GastroRanking-logo
whatsappWhatsapp
phoneCalldesktopWebsite
menuMenu
bookingBooking
3,70

Based on 663 opinions finded in 4 websites

4.2Ambience3.4Cuisine3.2Price3.4Service
site_photo4

comment_iconOpinions

Lovely location and venue, staff very friendly and professional but food tasteless, bland and definitely not freshly cooked and very unreasonably expensive. Risotto was stodgy, starchy, tasteless and unseasoned. It was supposed to be sun dried tomato pesto but had no discernible taste of tomatoes, pine nuts or garlic. The basil oil was missing and had to be requested. The lamb faggots were hard, bland balls of disappointment. Completely tasteless lamb; if there was any offal in the faggots, you couldn’t taste it. £26 (??!!) . Even the mash was completely tasteless. They are clearly using very cheap, poor quality produce and charging ridiculous prices and living of their previous reputation. Will never return 😡

site_logo

Jenny186273 . 2024-08-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

For nearly 20 years when going up and down the Thames I have stopped at the Bull for dinner, but it is no longer the great place it once was. The menu used to be varied and interesting, but now there is very little to choose from and £33 for a 6oz (yes six ounce) steak is ridiculous. Two of the party chose the Caprese Salad. What turned up was a plate of rocket with a few bits of tomato and mozzarella. The menu doesn’t mention rocket and every example I look at of a Caprese salad has no green stuff but lots of tomato, mozzarella and basil. If the chef doesn’t know how to make it they shouldn’t offer it on the menu. Overall the food was poor and certainly not worth the substantial bill

site_logo

SHBoat . 2024-08-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We just stayed at The Bull for 4 nights. The hosts couldn’t have been more helpful and accommodating of our needs and we had excellent breakfasts and lovely home cooked food in the evening.

site_logo

Andy Dent . 2024-08-12

MORE AT Google

Only stayed one night but would definitely stay again if in the area

site_logo

Keith Cozens . 2024-08-12

MORE AT Google

Food wonderful and staff very friendly

site_logo

David Reed . 2024-08-11

MORE AT Google

Food and ambience were excellent. Room was pretty good it was extremely clean. They even changed rooms for me so I had a walk in shower. If in the area I would definitely stay here again.

site_logo

ian wilkinson . 2024-07-30

MORE AT Google

Highly recommend having a meal at the Bull inn, great atmosphere and the landlord was very chatty. Couldn't fault the couple of hrs we spent there.

site_logo

Mark Boardman . 2024-05-29

MORE AT Google

ABSOLUTELY EXCELLENT RECOMMEND 100%. WHAT A FIND. Just spent 2 nights here and will be back.Good value for money.Nothing too much trouble for the owners.Fabulous food and superbly presented both breakfast and dinner.Room was clean, comfy and quiet, with plenty of parking away from the quiet road.Staff were so helpful.In all a great relaxing atmosphere .Thank you so much for making my weekend.

site_logo

Gwynneth Wild . 2024-05-20

MORE AT Google

Booked a couple of nights recently at the bull with the intention of getting to Stamford and doing a bit of walking.The pub was set in a fabulous location and was complimented by hosts that couldn't do enough for you in addition we came across friendly locals good imaginative food and fine ales well done leo & daena Tony & Kath Doncaster

site_logo

Kathleen Sleight . 2024-05-18

MORE AT Google

Went for Saturday lunch with friends. Very friendly host with nice banter. Excellent food cooked by the hosts wife. All reasonably priced. Excellent.

site_logo

Mick Credland . 2024-04-07

MORE AT Google

There were 4 of us. We had the beef or pork roast dishes and they were very good indeed - high quality ingredients, cooked to perfection by skilled chefs They were so very busy (that’s a clue to this being a very special place!) but nevertheless gave us top service. Thank you to the efficient team at the Bull Inn. Can’t wait to return

site_logo

869chelsea1993 . 2024-04-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Gloomy and cold. Thet didn't bother to light the fires. Staff were just robotic. Didn't see a smile on a face. Beef was terrible. Ambience not welcoming and frankly "grey". Was food OK?? I was asked. "it was really just OK".. Never will we go back. Also waited half an hor for mains. Didn't seem clean to me.

site_logo

Global23136987793 . 2024-03-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely place and very nice owners. It was a Greek theme night when I went and was lovely, fully booked. Food was good and excellent breakfast. I would go again.

site_logo

Mark Jones . 2024-03-28

MORE AT Google

Delicious, succulent, well proportioned Sunday Roast in a comfortable, idyllic setting, accompanied by good, efficient, polite service. A little pricey maybe, but you obviously pay for the location. Nice pudding too. Thank you.

