Kaitlin,Charlie & Eathan very polite and always received a very warm welcome. Service with a smile. I believe this is all credited to the manager. Many thanks Analyn & Peter Cox
18analync . 2022-02-19
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Can't believe we've only just found this gem .. lived in Swindon all my life .. Very accommodating with food (thanks Clare) and didn't disappoint 😃 all staff very friendly (thanks Yvonne) will definitely be visiting again .. as it happens, booked for Sunday 👍👍👍😄😄😄
Shezza8965 . 2021-11-26
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We were staying in the area for 7nights and went to The Carpenters Arms for 3 of those nights. My parents are real foodies and loved the traditional home cooked food from stew to faggots. The dog had a meal every night. He had a...
bec_em1 . 2021-11-03
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Looked for a dog friendly pub which served food and found the Carpenter’s Arms. On arrival, we were greeted warmly by the friendly staff and were seated in the bar area. The menu was extensive and had something to suit everyone. When faced with a...
stivean . 2021-10-27
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The food is just ok, quite limited and not in any way gastro food. So if the service is no good then there is little to recommend it. We have eaten here several times and each time the service lets us down. Orders for desserts...
SwindonRower . 2021-09-26
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Needed somewhere to have some lunch and found Carpenters Arms - lovely food and welcoming staff - enjoyed it so much went back for dinner and again for breakfast each time food was lovely, staff welcoming and very helpful they went above and beyond!
Nikkipen . 2021-08-29
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We arrived looking for some lunch. We were welcomed as soon as we entered the door by friendly staff, who gave a very good service. The food was great and very well priced considering some pubs are hiking prices due to covid loss of earnings....
Leedc1971 . 2021-08-20
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Stopped here by chance to avoid traffic jam and we are so glad we did. What a gem of a place. Staff are very friendly and accommodating. Food was piping hot and the steak and ale pie is to die for!! Great menu choices, good...
Superdriver . 2021-06-28
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Dog friendly, beer garden is great and the marquee has worked really well over the last few months. beer is always good (Arkells 3B's and Hop on at the moment) and the food was excellent today. Too many good food choices and was very well...
DelHall . 2021-06-27
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We popped in on the way home from a trip to wales. We did not book, they were very welcoming. Nice menu, we opted for the Sunday roast, large portions and very reasonably priced. Great choice of puddings as well! Definitely worth a visit.
SarahGowdy . 2021-06-06
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Although a bit nippy in the marquee the food was delicious, really hot and served efficiently. Pleasant service and reasonable prices. Will revisit when we can eat inside.
sandrasmyth51 . 2021-04-29
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If you like proper home cooked, well made food you'll love the Carpenters.The beer is well kept and always a couple of Arkells ales on.the staff are always great and look after you.It is dog friendly and we do enjoy our Friday nights at the Carpenters.
DelHall . 2021-04-23
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The outside area is nice, lovely cappuccino, friendly staff, the food is overpriced for the quality. I only ordered light bite, but at £7.95 for a giant fish finger, chips and a few beans, I feel like the waitress (as lovely as she was) should have been wearing a ski mask abs carrying a sorn off rather than a surgical mask and a card reader. The toilets were a bit grubby looking but recently cleaned, just need a tart up.
