Restaurant at The Sweeney in Shropshire

Our first visit and we will not be repeating it. I had black pudding and leek croquettes for starters. It is difficult to make black pudding tasteless but this was achieved. My main course was Coq au vin pie with celeriac mash and tenderstem brocolli. The pie was not just encased in pastry but armour-plated. The celeriac mash was actually mashed potato and the tenderstem brocolli appeared to be normal brocolli. I very much doubt that either the croquettes or the pie were made on the premises. I would advise the owners that, if they are going to buy food ready-made, they should at least try it themselves before inflicting it on their clients. The ambience and service were great - shame about the food.

On our short visit to Wales, we went to the annual food market in Oswestry. The only reason we came was coz it was pouring down with rain so we decided to stop for tea and sandwiches. Bad idea! Impressive grounds but food quality very poor, basic and tasteless. Service even worse, no sugar or teaspoons served with our tea, we had to ask for them.

Full of expectation but disappointed with the experience. The dining room had no ambiance and the table was poorly presented. Food was no more than cafe quality at best, edible but not memorable in a good way.