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3.2

Based on 2.139 opinions finded in 3 websites

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Nº 545 in 603 in New Forest

Nº 167 of 173 British in New Forest

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..hampuddingcookedporkfishsteakchickencheesepotatoescoffeemustpaypiesandwichsaladoldbeautifulroast

comment_iconOpinions

Nice Pub Restaurant . We stayed on the Beaulieu Inn and we Gad breakfast and and dinner here. Good menu with flexibility for people with allergies or intolerances. Sometimes could be noisy because the customers with kids.

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Javier Marín Martín . 2025-01-09

MORE AT Google

In one word - AWFUL Filthy place, bathrooms not cleaned, dirty plates and cutlery, food an absolute disaster. Inattentive forgetful staff, missed order, truly a memorable experience and total waste of money!

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Alex Fia . 2025-01-02

MORE AT Google

Friendly staff. Excellent service. Perfect location and delicious food and drink. Free ample parking and forest access + wood open fire 🔥🤗👌

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J D . 2024-12-29

MORE AT Google

I've been to the Drift on a number of occasions and always found it quite pleasant, however on this occasion our visit was pretty dire. I ordered 2 portions of chunky chips (at £6 per portion) and 2 portions of fries (at £5 per portion). At first we were given just one portion fries and told the waiter we were still waiting on another fries and two chunky chips. We were then delivered about five minutes later one portion of chunky chips and two more fries.... which were all tiny portions. I also attempted to order via the qr code from the table outside where the fries were listed at £2 per portion, but after going through the process of adding the food and drinks, the card payment wouldn't work. The pub was understaffed, sold out of pretty much everything by 2pm when we arrived and very expensive for the food that we were provided. Over £40 for 4 portions of chips and 4 hot drinks plus a service charge added on that wasn't even optional! Very disappointing and won't be visiting again.

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Cherelle Hartley . 2024-12-29

MORE AT Google

We booked a table online the day before and were seated immediately on arrival. The waiting staff were very professional and friendly. The food was excellent and I asked if their ice cream was gluten-free at all (as its not marked as such on their menu) and they checked with the chef who confirmed the vanilla and chocolate ice creams were gluten-free, so I even managed to have desert today as well as a starter and mains. (I am coeliac). We ate on 28th December so at the moment they are still serving their Christmas menu. Can 100% recommend this NewForest pub, they may not have the most gluten-free options (and I would advise to check online or call them to discuss beforehand if you're anywhere on the fussy eater scale like I am) but they food they do have is seriously delicious and worth eating! They're dog friendly too and we took our lurcher with us.

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Hannah's Adventures in Nature . 2024-12-28

MORE AT Google

Awesome spot in the forest. There’s a perfect bike route directly opposite so perfect for a long day out!

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Alejandra Lopez . 2024-12-28

MORE AT Google

Such a disappointment. I had hoped that eating out on Christmas Eve would add to the yuletide festivities but it was a thoroughly depressing experience. There were candles on the tables but non of them were alight and there were some drab, uninspired garlands of fake greenery. No crackers to pull - even cheap ones would have been a bit of fun and there was no music to lift the despondent atmosphere. I was looking forward to a coffee, but it was undrinkable and I asked for it to be taken away and not added to the bill. It tasted very strange, harsh and muddy and as though it had gone off milk in it. All of three of us did not enjoy our food. We had planned to all have desserts but after eating the mains, decided to cut our losses and run. When I paid the bill I did ask if anything was made from fresh and all the young man could say was, 'to his knowledge, it all was.' It was not his fault that the food was so bad, but he still should have been able to answer this honestly. It was obvious that it was bought-in food. I do not mind one bit paying higher prices for good quality, which is why I left feeling hungry and minding quite a lot.

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Imogen M . 2024-12-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Loved our Sunday lunch here! Staff were friendly and welcoming and the roast beef was absolutely delicious 😍

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Jennifer Came . 2024-12-15

MORE AT Google

Stayed in the hotel next door and used here for evening dinner and morning breakfast. Has good potential it's is look and ambience but food isn't good enough for the price. Burger at £20.00 had a soggy bun, pie was ok but could easily have been a supermarket one for £18.00, you wouldnt notice. brownie was dry and over baked. Staff seem friendly. Morning fry up was also under whelming, bacon was pretty much still raw on one side, egg under cooked, asked for no mushroom and got one! Little things really which add up

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Adam Langton . 2024-11-27

MORE AT Google

Got married here 6 yrs ago, fantastic day, sadly though this place has gone down hill. We’ve come back several times and the staff cannot fulfil basic duties. We’ve come back today on our wedding anniversary as a walk in with our children now, to be told due to high numbers they cannot except walk ins. They claimed between 12 & 3 they were full, except nobody was in there when we came in, nobody was in the car park (both the drift & the hotel itself). Utterly disgusting that they’re running a business like this now and I sincerely hope they change their practices.