site_logo

AndreaBlush . 2024-03-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked a table here for lunch and on arrival we struggles to find parking as the car park by the restaurant was full. On entering it took a while to be acknowledged by the staff and shown to our table, but we settled in a lovely room where most of the other tables were taken. We chose the two-course lunch menu and enjoyed the soup and fish pie were were nicely served. When we were ready to pay and leave, it again took a while to be noticed by staff - they may have been under-staffed on the day. Nevertheless, we came away satisfied.

site_logo

GlobetrottingViking . 2024-01-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

What a brilliant place Landlord & staff friendly Locals welcoming Food excellent Rooms superb Would definitely book again

site_logo

Jill Honess . 2023-12-16

MORE AT Google

Popped in for a casual midweek lunch and the welcome was just underwhelming. No open fires as apparently the chimney hadn’t been cleaned. That was the first sign of poor management. Lunch bar menu was co limited. Soup bowl came half full with no bread. Ploughman’s was one cheese and sliced style bread as opposed to focaccia as advertised. When settling the bill at the bar12.5% service charge added for zero service £60 later a disappointing experience.

site_logo

Paul S . 2023-12-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very welcoming small hotel with good food and real ales. Worth a detour

site_logo

Christine Euler . 2023-11-21

MORE AT Google

This pub has a fantastic atmosphere and the staff are great…open log fire,great old beams..etc.Definitely come here for a drink.But,and it is a big but,the food is well over priced for what you get and then your are insulted by a 15% service charge. The couple next to me had a starter of octopus….one tentacle 7inches long and that was it….£10!! Overall the quality of the food is good but the portions are terrible.For two I spent £110 and came away hungry.That is always a bad sign.Ray,behind the bar keeps the place ticking over and the staff are very attentive.It’s just the food that lets the place down I am afraid.My meal came with 9 chips….says it all. I will visit again but not eat.

site_logo

BlightyEngland . 2023-11-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

just had a great two night stay here.reallylovely place owners and staff very good and friendly nothing too much trouble.breakfast was huge.and evening menu was great well cooked and served.we will be back thank you Deana and leo

site_logo

Stephen Whiffen . 2023-10-28

MORE AT Google

Friendly with a good bar and lounge and a good selection of beers and other drinks. Plus, puppy snacks..

site_logo

david leggett . 2023-10-21

MORE AT Google

I recently went to the Bull Inn just to have some lunch, I had roast beef baguette and it was delicious! I was actually surprised how much food there was on the plate for the price. There was an extra bonus which was they had Cruz Campo on tap. Lovely owners who were very chatty and showed me around, great to see they still have a pool table and dart board which was upstairs. All in all it is a great pub and I will definitely be returning.

site_logo

Mark Pell . 2023-10-11

MORE AT Google

We stayed in room 5, which the owner joked was the box room. It's huge and it was brilliant for our needs. The bed was really comfortable and we both slept really well. We stayed 3 nights and ate at the pub all the time we were there because the food was delicious. The pub is also really well stocked with some excellent beers. The owners and staff are really attentive and the hotel is a credit to them. We'll definitely be returning in the future.

site_logo

Mark Payne . 2023-09-19

MORE AT Google

A friend and I stayed here for the Burghley Horse Trials, which was about a 30 minute drive away. The hosts Daena & Leo, who have been running The Bull Inn for the last few months were fantastic. They are both really friendly and accommodating. We wanted to be away to Burghley before breakfast on Saturday, so they very kindly gave us a box of fruit and pastries on Friday night to take with us. Room was clean and comfortable, food in the pub restaurant was nice as was the cooked breakfast. Food, beer and room prices were good value. Locals were really friendly and welcoming too. We were really happy with our stay and will definitely stay here again when we are next in the area.

site_logo

Craig Winter . 2023-09-05

MORE AT Google

Really good lunch menu, decent portion, tasted fresh, pleasant atmosphere inside with great garden outside, friendly staff, clean facilities

site_logo

kerryh772 . 2023-08-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Super nice! Dog friendly. Clean room. Good food. Friendly people. Parking in front of the room behind the inn.

site_logo

Marco ter Haar . 2023-08-06

MORE AT Google

Had a lovely one night stay here, fab hosts, lovely room and an excellent breakfast in this village pub. The landlords are doing a great job of improving this place after taking it on several months ago. Loved hearing about their future plans as well.

site_logo

tom huck . 2023-08-02

MORE AT Google

The food was wonderful, home cooked and tasty. And the owners were so helpful. My room was slightly run down and damp smelling, but I appreciate they have just taken over ownership so hope it gets freshened up soon.