SmartDamo . 2021-04-21
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We visited yesterday evening (Fri 16th Apr) for a family meal and has pre-booked. We had visited before lockdown was ever heard of and had not been disappointed. We also knew in advance that that seating was outside or in a marquee (which we chose). We had booked a table for four at the6pm opening time and arrived early and were seated before this time so we expected to served promptly.We had to wait about 10 mins before our drinks order was taken and about another 15 before they were delivered. (We were lucky - another couple a bit later on hadn't received their drinks 40 mins after ordering).About 5 mins after receiving our (correct) drinks, our food order was taken and one of our party asked for 'curry of the day' - the server didn't know what curry it was and had to ask. She came back and told us it was chicken (was it korma, jalfrezi or what - we chanced our luck). It took about another 40 mins for the food to appear - bearing in mind our table was about the 3rd order taken, this was a bit too long.We hadn't ordered a starter - glad of that.The mains were brought out - the curry, a small spaghetti bolognaise and two burgers. We hadn't ordered two - just one. The steak was missing. So was the side of garlic bread we had ordered. This steak recovered from the kitchen fairly promptly - but no garlic bread.We started to eat - still no sign of the garlic bread so we prompted a server who said she would fetch it. We also ordered some more drinks.We had finished our meals 0 still no garlic bread side and no drinks.It was now about 90 minutes after first sitting down and it was getting all a bit tiresome. Bearing in mind the second round of drinks were to accompany the meal as was the elusive garlic bread, we summoned a server and told her to cancel the drinks and garlic bread and to bring us the bill with them removed. she replied that the manager would have to do that but she was running the bar and working in the kitchen. I told her quite vocally that I expected the manger to 'get out here now' to sort things out. The manager did come out after about five minutes and we explained what the issues were. She went away to amend our bill and I went and met her at the door check our bill and pay. She explained that she wasn't expecting to be this busy and hadn't booked in enough staff - which she said she had now done for further days. She did deduct the cost of drinks from the bill.Obviously there had not been enough time over four months lockdown to prepare for reopening and to brief staff - after all there had only been five weeks, well publicised, notice that they could reopen.We then left about and hour and three quarters after sitting down, feeling very disappointed. The food wasn't of the usual, expected standard and the portions were smaller.We will not be back in a hurry.......
ColinO724 . 2021-04-17
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Stayed over for the night with work. On first impression seemed fine but when I looked at the floor it was covered in dead insects and the shower was full of pubic hairs which I had the joy of picking off the wall.Breakfast was not on due to COVID restrictions, just a pity they clearly hadn't cleaned my room properly.Additionally bed was hard and the wifi was also poor.I have ensured my work added this place to the black list.
1987jc . 2020-11-01
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We ordered a Chicken in a cream sauce with bubble and squeak and a Chicken Curry with rice and chips .Both were very nice ,plenty on the plates, for a sweet my wife had Trifle (which was free a September special offer ) no trouble there either. Well worth a visit .
C3567NEbrianf . 2020-09-13
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We had a visit after the lock down ,the menu is a lot smaller not such a good choice..The food was not as per usual and smaller portions ,lets hope it will soon return to its usual good value etc .
Rover201457 . 2020-08-15
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Made a booking last night at very short notice and received a very friendly welcome and shown to our table ,the menu had a good selection to choose from, the service was first class and the food was excellent a very good pint of Guinness and a very nice Australian Shiraz. Would definitely visit again if in the area and the Pan fried Chicken with a choice of sauce is a must to try(we chose creamy mushroom and garlic and creamy Pistachios and smokey Bacon ) both delicious,don’t normally do reviews but the Carpenters deserve this one Ps leave room for the Dessert they are good.
raythegas . 2020-08-04
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We had a revisit tonight after the lockdown , the menu is smaller with no specials. We ordered a Scampi and a Chicken and Bacon salad £10 each. Both were ok except for the ciabatta bread that came with the salad ,it was rock hard . When the waitress came to take our plates away ,I said "the ciabatta was rock hard ",she replied "I will inform the Chef ".On her return she said " the Chef said that's how it is " I just smiled .
C3567NEbrianf . 2020-07-29
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i stayed for a business trip and it was excellent. the staff were really friendly, Claire left the key out for me when she went out which was great as i would have been stood outside waiting.the breakfast was fantastic and the room very clean, tidy and spacious.
ryanelvin24 . 2020-03-05
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Ate here on a Sunday with my wife and parents. First impressions were a warm welcome and plenty of choice on the menu. The service was with a smile and friendly. The food was good and the portions were generous. We had been struggling to find somewhere local that served on a Sunday that didn’t stop too early as we like to eat a little later and we’ve found our place. Will be back.
carldanielleee . 2020-02-16
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Really lovely good old fashioned pub , with good food . Definitely won’t go hungry . Squeezed us in as a last minute booking and we will be back .