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Lady Whistledown . 2024-11-17

MORE AT Google

Perfect meals, tastily prepared. One problem was just range was limited

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Tracy Parker . 2024-11-13

MORE AT Google

The pub is perfectly placed in the middle of the forest for a bite to eat in the middle of a walk/ cycle. We went for a Sunday roast and sadly the food was just alright. Half the meals were cold and although the staff were friendly enough, the service wasn't great. 3 members of staff stood on their phones at one point. Probably wouldn't recommend a visit for the price they charge.

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Jenni Weston . 2024-11-11

MORE AT Google

We have been going to the drift on and off for at least 25 years or so, we give it a break from time to time because of poor food or service however I think we will be giving it a longer break this time. We arrived on Sunday 7 of us to a booked table, the waitress was lovely and we overlooked her lack of knowledge of the products on sale behind the bar because everyone has to learn. Drinks ordered, some arrived some were wrong and I had to go and get my own drink. Food ordered, when it arrived I was so pleased as it looked lovely, well presented on the plate but that was as far as it went. 4 of us had beef, two had pork and child had Mac and cheese. All beef roasts were cold and flavourless. Such a shame because all the ingredients were on the plate to make it a fabulous roast dinner. It would have made sense if the place was busy and the chef/cook was over run but it wasn't that busy. We reminded ourselves why we don't go there regularly. I do have to say we did go for lunch there a couple of months ago and it was good. Please sort it out as it's a lovely walk to your venue.

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Sheila Edwards . 2024-11-08

MORE AT Google

Had a great breakfast!!! where Andrea went beyond her limits to make sure we got what we needed. Very kind and generous women:)

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Valswyn F . 2024-11-06

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Nice place to stop off for something to eat

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Don Webster . 2024-10-27

MORE AT Google

Food was rubbish, really bad. Thai red curry was not a Thai red curry. Strange unpleasant inedible mess. Tasted like off coconut milk was used. Vile. Chips both undercooked and greasy. Prices were high. A total waste of money, more of a con, taking £60 off of us for that crap. Nothing good at all about the food here I’m sorry to say. A dreadful experience - avoid.

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Passenger63588408335 . 2024-10-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Having lived near The Drift Pub & Restaurant over 20 years ago, returning to the New Forest brought back so many memories. I’m so glad I chose this spot for lunch—it was the perfect way to revisit an area I hadn’t seen in over a decade. The New Forest’s timeless beauty provided a wonderful backdrop, and The Drift truly made my day. The service was warm and welcoming, and the food was satisfying and delicious. I’d love to return again soon, not just for the meal but to relive those memories.

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Guillermo P . 2024-10-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Nice food, in the forest good size garden for kids I would imagine this place is great in the summer it's very cozy in the winter

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Major Dj . 2024-10-19

MORE AT Google

I came here last night with some friends/family for some drinks. James (bartender) was very polite, accommodating and friendly. Served us with a smile. Great atmosphere and I came here for dinner a few weeks ago and that was delicious/well priced/service was great! I will be coming again thank you! Will be recommending to all my friends & family.

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Emily J . 2024-10-19

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Just the worst burger. Overly ground mince beef - like spam in a bun with very sweet sauce. Ugh.

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Jonathan Oakley . 2024-10-18

MORE AT Google

Walked for an hour and half to get here and then the same back, only to find the pub was closed. Maybe it would be a good idea to update your website to let people know that you are closed for refurbishment?