site_logo

Amy Miller . 2023-07-29

MORE AT Google

Recently visited for quick midweek lunch, Sunday lunch and dinner (with live singer). Good consistency across all 3 meals; fish and chips excellent; superb roast dinner and very good steaks. Friendly attentive service and good wide range of drinks and decent pricing.

site_logo

Cymro-in-Reading . 2023-07-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Friends were staying here and loved it. Lovely clean room and excellent service.

site_logo

Karen Hamilton . 2023-07-17

MORE AT Google

Under new management since May 2023. We stayed here for our son's wedding in the area. Leo the owner and his wife Dana(?) were the most helpful and generous hosts I've ever encountered. To say: 'nothing is too much trouble' is an understatement, but really is the case. We messed Leo around quite a lot, with changing requirements, and he took it all in his stride - with a smile. The rooms here are lovely, very clean and comfortable. The location is beautiful and quiet. The meals and breakfast were great too. It was a real pleasure to stay at the Bull Inn, thoroughly recommended. If we're in the area to stay again, we would not hesitate to stay here.

site_logo

Mark Griffiths . 2023-07-16

MORE AT Google

Absolutely excellent Inn. Had the stake, cooked to perfection and a good plate full. Excellent service and price. Allowed me to charge my power bank as I live in my van. Thank you very much to the staff and compliments to the chef.

site_logo

Darren Wilson . 2023-06-27

MORE AT Google

Excellent atmosphere since it has been taken over looks like we have a decent pub in the village again .

site_logo

Gary Gray . 2023-06-20

MORE AT Google

Very good would recommend to stay here

site_logo

Dawn Ingram . 2023-06-18

MORE AT Google

Free Wi-Fi/Good location/Near trunk roads/Ideal as a stopover. New owners, very pleasant and helpful. IGNORE PREVIOUS REVIEWS, NEW OWNERS HAVE HAD PROFESSIONALLY DEEP CLEANED EVERYWHERE AND MADE IMPROVEMENTS AFTER PREVIOUS OWNERS RAN THE PLACE DOWN .With plans for further improvements, not that has any bearing on the situation. Breakfast n Dinner fine. Would certainly return if need be. Watch this space, this BnB is on the up n up. Don’t price yourselves out of the market !

site_logo

Graham (GolfSierra09.) . 2023-06-14

MORE AT Google

My partner and I stayed here for the night. The rooms are adjacent to the actual pub, in a kind of motel setting, nevertheless the room was spacious, bed was comfortable and the shower pleasant. There is a nice garden area wether it be to just have a drink and relax or for children to play. The owner was a very pleasant hard working man, who always found time to have a chat, likewise with his wife. The breakfast was also good. We would stay here again if we are ever in the area.

site_logo

Ricky Bull . 2023-06-06

MORE AT Google

Stayed this weekend with my two dogs ,the new management was fantastic! Couldn’t have made me feel more welcomed! Went the extra step in making sure my dogs had everything they needed. My cooked breakfast was delicious and even made sure had some extras as I’m a vegetarian. Room was spotless and clean, even supplied some extra blankets for my dogs. Will definitely use the bull again. Can’t wait to see why else the new management have planned .. Thank you so much!

site_logo

nancy-jean brown . 2023-06-05

MORE AT Google

Not stayed here so can't comment on the accommodation but the pub is good with friendly staff and good service, tables indoors and outside and will visit again soon and would recommend...

site_logo

jd ward . 2023-06-01

MORE AT Google

Avoided the masses at the Coppa club and then came across this beautiful Fullers pub. We sat in the courtyard, next to the church. What a perfect setting for a pint of London Pride in the sunshine. Happy days.

site_logo

RazzyBthefirst . 2023-05-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Sadly things had changed when we were at the bull tha last time we were there.Hopely things will back be to the norm. Good luck to the new client's. G&P

site_logo

Pauline Holmes . 2023-05-04

MORE AT Google

Very nice local pub, prices reasonable, will use again next time in area.

site_logo

t m . 2023-04-22

MORE AT Google

Signs around Sonning say ‘best fish and chips in Sonning’. I would argue that this should be expanded! We had an incredible meal with excellent service. Top points to the chef Clayton Baker. Loved it all - thanks for the experience.

site_logo

Sally N . 2023-04-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Positives: Nice village location, cute dogs and friendly staff. Negatives: Went for Sunday lunch - had good reviews and reasonably priced so thought we would try it. Starters were ok - pretty average but nice enough. Sunday lunch was very dry and over-done (burnt potatoes and Yorkshire pudding, and soggy veg). Nobody asked how the food was until clearing plates, only 1 waiter doing bar and food and didn't really feel we could complain! General shortage of things on the menu and at the bar: desserts were limited to 2 being available off the menu, no custard or vanilla ice-cream... limited beers on tap at the bar. Toilets could do with a re-vamp. Sitting area for food otherwise ok and clean. Disappointing experience which is a shame as it has the potential to be a nice little pub. Definitely not 4.6 stars at the moment I'm afraid to say!