Clare L . 2020-02-09
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We have been back a few times since our last review, tonight we ordered fillet steak and a plaice . Both arrived in a good time, nice sized portions and nice food. I like The Carpenters because they offer small meals jacket potatoes and baguettes if you are not that hungry.
Rover201457 . 2020-01-15
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Popped in for a light lunch , good service ,friendly staff and nice to sit in a proper pub. Comfortable and the food was tasty . Nice fire and relaxing atmosphere .
Villageoldman . 2019-12-22
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Sunday roast - vegetables between TWO of us, 2 small broccoli florets, 10 carrot batons, 1 tablespoon cabbage, four tiny roasts, 2 small new potatoes. I had to ask for yorkshire pudding Gravy was not served separately but already on plate Hungry and disappointed. Evening meals are brilliant but wouldn't go back for Sunday lunch.
Janet H . 2019-11-15
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We ordered a sausage and bubble and squeak and a ham and cheese baguette. Both were very good no problems, for a sweet my wife had a mango cheesecake with cream.
Rover201457 . 2019-10-30
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Visited the carpenters arms on Sunday 20th October service was really bad we wait a long time for drinks, ordered food which also took ages was told it was just coming but still had a wait. When finished we waited so long to order deserts that I got up & got the desert board myself & waited about 15 minutes befor anyone took our order Not Good asked what cheesecake they had & was told don't know as they are frozen ? The thing that most put me of was that we were sat right by the bar & the person behind it maid no attempt to give any better service disappointed. Last complaint I was not happy that a dog was brought to bar twice I'm scared of dogs & was concerned about my you granddaughter.Food not to bad meat could be much better u could tell it was keep warm /warmed up.Disappointed will not go back in A hurry SORRY
Teresa G . 2019-10-27
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Just had a lovely lunch at the carpenters. Shepherds pie with vegetables and gravy. Absolutely gorgeous and lovely flavours, followed by home-made bread and butter pudding and custard. It was soo big i had to leave some (very unusual for me) and tastied wonderful.
carly11 . 2019-08-27
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Was adviced to come here by a friend and we were not disappointed. Good food, very good portion sizes. Friendly staff. Would recommend a visit. Nice to see a dog friendly pub too with there own dog corner.
116louisec . 2019-08-12
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Visited the Carpenters on recommendation from family and were not disappointed.
Chris M . 2019-08-08
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I spent one night here on the way back home. Lovely courtyard rooms, friendly staff & good breakfast. The rooms & bathrooms need updating & they definitely need new mattresses. Maybe the double rooms may have been better.
Popsypops . 2019-08-07
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We ordered Chilli jacket and a Hunters chicken, both were as usual good sized portions. No problems at all, this pub is getting more popular now, so book a table to make sure.
Rover201457 . 2019-06-30
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Met family and in laws for lunch, many different dishes chosen, no one had a negative comment about anything, lovely staff, nothing to much trouble, do not know what time pub closed after lunch but at 3.45 discovered all staff gone except one and no other customers, asked what time they closed, told already closed, but said do not worry, we asked for and paid bill and left. Have been there a few times over the years and will not be our last, we travelled from London. Could not fault in any way, good size portions and food nice and hot.
Jacqui C . 2019-06-08
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We had a revisit tonight we ordered Hunters chicken and a chicken salad. The meals soon arrived and the plates were both full with really nice-sized portions. All were hot and tasty especially the chips ( I hate warm chips ). For a sweet, my wife had Cherry cheesecake again no problems. We will definitely return soon to try other meals from a varied menu.
Rover201457 . 2019-05-29
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Dog friendly pub with a small but nice menu. We have visited a few times and the food is reasonably priced and is a good standard, and that's all you want.
Conrad R . 2019-05-27
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Beautiful food in the carpenters on a friday evening. Chicken curry and lasagne just soo good. And to finish with a sticky toffee and date pudding with custard- yum yum.
carly11 . 2019-05-04
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We stopped for a bite to eat on a Saturday. Lovely warm welcome from the waitress who also was kind enough to advise us when a large table were due to order so we could get our order in first. Good choice on the Special's board although we ordered from the menu.
lesleyannen2016 . 2019-03-29
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All four of us enjoyed a snack and pint. Must try the mushrooms in Stilton/cream. Very fresh sandwiches and fillings. Lovely pleasant staff. Will be back.