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Robert Carter . 2024-10-15

MORE AT Google

I really hate to be a ‘Karen’ but sometimes it has to be done, hopefully for the purpose of The Drift Inn improving their situation. My partner and I went for lunch on Saturday at around 2pm and were hoping for a lovely New Forest pub experience. As my partner is from Devon, I was trying to introduce him to how lovely the New Forest can be through a pub which appeared to be lovely from its photos and menu online. Unfortunately we were hugely disappointed. One thing I will say is that the FOH staff were lovely and I don’t want to fault them in this because they were polite and helpful throughout. However, we arrived and decided to sit in the garden because it was sunny, but we moved inside due to the outside area feeling pretty chaotic with kids and barking dogs etc (not the pub’s fault!). We moved inside and it was pretty much empty, which is somewhat understandable for after the lunch rush period, however there was zero atmosphere. The inside restaurant was completely silent, so much so it felt incredibly awkward with people being able to hear conversations and feeling like you had to whisper because of it. A bit of music would’ve gone a long long way! The water glasses were dirty and plastic, which didn’t match the attempted aesthetic of the pub. We shared the garlic bread prawn gratin starter, which was pretty poor. Just frozen garlic bread slices with some cheese melted and prawns on top, nothing special for the price at all. For mains, I had the fish & chips, with the fish being completely tasteless and clearly cooked from frozen. Fish from a chippy has a lot more flavour!! The mushy peas were also very basic and flavourless. My partner had the Reuben’s sandwich, which is his favourite, but he was incredibly disappointed. The bread was like cardboard, the pastrami was like corned beef from a tin, and the cheese was tasteless. He ordered fries to come with it, which were forgotten, and he had to go up to ask for them, but by then he’d finished eating. Having to pay a £50 bill for something that was absolutely not worth the price was super difficult, as you never want to waste money. I hate leaving bad reviews, but honestly I really think that this place could do so much better. The aesthetic put forward by the pub and its website/menu is completely unmet. Either the prices and smarter aesthetic needs to be reduced, or things need to change to make this place better. Again, not the FOH staff, but a shame about everything else.

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Jess Grout . 2024-10-06

MORE AT Google

We visited the Drift inn yesterday for a roast dinner. The food was so delicious. Kind and tentative staff and the actual restaurant is based out in the New Forest so it’s a perfect place to stop at if you’ve been out walking. Dog friendly, very chilled atmosphere. Loved it.

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Nina Davis . 2024-09-30

MORE AT Google

Only place I have ever been where they add a service charge even though we orderd at the bar! When we asked them to refund the service charge they told us to leave them our credit card details and they would sort it out in a couple of days. Obviously we aren't stupid enough to leave our credit card details with people we don't know so no service charge refund for us. Food was quite nice though at its in a nice area, Shame they feel the need to rip customers off.

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Jon Y . 2024-09-21

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Nice calm pub didn’t get food but bought a nice drink. Hugh was a lovely waiter and was very fast with my drink.

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Danny Tidy . 2024-09-16

MORE AT Google

Very friendly staff. Very attentive waiting staff. Lovely venue. Excellent food. Varied menu. Easy parking. Thank you.

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Maps37909546735 . 2024-09-15

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Where to begin with this. We went for a lunchtime meal on Saturday and when we arrived they had got our booking wrong and we were actually sat in the hotel bar instead of the restaurant. The restaurant was very empty and they could have catered for us there. We ordered food and drinks around 10mins after arrival. Drinks took nearly 30mins after ordering which wasn’t helped by a wedding party which I understand, but we had to ask multiple times for our drinks and we could see the wedding party get their drinks before us even though we ordered before them! We also asked to move tables because the wedding party consumed our table and was very loud. We couldn’t hear each other from sat across the table! They finally moved us. The worst part by far though was the food and the time it took. We were waiting nearly 2 hours for food after ordering and with children waiting. We asked multiple times for an update and we were told they were short staffed and would be with us ASAP. Other tables were also asking the staff the same question but there was no accountability or apologies forthcoming and we had to constantly ask. Food ordered at 12:45 and arrived at 2:45! When the food finally arrived it was beyond it and wasn’t the best quality. We complained, as did other tables and got money off but the issue was communication. If they’d have told us from the start there would be a long wait we could have decided then and there. I also felt sorry for the junior staff who had no support/direction from management and almost felt like they were hiding! DO NOT BOOK HERE!!

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Harry Drew . 2024-09-11

MORE AT Google

Visited on a Saturday for lunch, pre-booked. We were only 1 of two tables occupied when we ordered drinks and food. Drinks took over half an hour to arrive , 2 were just bottles, no glasses or ice had to ask for those. Food took almost 1 and a half hours to arrive which by that time we had to rush as we had somewhere else to be. Food was nothing special so lord knows why it took so long to arrive , definitely would not recommend, shame as the building and location are great, should be so much better with a good management in there.

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leigh white . 2024-09-09

MORE AT Google

Didn't get served for over half an hour so we left and that was just for someone to notice we were waiting for a table . Not impressed

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Anne Marie Lambert . 2024-09-09

MORE AT Google

Nice place for a pub meal. Nothing too fancy but perfectly good place to go.

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Matthew Barry . 2024-09-08

MORE AT Google

The Drift is a splendid place, ideal for the New Forest and surrounding area. In the day we visited staff had not turned up and the new manageress was under a lot of pressure. She explained the situation and apologised for the off-key service. I’m sure once these issues are resolved this’ll be a pub we will visit more frequently.