site_logo

Louisa Riddett . 2023-04-16

MORE AT Google

Only a review of the restraunt, the Sunday lunch, the beef in particular. It's just not very good which is unfortunate but there you go.

site_logo

Spyro Fan . 2023-04-16

MORE AT Google

Sadly, like so many rural pub's this place is run down. The room was baltic but bed comfy shower adequate if you can stand the coldness in the room and I had to climb out of the bedroom window and open the front door from the outside

site_logo

Lorraine Landale . 2023-04-14

MORE AT Google

Very good food and the service was excellent

site_logo

Margaret Healy . 2023-04-11

MORE AT Google

Booked a room at this delightful country Inn for the night of my 60th birthday. The room was lovely and very clean and comfortable. Ground floor and right at the rear of the pub, so nice and quiet. There was a problem with the heating, but an electric heater was provided. Had a nice evening meal from menu with gluten free options, (as we both have Coeliac disease). However, my husband was accidentally served something not gluten free. Luckily he was suspicious and didn't eat it, but it could have made him poorly. We had a good cooked breakfast next morning, where more care was taken, and our host provided GF bread for our toast. We enjoyed our stay at this friendly country Inn, and made friends with the manager's dogs. Great place to stay if you like a quiet village location. A little more care needs to be taken when catering for those with special dietary requirements though.

site_logo

Janet Moore . 2023-03-07

MORE AT Google

Steak night on Saturday is well worth a visit, went Saturday 14th January, steak was cooked to perfection and so tender. The rest of the party had tapas which was divine, fish and chips, the pice of fish was very large and was beautiful. Scampi and chips and pizza both again excellent. Very good value for money.

site_logo

Louise Wisker . 2023-01-21

MORE AT Google

First visit of 23 did not disappoint. Great to be in a busy Inn and yet feel calm and unhurried buy the combination of brilliant Staff and a classic atmosphere. A classic British Inn with a small but perfect menu. The food is of the standard you expect with fine dining, yet without fuss or pomposity. Great food, great people ( and a brilliant wine list)

site_logo

PaulBthebrit . 2023-01-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Can't fault the combination of great value, good evening meal and breakfast, and great hospitality. And charming pub dogs too. We'll be back.

site_logo

Martin Stevens . 2023-01-11

MORE AT Google

Fish and chips is the best in the county!! Highly recommended.

site_logo

Bob Dewes . 2022-11-20

MORE AT Google

Lovely room, good food and a welcoming host. The view of the church at breakfast was beautiful.

site_logo

wendy cave . 2022-11-11

MORE AT Google

Excellent Sunday lunch , dog friendly and beautiful setting . Lovely atmosphere and friendly staff . We will be back . Thank you

site_logo

B9108RMlisal . 2022-11-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited with friends from the area and it is indeed a lovely old inn with garden however the food was disappointing and over priced in my opinion. Our steak while flavourful had far too much fat (yes, I know you need fat for flavour!). We had to ask for another steak knife hoping it would be easier to cut the meat but I just gave up trying. Amuse Bouche lamb balls were lovely. Chocolate medallion good. Rhubarb compote with yogurt sorbet lovely but rhubarb impossible to cut with spoon. Our friends are knowledgeable about wine and happy with the selection on offer. My advice stop in for a drink on a nice day and save yourself a bundle. Our server was lovely and efficient but would not return. Too many other options

site_logo

Kate L . 2022-10-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We went as a group of friends to the Bull on Sunday, after a walk. Although we have been to the Bull before, we specifically booked the Bull this time for its location and for a roast dinner. The roast dinners were just incredible, and I have not stopped dreaming about it since! I had the plant-based nut roast, and the others had the lamb shank roast. All roasts come with cauliflower cheese, a jug of gravy, roast potatoes, excellent homemade Yorkshires, parsnip, carrot, and a green veg mix of leeks, peas etc. There are also many sides to choose from to go with the roasts, we ordered the braised red cabbage, the chili and garlic broccoli and the pigs in blankets. Absolutely every morsel of food was delicious. Nothing disappointed. On top of this, the service was great, and the atmosphere and general environment were spot on. I could not recommend the Bull highly enough!

site_logo

montannab964 . 2022-07-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

An excellent venue with lots of outside seating and cosy indoor seating. Very chocolate box setting. A good range of food, although a lot of it seemingly over complicated, but of course you have to be different these days to stand out. The service was very friendly although wishing to pay separately caused a minor issue. My main observation is the somewhat exhorbitant prices. If you want a simple sandwich this is not the place.