STFC_EFC . 2019-02-18
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Had our family meal today. Very disappointed service slow, main courses arrived but vegetables arrived separately and far too long after main course. Tables were not cleared we eventually did that ourselves. We had to ask about puddings, eventually an order was taken only to find after a long wait that some puddings were no longer available.
23sweetpea . 2018-12-02
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Friendly staff, didn't have what one of our party wanted but no worries as they were happy to make up a dish to suit a fussy eater, food was spot on and very filling!! overall we had a fantastic dinner. Thankyou.
piggiesonadiet . 2018-10-07
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After spending the day hiking from Faringdon to Swindon (during my recent cross country hike). I was surprised when I came across the Carpenters Arms. I stopped by and had a cold pint before continuing my journey. Staff were friendly and drinks were cold, everything I could want on a hot summers day.
saf7670 . 2018-08-25
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Visited the Carpenters arms for the first time.... and our last.
Creatzy . 2018-08-01
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What can I say, not a lot of good things, the drinks order was taken.... only half the drinks came out.... starters came out, not the right cutlery to eat a starter with, then asked for the rest of the drinks, after an hour and finally getting are main, steak to tough and chewy to even eat, mine was hot at the bottom and cold at the top but my dog enjoyed it!!! That was all that it was fit for...never again.
SwindonAnnie . 2018-07-21
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My husband surprised me by taking me out for an impromptu lunch. We found the pub surprisingly busy for mid week but met by very friendly server. I selected homemade lasagne, salad and garlic bread whilst my husband ordered homemade pie (chicken and leek) chips and peas. Hearty portions of well seasoned tasty simple fare. We’re planning to be back on Sunday to try the roast
STFC_EFC . 2018-07-21
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Had a fantastic meal out with my wife last night. Certainly recommend the Salad Bowl option Hot Chicken and Bacon really tasty and generous helpings, with half a baguette. Lovely setting would recommend!!
LewisOliver2121 . 2018-06-23
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8 people... 8 great dinners.. roasts, steak, home made chilli, massive salad, fish and chips.. Beautiful purddings and very happy customers.. £120 for all of us.. Staff were welcoming and friendly.. Full up and happy..
Denise G . 2018-06-17
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Visited for a belated birthday meal and tbh I felt I could have cooked better at home. Started badly as we had booked 4 days earlier to be told it hadn’t been entered in the book. Instead of being shown to a table we were told we could sit at any unlaid table. Having found a table for four we sat down expecting it to be cleaned and laid. So.....that didn’t happen! Drinks served without incident. We had to flag down a waiter to take our food order and also had to ask for placemats. My husband asked for a medium steak....which was served half rare..... my scampi was at best warm. Table service needs to improve.
nicki h . 2018-06-16
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This restaurant,pub, hotel was a fantastic find . The food is top quality and reasonable priced . We had a late lunch and menus wide and varied. We will definitely go there again.
George M . 2018-06-13
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Arrived at 4.00pm, only serving chicken on the bone as a carvery choice. Disappointing- a carvery that advertises food from 12.00 -8.00pm to run out of meat by 4.00pm is not acceptable in my view.
bas011656 . 2018-05-27
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Decided to give this place another go as it's changed hands now. Ordered soup to start and roast beef dinner for us both. It was piping hot and very nice and the place had a much nicer and friendlier atmosphere this time.
JohnPaul78 . 2018-03-26
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Lovely Pub,friendly Owners and Bar Staff.Great tasting food and a good selection on the menu.Nice fire for warm winter days ! Very enjoyable as you are made to feel welcome.Special area for Dog owners which is good as my wife has a alergic to Dogs !
93michael1 . 2018-03-20
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A friend and I had a great meal here last week. The portions were big, the food was tasty, and the atmosphere was very friendly. Overall - very nice evening and I'd recommend the Carpenters Arms!