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Mark Hardaker . 2024-09-05

MORE AT Google

Having visited here many times, and previously always enjoyed the visits, we were sad and disappointed yesterday with its decline. Service was slow from the beginning in all respects, food overcooked, little atmosphere, general lack of enthusiasm from waiting staff, little care and interest shown. A shame as fabulous position with enormous potential. Perhaps just unfortunate as a group of us were there at a quiet time of day. Hopefully a one-off and so, in time, will revisit and try again. Great dog friendly pub restaurant!

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Vera Hanks . 2024-09-01

MORE AT Google

I have to say I had a lovely time here at the drift inn for some Sunday lunch!!! Pleasant staff greeting me with smiles on their faces I felt so welcome. Especially our waiters Andrea and james, they were both lovely and very friendly. Couldn’t have had a better day out!

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Lidia S . 2024-08-18

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Burger over cooked so couldn't eat it. Over charged as they said the kids meal was included with starters and pudding. Didn't ask once how the food was, it would've gone back Took absolutely ages for a kids chocolate brownie to come out, won't be going back.

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Chris Nutburn . 2024-08-14

MORE AT Google

AVOID - ANIMAL ABUSE SYMPATHISERS This pub yearly supports the abuse of gypsy trotters by allowing them to use their facilities during the Cooper Drive. Horses left in heavy harnesses with no food or water after being whipped and beaten all day. You should be ashamed for not turning these people away all in the name of a good days earnings!!

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Lauren Hurst . 2024-08-11

MORE AT Google

Nice menu.... but shocking service and the food wasn't much better. No wines available, no cash payments yet not mentioned anywhere. Asked to start a tab for garden, got laughed at by the obnoxious 12 year old with long greasy hair behind the bar in a waist coat. 2 burgers (both burnt) whitebait (referred to by staff as sardines) and a stuffed pepper took over an hour to come out but no communication from staff to let us know of delay when ordering food (had to go and ask) no check back, no one clearing plates- used to be a busy, quick paced, lively pub in forest- 4 tables in on a Friday night and I can now see why. Plenty of other good spots around so we wont bother returning.

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s g . 2024-08-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Where to start! Upon entering we ordered drinks and service was fine friendly and polite. We sat in the garden and ordered food, asked for all food to be brought out together as we have small children to which 2 parts came out as a starter to wait nearly 50minutes for our main and one other starter (asked to come out same time) no table checks and returned our own plates. all seemed ok and despite the long wait and a fretful toddler now very unsettled and hungry , they did then get busy with a drive which is fine but waited nearly 20minutes for a coke and the kids not able to play in the garden. Found hair (possibly animal) in kids food but chose to just pick it off as after all though it’s not nice but was just abit of hair and they were very busy but to top it off the salad looked wilted and found caterpillars on the salad (not washed) had to walk around to find the manager as bar staff were very unhelpful to him not having much of a response so demanded a refund to recieve just £10 . Sadly I have always liked the drift and had great service, maybe management need to up there game and clearly kitchen hygiene. Everyone has off days but for me this was more than an off day and at nearly £100 still out of pocket will not be returning.

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ARKSest20 . 2024-08-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Avoid at all costs, food is incredibly expensive and not worth it. Ordered a salad that only had 2 out of the 5 ingredients listed. Literally what is the point in being a restaurant if you can’t follow your own menu. Staff are pleasant but honestly, go to any another pub.

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Thomas Clements . 2024-08-04

MORE AT Google

Great new forest pub for families with good and safe children’s play area and nice food served in the garden .

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Jon Moore . 2024-08-03

MORE AT Google

The Drift is in a great location but it's oddly rather soulless inside and out, let down by pretty poor food and limited drinks (no Guinness or Cider available when we visited at lunchtime with some soft drinks also unavailable). Staff were friendly and tried their best. As mentioned by other reviewers, the Drift feels like an opportunity missed - it could be wonderful with a bit of love and attention but sadly it's not.

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Peter Lane . 2024-08-01

MORE AT Google

Beautiful Pub in fantastic location, serving staff were very pleasant. The food was appalling, my salad for £16 consisted of a roll, 3 very small (about 2cm by 4cm) pieces of ham, 2 small piece of tasteless rubber cheese, 2 soft slimy pickled onions, a small piece of apple and about half a stick of celery cut into 3 pieces, and this took an hour to arrive to the table. All the soft drink in our order turned up flat, visibly no fizz. Certainly will not be going back, and highly recommend a place to avoid.