site_logo

Gary D . 2022-07-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Four of us visited the Bull yesterday lunchtime. The food, the service and the pub itself were fine. In fact everything was fine until the bill came. A 12½% service charge had been added; the menu made it clear that this was discretionary, so it was equivalent to a tip and it was no surprise. I normally prefer a cash option so that the money goes to the staff and not the company, but on this occasion I didn't bother. However, the card payment machine had been set to invite a further gratuity of... well, what shall it be... 10%? 20%? 30%?... more?? In my opinion this is fraudulent and it makes me very angry. If I'd paid an additional gratuity I have no confidence whatsoever that the staff would have seen any of it.

site_logo

Andy J . 2021-10-26

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Friendly chilled service. 2 x fish and chips were enjoyed and 2x Ploughman’s were first class. Good size servings. Good range of beers and lovely location. Worth a try. Good value for money. We’ll be back.

site_logo

Cymro-in-Reading . 2021-10-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Robust, well cooked food in an atmospheric half-timbered inn with good service and an excellent wine list.

site_logo

Martin R . 2021-09-30

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Stayed one night very nice..old and quirky..spotlessly clean and a great breakfast. Had dinner on night of stay which was enjoyable and plentiful. Staff very friendly and a lovely location. .

site_logo

patlam_11 . 2021-09-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Eaten in The Bull over the last 20 years and always rated it but last night (our first back since Covid) we had a very disappointing meal, with friends. I agree with other reviews about the hidden service charge and the added option to tip!...

site_logo

Su P . 2021-08-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Managed to book a lunchtime meal just before the kitchen closed at 3pm. Staff were all very pleasant and attentive. The fish and chips were very nice and shepherds pie tasty despite missing a few of the vegetables stated on the menu. I can't help...

site_logo

Gordon R . 2021-07-13

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A bit disappointed with our meal at the Bull Inn tonight. We arrived at 6.30 pm and already they had sold out of the fish and chips. My wife had chicken that was small greasy with only potatoes and a sprinkling of peas and carrot...

site_logo

242nigelt . 2021-07-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We had the most DISAPPOINTING MEAL, Frozen Fish with ready cook chips …. Although the King Prawn dish tasty by the time one shelled them the rest of the meal was cold. Before Lockdown Bull Inn had great food. Really disappointed, we have such limited...

site_logo

SharRondaKitty . 2021-07-04

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Sonning is blessed with a very special pre Tudor Inn, full of character with very helpful staff. The food was so tasty: I recommend the salmon. The manager, Molly, gave me a written history of the place which was most interesting as I love history....

site_logo

Mrs P . 2021-06-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The first thing that strikes you about the Bull is the historic building, down a side street in Sonning and into a small car park next to the back of the local church. The next thing that strikes you is the lack of parking, fine...

site_logo

Sarah_Jane995 . 2021-06-22

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Had lunch here and on the whole had a really good meal. However need to improve allergy menu as it was a nightmare trying to navigate the app/website via the QR code to find out hwat was gluten free. In the end we chose what...

site_logo

andydolan2016 . 2021-06-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

First time visit to the Bull, and very enjoyable too Great service, great drink selection and great menu Nice outdoor seating area as well. Would definitely recommend and we will return

site_logo

chrismranger . 2021-06-14

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Two of us had lunch here, underwhelmed. Very limited lunch menu, we had different sandwiches on different bread, but bread was dry in both cases, filling in one of them was sparse. Service was poor, asked twice for water which never came. Overpriced, esp as...

site_logo

andes08 . 2021-06-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Very slow service - having been told there were no free tables outside we were eventually offered one and spent our whole stay here looking at empty tables - service was very poor, slow and not friendly. Food was ok. I hate it when restaurants...

site_logo

Mrswokinghamlady21 . 2021-06-02

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Over priced £26.25 for a 8oz sirloin steak and not much else and the steak was though. Menu not great.

site_logo

MarkE667 . 2020-10-11

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We cancelled our booking at another location but realised they are all struggling. COVID-19 restricted menu but adequate. Staff very pleasant, service slick but feel their pain. Value for money but would like to revisit to try again. Dogs so welcome Thanks

site_logo

haigh48 . 2020-09-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Went here with friends and even allowing for current covid restrictions it was not a great experience. Everything on the app so no real service as such and food was pretty average for the price. Nothing wrong with it but I have had more filling...

site_logo

P2HAM . 2020-09-23

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I don’t feel compelled to write many reviews on here — Only when I really feel it’s just. This is by far the best pub my partner and I have been to with regards to following COVID regulations. They have done it right.