Claudia P . 2018-03-18
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Came here on a Thursday evening with a group of 20 ladies. We had prebooked our tables but not our food.
Prue143 . 2018-03-17
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Visited for a quick meal and ended up with the full 3 courses. fresh, tasty, good portions and some nice specials. Staff were all friendly and helpful. Really good value and very modestly priced menu for such quality. Will certainly drop in again.
charlessD1747JI . 2018-02-15
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Easy to get to and good parking.
Lostpassport . 2018-01-25
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Really good value for money here. The standard roast will fill you up, the large one will completely stuff you, well cooked well presented and well worth it!
jslave . 2018-01-18
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Had Sunday lunch today, large roast with chicken and beef, very good quality especially the extremely tender beef, all fresh food, you can tell it's homemade. My pudding was the cherry meringue stack which was also fantastic. It's very good value here and well worth a visit.
Rob H . 2018-01-07
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As my mum was going away for Christmas we decided to have an early dinner on the 17th December (lunch time). It was very busy but you wouldn't of noticed as we were made to feel very welcome and attended to very quickly, we took our dog and they offered him water when they got us our drinks. We had the set Christmas three course meal and i couldn't fault any of it, the starters (soup & pate) were lovely and a meal on their own, the turkey dinner was fabulous with so much food and a good variety of veg, it all came out hot and there was an appropriate wait between courses. Sweets were a perfect end to the meal so much so we didn't stay for our mince pies and coffee!! The staff were polite and nothing was to much trouble for them, I would recommend them to anyone as we have also been for an evening meal there a few times and the service has never changed.
billnightingale . 2017-12-29
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Dedicated dog friendly area and rooms for brilliant stay, fantastic home cooked food, friendly staff and great pub ambience.
SteveDirect . 2017-10-28
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We were a party of 5 people for a sunday lunch at 14:00 which was fine took a while for staff to take our order for sunday lunch, when we had finished waited 25 minutes for plates to be cleared which we had to ask to be done, then when we asked for an order for our sweets we were told that there was a problem with the sweets and we would have a wait while they sorted them, as it was now 15:30 we decided not to have a sweet, so we payed and left. This is the second time these problems have happend. Have used this pub for many years and there was never a problem with the previous owners and they never run out of any food and run the place with less staff than they have now. Very dissapointed.
linneyrm . 2017-10-01
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Visited with a group of friends and had a lovely time. We were given a nice oval table so that we could all talk together and the food was great, typical pub menu but very well prepared. I liked the fact that light bites were available and really enjoyed the light bite scampi and chips.
Judi F . 2017-09-01
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Went for an evening meal on a last minute impulse. The bar wasn't too busy but it took a long time getting served and placing the food order. The food wasn't too long arriving and was good. Definitely worth going back though maybe not during a busy period.
The_MooseSwindon . 2017-09-01
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A group of 8 of us had booked dinner to celebrate a family event. I'm guessing one waitress was being trained and she was pleasant and reasonably efficient. The other waitress said the right things but there was the odd tut and seeming impatience that made me feel we were an inconvenience. It probably didn't help that her iPad (or whatever) for recording orders broke down. We eat out about once a week on average and it's unusual to find a pub that doesn't do house wine by the glass. Moreover, the wines that they do by the glass only had prices displayed for whole bottles. This may just be a mistake but doesn't seem right to me. Anyway, the food was ok; big on quantity, reasonable quality, but a number of our party felt it wasn't particularly flavoursome. After having our man plates cleared, we waited to be offered deserts and maybe coffee. Nothing. We tried to get their attention but eventually gave up and went to the bar to ask for the bill. To end the meal like this was disappointing and we're unlikely to return.
H B . 2017-08-18
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The reason for my visit was a somber one, a wake, but I will definitely be returning!