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Glen Kitcher . 2024-07-31

MORE AT Google

We came here on a Wednesday early evening when it was about 29 degrees and were surprised to see the beer garden fairly empty. Then looking at the reviews I was a bit concerned but the staff were friendly and the garden well kept. Menu isn't vast. We ordered a selection of starters and nibbles including potted shrimp, chicken skewers, white bait, pork belly and onion rings. The food arrived promptly and was well presented. All of it seemed fresh and was full of flavours. Particularly liked the Asian slaw with the skewers. The homemade tartar sauce was also very good. We saw some burgers come out and they looked huge! Maybe they struggle to cope when busy but we certainly didn't have the same experience as some of the recent reviews. The location is obviously also lovely.

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Liz C . 2024-07-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Beautiful Pub in fantastic location, serving staff were very pleasant. The food was appalling, my salad for £16 consisted of a roll, 3 very small (about 2cm by 4cm) pieces of ham, 2 small piece of tasteless rubber cheese, 2 soft slimy pickled onions, a small piece of apple and about half a stick of celery cut into 3 pieces, and this took an hour to arrive to the table. All the soft drink in our order turned up flat, visibly no fizz. Certainly will not be going back, and highly recommend a place to avoid.

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Glen K . 2024-07-31

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Good but not amazing. Small and cramped car park with limited spaces available. Visited here for their breakfast where you get unlimited continental and then a set cooked. Nice setting inside though - rustic farmhouse vibe.

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Ian Fry . 2024-07-28

MORE AT Google

Just awful. We’re local and have visited a few times, mainly because of the setting in the forest and in the hope that one day it will be good! This morning is a classic example. We arrived just after 8am for breakfast to be told you can only eat here if you stay at the hotel, this is the pub and restaurant that opens at 8am on the website! Previous experiences are similar: staff don’t know how to make a coffee or how to charge you, quite often you have to find someone to serve you and when we have eaten the food all comes at different times. Finally given up.

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Martyn Price . 2024-07-21

MORE AT Google

We visited The Drift pub with family who live nearby. The staff made us very welcome. They were friendly and very helpful. A massive thank you to Andrea , who went above and beyond. She personally made me custard for my sticky toffee pudding....... it was delicious. We'll definitely return in the near future

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Ady Preston . 2024-07-14

MORE AT Google

Unfortunately it wasn’t a good experience, the main meals did take there time to arrive, and whilst they were tasty, my steak was overcooked. They weren’t very busy, so we didn’t expect to have to ask for things like drinks, or be offered pudding, by the time we received our pudding we had waited 1 hour for this! There were only 2 staff members around at this time, multiple people complained of the time meals were taking to get to the tables. And by this point we wanted to leave. We finally asked for the bill and they kindly removed the service charge and did apologise, but considering we were the only people in the restaurant for the last hour of our meal I found this incredibly difficult to understand. They also removed our puddings from the bill as we didn’t eat them, as they tasted like a mouthful of salt! Overall not a good experience which is really sad as this used to be a good place.

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beth parsons . 2024-07-13

MORE AT Google

Best roast I've ever eaten service was brilliant

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Cassie Sheehan . 2024-07-07

MORE AT Google

Excellent food coupled with a great ambience. Front of house staff very welcoming. And a view overlooking the marina.

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Darrell Lacey Moody . 2024-07-06

MORE AT Google

Ate here last Saturday lunchtime before starting a hike. Had read the reviews so was prepared for REALLY slow service and ordered the least complicated thing; a burger. It took 40 mins to arrive although only 3 other tables were occupied. After 35 mins I had to flag down a member of staff and ask if it was coming soon. Burger was nice though and I couldn’t finish all the chips. Not once while I was eating did anyone come over and ask how the meal was, whether I wanted anything else etc. I asked for the bill as soon as my meal arrived as I wanted to start walking before dark lol. I’m guessing like so many travel and hospitality businesses this place is still suffering the consequences of lockdowns and can only afford minimal staff and I would sympathise with that. I’d eat there again if I have plenty of time.

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K Scott . 2024-06-27

MORE AT Google

Enjoyable pub with friendly staff nicely located in the New Forest. Not the greatest beer selection, but enough to have a nice pitstop.

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Bjørnar Fonn . 2024-06-19

MORE AT Google

The last few times have been less than acceptable, the odd bad day happens of course which I understand and I vary rarely leave a bad review due to this. Today we just had to walk out as we were totally ignored, people who arrived after us were seen before. Staff were milling around but only one person serving. The last couple of visits have been very slow and one time they didn’t have enough menus (it was not busy) so we had to wait for another table to finish with them. It’s a shame as it’s a great location and could be lovely.