site_logo

tgray88 . 2020-09-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Something has changed. The food was ok but not what it used to be like. A friend had the Vegan burger that wasn’t at all nice. She ate it but said to me after that she wouldn’t have it again. My hamburger was great, albeit small. The chicken with thyme was good but not up to the usual standard. Service was ok but slow. Very slow. There was one waitress who was quite abrupt with some people who had a couple of dogs. It seems the staff are new, has there been new management?? Disappointed to be honest.

site_logo

cessna1709 . 2020-09-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Having spent two weeks traveling up and down the Thames from Weybridge to Oxford and back, we have sadly been served too many lacklustre meals. Many of our old favourite places have changed hands and gone downhill, or Covid has had a adverse effect on food and service standards. The Bull, however, exceeded our expectations and was a bright star in a culinary dissapointing fortnight. We were lucky to grab the last remaining mooring at Sonning and wandered into the village for provisions. The one (and only) village shop was closed, then we spotted a sign for The Bull. Although we had never visited Sonning previously, we had heard great things about The Bull and booked a table for 8pm. I then noticed t-bone steak on the Chef's Specials and was told they only had two left. I asked if I could reserve one, and to my suprisebthe readily agrees, not even accepting my offer of pre-payment. That evening we arrived and it was just perfect. We were offered a table inside or out, and choose outside as it was a clement evening after a blisteringly hot day.I had a perfect pint of Fullers and my hubby had a Hendricks. The waiter knew all about my pre-ordered steak which had been set aside for me. We ordered a shared starter of hummos, babaganouch and other Mediterranean delicacies. It was delicious. Next we both had steak. I had my t-bone and my husband had sirloin. Both cooked perfectly and served with triple cooked chips, mushroom, peppercorn sauce, confit tomatoes and slow roasted garlic. Absolutely delicious and enjoyed with a reasonable bottle of Amarone for £50.Puddings.... again delicious but sadly lacking in immagination. Once again (yawn) sticky toffee pudding, chocolate brownie or cheesecake. Come on kitchen team.... please sjlhow a bit more immagination. We have been offered exactly the same three puddings at almost every restaurant we have visited since July! They did however find a bottle of glorious Sauternes which made up for it (and for just £26). So overall a great meal in a fabulous setting, served by competent, confident and friendly staff. A real delight. Thank you.There were however two issues that stopped me giving 5 stars, both of which could easily have been avoided.1. When we settled our bill they charged our card £220. They then apologised profously and said we been given another table's bill by mistake and ours was £235. They refunded the error and we paid again. We were then told that BOTH amounts had been taken from our account but the credit card company could take up to 5/7 days to issue the refund. So in total £455 had been taken from our bank. We are very fortunate insofar as we can afford to be £220 down for a few days without it causing us hardship, but imagine if it had happened to a young couple who had saved-up for a special occasion or someone on a lower income on a special date night. The manager was very apologetic, but losing £220 could have caused real hardship.2. The second issue was when I popped to the lavatory before leaving. The main loo was in use and the bartender kindly suggested I use the disabled persons loo, next to the kitchen. While there I overheard the chefs shouting at each other using some very inappropriate language. I am not at all prudish but I would have been quite angry had I been there with my mother and she had overheard what I did.So overall....Wonderful venueAmazing serviceFabulous foodbut please don't ruin what you have by silly and unnecessary "own goals" leaving an impression you do not deserve.

site_logo

ak23566 . 2020-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We visited here for lunch and absolutely loved it.Great food and lovely setting in a beautiful picturesque village.Service very attentive too.We will definitely be back.The chicken and truffle linguine we both had was delicious.

site_logo

Amanda-McG . 2020-09-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good menu choice. Deliciously cooked. Would recommend the trout with crushed potatoes, samphire etc. Dessert - banoffee cheesecake and salted caramel ice cream was wonderful, though very rich.

site_logo

Carol B . 2020-09-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We arrived and were told that, although we booked, there was no room inside the restaurant. We sat in the shade in the garden which was warm enough for us, but we are planning on coming back with our parents and this would have been problematic. They were taking the new Covid regulations seriously and we felt very reassured and comfortable. The staff were polite and attentive when taking our drinks and food order. The food was fantastic. We ordered the Hummus platter, Roast Chicken and Truffle Linguine and the Steak off of the chefs choice menu. All three dishes were packed full of flavor and beautifully cooked.The wine list is substantial and both the Pinot Blush and Shriraz we ordered were good.We had the chocolate brownie and ice cream for dessert, which again was delicious.Towards the end of the meal the outside was quietening down and there only seemed to be one member of staff tending the tables. We were sat over on the far side and did feel a bit neglected at some points. We had to walk over and request service for dessert and a final round of drinks, and we ended up paying our bill at the hatch after failing to get anyone's attention.Overall it was a great experience, and taking into account the EOTHO discount the final bill was good value given the high quality of the food. We will certainly be back to enjoy the pub again.