Hippychick778 . 2017-08-10
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There is plenty of room inside & out (on nice days). There is a good choice of fare & it is reasonably priced. You can have smaller portions if required & sharing platters.
confusedddd . 2017-07-11
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We have been to The carpenters arms alot of the years, and it was sad to hear that Helen and David had gone aboard (wish them all the very best by the way).We were amazed that the standard of food was still excellent, the friendly atmosphere was still present and the staff were helpful, attentive and looked after our needs very well.Sunday luch was fantastic, we will be back soon to sample other items on the menu.Reccomend book for Sunday lunch.
Pat P . 2017-03-28
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We went here for lunch after about a 20 year break.New waitress was doing well.Food excellent.Go for the sharer starter.Can't wait to go back again but won't wait 20 years .Very well done.
Pete R . 2017-03-25
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We were a family of seven for Sunday lunch for which I wouldStrongly advise booking as it is very busy and no surprise once you have tasted the food! The starters were 3 home made soup and 3 prawn cocktail, 1 jalapeños. Although we had a bit of a wait due to staffing in the kitchen the starters were good value for money and all were delivered together which for a large party is good. We all had Sunday roast bar one who had hunters chicken. It was nice to have a choice of meal sizes from small for those of a smaller appetite to large for those who like a bigger portion for very little increase in price. There was a choice of two meats and all veg was served individually and allPiping hot. The desserts were delicious and finished of an excellent afternoon where we did not feel rushed at all. The bill was very good value for money and we will be returning soon. The waitress that served us was charming with a sense of humour and certainly earned her wage and tip that day not all with a smile and happy to help... a big plus to her and the pub!! My only reason for not a five.......would have liked a wider choice of beer above the Arkells brand as not a fan.
Paul H . 2017-03-07
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Staff extremely pleasant and helpful, environment ( furniture layout etc) same but smaller portions! Always been a feature at the carpenters that you were well fed, I was disappointed to be given such a small plate of food.
soop77 . 2017-03-05
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Staying locally with family, friendly staff made my elderly mother very welcome, nice food and good service
jenlutterworth . 2017-01-27
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Meals varied from good to average. Extensive menu. Waitress service good. Man behind the bar needs a lesson in customer service
Lilipat66 . 2017-01-25
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698 Opinions
We've eaten here many times over the years but it sadly went downhill so we haven't visited in some time. Noticed that it had been taken over earlier this year and reviews looked great so we went on Saturday for my husband's birthday. So glad we did! The refurb is lovely - seating is much more spaced out than previously. Team were all super friendly and efficient - lots of smiles and conversation if you wanted it - just how we like it. It was a very busy Saturday night and they looked full. Service as the evening went on slowed up a little but not drastically so and it didn't detract from our lovely evening. Food was exceptional! We had the crispy olives to nibble on, the trout for mains (please keep this on the menu it was amazing) and vanilla creme choux pastry and roast pineapple for dessert. It was all stunning! We only live a few miles away and are so glad to have a top notch eatery on our doorstep! Already re-booked to go with family for lunch in a few weeks time so fingers crossed we'll have the same wonderful experience! Top marks to the chef!!
14 Opinions
Poorly trained staff gave our order waited an hour, no one is aware of a table not having been served, we checked, the order hadn’t been put through. Staff and bar man have no idea what whats going on, would rather chat to each other than look a customer in the eye, wasn’t busy. They are not trained that there’s a table there that’s been in a long time but no food. We were then promised it would be out in 5 mins but still took 15 a total of 1hr 20 mins wait for two sandwiches, no reduction on the bill either just poor training won’t be going back.
73 Opinions
We go here quite a bit, lovely new pub with nice atmosphere. My to go to dish has always been the Plantbased Burger. It was sooo good even my meat eating friends would have it. It was like a 10/10. But when we went the other day we found to our disappointment you’ve changed the plant burger to a beetroot burger??! It was eatable, but only a 3/10. Please bring the old vegan burger back.
310 Opinions
Excellent meal with family staff very friendly and helpful I had the Tikka masala which was very tasty kids also catered for and the desserts well presented and liked by all those that had some and prices not unreasonable
219 Opinions
Gave a 2 because the waitress was lovely. Food terrible. Items missing, cold food, congealed cauliflower cheese and overcooked potatoes. Would not return! Did complain but fell on deaf ears.