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Oliver Lane . 2024-06-16

MORE AT Google

Service was okay, staff were nice enough, however communication between kitchen and front of house needs to be improved prior/during service, as everything we initially ordered was then unavailable once sent through to the kitchen. Having looked at the menu ahead of arriving, we were disappointed the food items we wanted were unavailable and no one was aware until after we’d ordered it. Had to choose an alternative, which ended up either being over done, or underdone in my partners case, and very dry and tasteless. Won’t be coming back.

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Innis Simon . 2024-06-14

MORE AT Google

Decided last minute to go out for evening meal. Visited the Drift a longtime ago, but was pleased to see it had remained the same. Well looked after by staff especially George, thank you. The fish supper was excellent best fish for a long time. It was not overly busy which detracted from the atmosphere. However we will definitely visit again.

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Sue Bartlam . 2024-06-11

MORE AT Google

Tasty Tuesday lunch - generous servings. Waiting staff welcoming & friendly. Would go back.

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C EB . 2024-06-11

MORE AT Google

We had a family group of 10 for Sunday lunch and to celebrate a 60th birthday. Members of the group had dietary requirements and one of the group was a 2 year old. The staff were great , nothing was too much trouble. Everyone had a lovely meal which accommodated all preferences and dietary needs. I would say service was a little slow considering it wasn't that busy. I will most definately return .

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Clare Peters . 2024-06-03

MORE AT Google

We ate evening and breakfast. Both times very slow ( over an hour for our food) and bad service evening meal was uneadable. Hotel next door is badly let down by the pub

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Paula Locke . 2024-06-01

MORE AT Google

Used this restaurant for a two night stay at the Beaulieu next door. It lets the hotel down massively. I ordered a gluten free meal which came to me with bread on it. It appears that only the manager understands Coeliac Disease. The chef and waiting staff need some training. Although the food tasted good, by the time mine arrived, my family had finished theirs. Breakfast the next morning didn’t happen. After an hour of waiting, our breakfasts didn’t arrive. Half hearted, sarcastic apologies from waiting staff weren’t appreciated. Tables left uncleared, no fruit juice available and delays made for a bad experience. I won’t be returning.

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Gail Hopkins . 2024-05-25

MORE AT Google

Cloudy beer, toilets dirty and devoid of toilet paper, soap and paper towels. Tables in the garden full of empty glasses. Grubby. I've had a few duff food and drink experiences at this pub now. What a tragedy. It is in a superb mid forest location.

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Mike Coster . 2024-05-23

MORE AT Google

Whilst The Drift has a beautiful pub garden for a summers day, the food and service has gone seriously downhill over the last couple of years. Not sure I'll return for a while.

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Tom Lewis . 2024-05-21

MORE AT Google

This is the second time I've been let down here. Unfortunately I won't return. It's a really nice pub with good location but needs a big change. A few months back our meal was truly disgusting (soggy pork belly) I complained and got 2 of the 8 meals refunded. This time we only wanted 2 bowls of cheesy chips. They took 40 odd minutes, loads of others had their roast dinners delivered before us despite arriving after us. Then for the price it was a really small bowl with a small amount of semi melted cheese. In the past it was a big bowl and lathered in smoked cheddar, not sure what's happened but I can see why the pub is quiet on days it should be packed.

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T H . 2024-05-12

MORE AT Google

Great location, nice garden, nice staff... let down by the terrible food.

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Paul Douglas . 2024-05-12

MORE AT Google

Had a beautiful afternoon tea here, the food (sandwiches, scones etc) was delicious and plentiful! Service was friendly and polite, a lovely peaceful setting.

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Chris Underhill . 2024-05-08

MORE AT Google

Problem with the kitchen this weekend meant food choice was limited. Food they did have was mediocre at best. Beef & Horeradish sandwich was tough and fatty. When the waiter was told he didn't seem to care. No apology was offered. Food is extremely overpriced for the quality. Sadly won't be back

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Matt Baker . 2024-05-06

MORE AT Google

Not too bad- as we arrived early I guess. Seated quickly for a Sunday lunch as we had booked. Food was middle road- okay beef roast but not being a carvery leaves guests to trust the nature of the carving. Roast potatoes actually pretty good although not as good as the best (crispiness lacking). Greens nice- al dente but cooked. Carrots and parsnips soggy and floppy and not a selling point. Trying to get service for desserts or bill later difficult. Can't believe with the number of tables labelled 'reserved' they weren't able to staff adequately in advance from their teenage army. Wouldn't steer clear but would check out other places first. Just editing- I note the responses to 5 star reviews but not to criticism. Bad show. Further edit: please can the bar server clean her nails. Doesn't inspire hygienic confidence.