site_logo

James_Ollie_Smith . 2020-09-01

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Visited for the eat out to help out. Had two burgers and two fish and chips. Food was ok. Beer and cider was very good. Annoyed that a 20% tip was put on making it £10 tip. I would have probably tipped £5 cash. Due to discount said nothing. I am actually embarrassed for the place putting in 20% tip automatically. There was no real service. Four plates put on a table. If not the discount I would have challenged. This sly tactic will absolutely stop me from returning regardless of the price.

site_logo

Leeleggs . 2020-08-20

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Food ok , overpriced but terrible service, staff have no knowledge about food, waited 25 minutes for 3 pints , no apology , 12.5% service charge on the bill then they present the Card Machine to you on the gratuity screen !!! Absolute greediness, also option of charity donation, when asked what charity they were supporting the waiter shrugged his shoulders and said he hadn’t been told, never offered to find out.Fish and Chips was overcooked and the salmon starter (which I received with no salmon at first) was bland and certainly not worth 8.50. Had to ask the Taller lady that looked like a Manager for desserts after we had piled our main course plates that were left on our table for so long. She took our order, left the plates. Just poor communication between staff and really no sign of any Management in place . Shame because it’s a nice looking pub in a lovely setting. But certainly wouldn’t not worth the visit

site_logo

augustenrad . 2020-08-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We swing into the Bull every year on our travels. We stopped this Sunday and had a beef roast. The food was exceptional. Really tasty. Shame it was a bit let down by the service. On arrival we said we have booked a table and the taller of the 2 ladies on the outside reception said ‘have you now’ in a slightly off tone. Then we were looking forward to desert which we had chosen from the menu, but no one asked at anytime after the plates were cleared. We just got fed up and paid the bill on the way out in the hatch on the side of the pub (which we had to ask about, ie how to pay).

site_logo

Jon21London . 2020-08-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We booked an evening meal here for our last night in Berkshire.Seated outside in glorious Weather our experience was just lovely.The Staff here are very professional and super friendly.The food is good with menu selections as you would expect from a country pub / restaurant.All in all a thoroughly pleasant evening meal. Would definitely come again.

site_logo

Y678GWianb . 2020-08-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I walked over, at night, passing thru the churchyard, and felt like in an olde english play. Traditional style pub, good spirits (pun intended), friendly service. Only caveat: dinner would have needed a reservation or 1+ hour wait. As a single guest they kindly squeezed me in:-).

site_logo

anonymousruhr . 2020-04-22

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Really good “Sunday Roast”. Generous portions, all the trimmings, would recommend and will return. Excellent friendly and helpful staff.

site_logo

S5016QUandrewb . 2020-02-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I’ve visited the Bull Inn countless times with family and friends over the years. It was my late father in law’s favorite pub too. I now live in Jersey and try to stay here at least once a year. This pub is in a stunning location - Sonning on Thames village, Berkshire. The Inn is quintessentially English, at its very best. The Bull Inn team, headed by Molly and assisted by Kelly, make a magnificent management team! Nothing is too much trouble and everyone is made incredibly welcome - the regulars and passing tourists alike. Their enthusiasm is boundless! The bar also has a great choice of beers, lagers and wine facing a fabulous open log fire.Our bed room was extremely comfortable with a great en-suite! We stayed one night and had the roast beef for dinner - the very best that I’ve ever had in a restaurant! Fresh vegetables and a cut of beef to die for! Daniel was a great waiter at dinner and at the hearty breakfast the following morning. I recommend the Bull Inn - but you need to book ahead for a dining table or room reservation. Enjoy!

site_logo

Roving421114 . 2020-02-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I’d really rate this good.Randomly popped in Saturday dinner time around 1pm, was busy so we asked about a table and were told 15 mins so sat at bar with drinks.Nobody came to find us, turned out the guy seemed to have forgotten us.At table ordering was quick and not too long for food to arrive.My fish and chips was pretty good but a tiny portion of the squashed peas, I’d say no more than 2 desert spoons full.Nice real ales to wash it down.Disappointed to see there was a service charge of over £6 for the 2 of us imposed.Wouldn’t hurry back mainly because of this.

site_logo

HCT1962 . 2020-02-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A great dining experience, food was delicious and staff very attentive. Over all a chill/relaxed evening.