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simon . 2024-04-26

MORE AT Google

As a vegetarian, I always like to check online menus before booking a restaurant. Which I did with the Drift, and was pleased to see they had a few choices, however when we arrived we were told that 2 of those were off! Which didn't leave a choice. So regrettably we left to find somewhere that did offer choices. I'm sure this was a one off, however it was a disappointment for me.

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Clive W . 2024-04-22

MORE AT Google

Just rubbish. In the time we waited for any service to appear, we could drive to another pub and have food on our table. In fact that’s just what we did.

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Jeron . 2024-04-21

MORE AT Google

We have been waiting for our dinner over 1 hour whoever the restaurant was empty. The waiter want for a cigarette and open the door allowing all the smoke and cold air coming in to the restaurant. I do not recommend this place Avoid 👎👎👎

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Irek M . 2024-04-15

MORE AT Google

Fantastic pub in the New Forest ideal for walkers. We had a great lunch here and enjoyed a nice walk along the forest track opposite. We had an amazing time here and would recommend it to anyone. The staff were friendly and really looked after us.

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Matthew Morris . 2024-04-14

MORE AT Google

Average atmosphere, but overpriced food and drinks. Just be careful with your bills.

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bibek gurung . 2024-04-14

MORE AT Google

Lovely food and staff, busy which is a good sign

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Sarah Louise Slim . 2024-04-06

MORE AT Google

Not great! Staff seemed to be trying their best but a bit clueless it seems. Food was average, and expensive for what it was. A lot of errors in our order. Twice given the wrong wine (ordered a cab sav, given a sav blanc), mains were meant to all come together but came individually, ordered one salad but were given 2 (on mentioning agreed to only charge for 1), kitchen had run out of 3 of 4 dessert options, waited a long time for everything despite it being pretty empty and a lot of staff working. No one came to check how our food was. We had breakfast the next day, which was baked beans, two small veggie sausages, one tiny mushroom, half a small tomato, 1 small poached egg - this was meant to be £12! Shame as the staff seem friendly and accommodating, just all a bit of a shambles!

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James Fern . 2024-04-03

MORE AT Google

Friendly staff and decent size portions. Tastes from the dishes won't blow you away as the ingredients feel rather budget. But we enjoyed the food and the atmosphere of the place.

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Nathaniel Marsh . 2024-04-03

MORE AT Google

Over priced drinks. A pint, a large wine and a coke £20.45. Felt robbed. Mediocre food and meagre portions. I complained about the roasted butternut squash pasta, I said thats a very expensive handful of pasta and there's hardly any butternut squash in it. He replied thats how it is and walked away not to be seen again. The mash was dry and stodgy. We won't be returning, and I guess the fact that it was virtually empty on a bank holiday tea time says it all.

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Hayley Louise Hobbs . 2024-04-02

MORE AT Google

Honestly don't bother, place was a dive and the toilets were disgusting. We ordered two similar meals, one without an ingredient due to an allergy, when the meals came to the table the waiter told us to work out which one was which.... Such a shame as it could be lovely

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James Cox . 2024-04-01

MORE AT Google

Literally the worst meal experience I’ve ever had, we ended up having to walk out. We arrived just before 12pm with two small children, it took the best part of half an hour to order drinks – we ordered food at the same time as the service was painfully slow. Unless there was a large table/gathering hidden away the main bar and restaurant were quiet and did not explain the slowness in service. The food took another 30 minutes to come out, some small bar snacks and vegetable sticks for our by then very grumpy 4 year old – the veg sticks were dry and old and the bar snacks overcooked. I asked for our daughter’s main to come out before ours as she was clearly hungry, which it did immediately being a very lack lustre macaroni cheese. Then the fun began, by 1pm my husband asked if we could get our mains out as we needed to be home by 2pm – we’re were told they were just coming. 20 minutes later having been offered no further drinks I went again to ask what was going on – we’d been there for an hour and a half, rather awkwardly I was just left standing for another 5 minutes to be told they didn’t actually have the right ingredients for my meal … no one had at any point spoken to us and how the kitchen didn’t flag this is totally bizarre. We decided to leave at this point, to be fair we had the drinks comped but the service from both the front of house and the kitchen was simply appalling. We’ve been to other pubs within the group which are lovely, the total lack of sincere apology and communication from the waiting staff was totally awful. We watched other tables have to go and ask for drinks, complain about meals so it wasn’t just us – if anyone had at any point come to the table to offer drinks and talk to us about the kitchen issues it would have been solvable. Just awful.