site_logo

sarahcZ8897VZ . 2020-01-27

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We ate at the Bull last year for a Christmas dinner and it was spectacular, this year it was abysmal. An every course an utter horror show.We learned that the chef has changed and it seems like the previous one wrote the menu but the new one has no idea how to cook it!Pâte turned up without toast and when bread was requested we were given two bits of ore-sliced white bloomer and the news that “the chef is being tight”... at least the waitress was honest.Even something as simple as a roast potato were terrible! Hard on the inside, powdery and greasy on the outside and cut so thick it may as well have stayed whole.The turkey seemed like something you’d be served at an old people’s home in the 70s and vegetarian option - described as a polenta pancake - was a mound of boiled polenta with absolutely no flavour, topped by a piece of flacid, unseasoned kale and a few chopped, boiled carrots. We are about to join a new decade - there is no excuse for vegetarian food to be this badly done.Our desserts were virtually inedible... a poached pear, still hard, sprinkled with truffle oil?! And a rock hard ice cream thing with a strange pre-frozen cardboard sponge thing stuck to its edges. Clearly it has gone from packet in the freezer to plate in just a few seconds.We were all so disappointed as it’s not cheap to eat at the Bull but our food was gross and even though we politely complained we weren’t offered any money off or even a drink on the house.The waitress was nice, the atmosphere is ok (although there wasn’t even music playing in the background so felt a bit flat).This pub needs to make a change in the kitchen ASAP.

site_logo

caofamille . 2019-12-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

A good quality English Breakfast served efficiently by polite and helpful staff. Good choice of options.

site_logo

Kevin H . 2019-11-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

We stayed one night at this Inn and enjoyed lunch, dinner and breakfast. The service was prompt and friendly and the portions generous. It is not a cheap Inn but it has such a wonderful atmosphere and the food is hot, tasty and plentiful.It does get busy and is evidently very popular

site_logo

Pengor . 2019-11-05

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Dinner was good but not excellent. Service was excellent, ambience superb, food ordinary. Both of us ordered a crab burger. Sounded different as did many things on the menu. But deep fried battered brown crab in a salsa wasn’t described or expected. Pretty poor flavour and disappointing.

site_logo

Odom9 . 2019-10-28

MORE AT TripAdvisor

My husband and I had a lovely lunch here today. The chef Daniel is superb and The Bull Inn has such a lovely ambience that it is a joy to eat here. The food is fantastic

site_logo

wendyjmsamuels46 . 2019-10-22

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely food and wine ..absolutely beloved the Mother ambiance.. would go back again, and would recommend ... !

site_logo

Lorraine F . 2019-10-03

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely atmosphere. Comfortable setting. Great food and v good service from bar staff & restaurant staff

site_logo

ChillEnjoy . 2019-09-29

MORE AT TripAdvisor

I have wanted to go to the Bull Inn for a very long time as it always looks so lovely with beautiful hanging baskets outside & steeped in history. So when a friend offered to take me out for my birthday, I jumped at the chance of a lunch there. The food was very disappointing & when we came to pay, my friend was asked if she wanted to add a tip to the CC payment. She declined as she aways likes to leave a tip in cash. The receipt was unitemised & was more than it should have been. When queried a 12.5% tip had been added. When she asked for this to be removed the landlord refused! She then also queried why they charged so much just for a sandwich. At this point he became very agressive and just turned to serve another customer & made some comment about the button not working on the PDQ. He made no offer to refund the over charge. We left having paid nearly £40 for 2 sandwiches & 2 glasses of wine. Very disappointing. Poor food & rude service. I can only assume that he does thisall the time & doesn't get found out. Always ask for a full itemised receipt & watch for the added 12.5% even if you press no!

site_logo

SLaw64 . 2019-09-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

23rd September 2019 - lunch for 4. We wanted a typical "bar" meal, and so all went for the Fullers Foundation beer battered haddock, triple cooked chips, and mushy peas. Just delicious. The fish was obviously fresh and both the fish and the chips cooked perfectly. Ir was just what we wanted. Nice wine by the glass. Lovely pub with masses of exposed timber. Efficient and friendly service. All in all just perfect for our needs on th e day. Highly recommended.

site_logo

D1827OWjohnm . 2019-09-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The pub is absolutely quintessentially English - it’s setting and appearance are idyllic. The staff were good and the menu varied and interesting. I had the soft shell crab burger and it was a little underwhelming to be honest. I would return but would choose something different:(

site_logo

MelReading . 2019-09-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Still a great place to visit even on a busy day, attention to detail great service, fabulous food and well kept beers. Lovely setting and grounds we highly recommend this place

site_logo

238grahamj . 2019-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good food and good drink! We are here whilst on holiday in the area. The food was very good. I had the fish and the batter was so light and tasty. Good selection of local drinks.

site_logo

842SarahL . 2019-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Similary restaurants in South East