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Linnet Dixon . 2024-03-29

MORE AT Google

Nice location. But no atmosphere: No log fire or music on.

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M . 2024-03-28

MORE AT Google

Slow service, mediocre food, gammon very poor, bones in a child's fish meal. Altogether disappointing.

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Jacqui Whitehead . 2024-03-26

MORE AT Google

Very slow service and although most dishes were very good the gammon was poor. Fish bones in the children's meal was a surprise and somewhat of a concern, I appreciate fish contains bones but it should have been deboned before being cooked. Sandwich was tasty although bread slightly dry.

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Jacqui W . 2024-03-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Bit pricey but lovely food. Great service and nice restaurant.

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tina2273 . 2024-03-19

MORE AT Google

Our daughter purchased Buy a Gift ,afternoon sparkling tea for us .This is a perfect location in New Forest ,but certainly doesn’t live up to the website photos .On arrival we were told we would be eating in Beaulieu Inn as The Drift was having renovations.We went into the Inn & there was a pleasant member of staff ,just 1 member of staff was all there was & then shown to our table .There was not any other member of public at all in the time we were there.When the afternoon tea arrived it looked like it was an afterthought & the bread or scones not fresh .The fillings in sandwiches definitely didn’t live up to the description on web .Sadly even the tea /coffee was Luke warm .At no time did any staff check with us if all was okay,the young girl was seeing to something else & we basically saw no one ,so we left .Very disappointing,as this place has so much potential, lacks atmosphere ,& the food & presentation was just not what we’ve had when out for afternoon teas before ,so the price they charge is definitely not worth it .Sadly I cannot recommend going here for that reason

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Penny Wogel . 2024-03-18

MORE AT Google

Our visit to the Drift pub and restaurant was memorable.Food was scumdidilyumptios and the atmosphere was friendly and welcoming. Our waiter Maciej was awesome.

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X1023LVbrendand . 2024-03-16

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Really surprised to see the negative reviews on here. Lovely setting and great staff, had a roast and it was good, not the best I've had but good none the less. Just a mention to Zara our waitress, absolutely lovely person - and fantastic with my children. Really made the difference.

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Passenger818563 . 2024-03-12

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Amazing service and a delicious roast dinner on a Sunday...Will be back!

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Jo Ashley . 2024-03-09

MORE AT Google

We booked a table for my husband’s birthday meal and the online system wouldn’t allow me to book but a call sorted it. The entrance to the restaurant was warm with a welcoming roaring fire but we were seated round the corner in a soulless tiled area near a fire door that was left open during the meal. The waitress was sweet but didn’t know the menu terribly well for recommendations - we honestly thought this was a more upmarket restaurant but it’s more a pub chain feel so the menu wasn’t massively inspiring anyway - quite limited for vegetarian options too. The starters was fine but the mains were… odd! The ‘Thai red curry with coconut jasmine rice’ was actually a basic ragu with a few bits of chilli added and the rice seemed to be simple white rice (not a hint of coconut). There was an Indian naan too with it! Asian fusion??!! We added a side of seasonal veg which was fine but the cheesy chips were soggy. My husband’s birthday meal was a lamb burger was nice but the coleslaw was warm and not great tasting. He enjoyed the burger and a note to those who order this - the onion bhaji is inside the burger… The wine was good though! Honestly this place is a massive wasted opportunity. Stunning location but the ambiance was empty and the food was three star at best. The waiting staff were nice but a bit clueless and suggested that an ingredient hasn’t come in which is why the Thai red curry has become a basic ragu and gave us a free glass of wine but only when I asked for a reduction on the bill. They didn’t offer us dessert either so we called it a night.

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Emma White . 2024-03-05

MORE AT Google

Very disappointing visit for my daughter in laws 21st birthday, restaurant manager acted like he couldn’t be bothered to be there. Food came out looking dry and old. Steak sent back twice for wrong temperature and warm salad. Left without eating anything

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Paul Feeney . 2024-03-03

MORE AT Google

Walked in - ignored 😕 by 5 members of staff. It wasn't full. I walked out. The guy at the bar was lovely - he needs to train the other non-attentive, inefficient staff in the restaurant.

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Michelle B . 2024-02-25

MORE AT TripAdvisor

The food and service here is so bad. It was actually laughable how bad it was. The staff haven't got a clue what they are doing, not their fault but clearly bad training. The food is dry, tasteless and then a premium price. I really would advise you eat anywhere else other than here. Shame because the location and environment is beautiful.

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C lou G . 2024-02-25

MORE AT Google

Avoid at all costs, worst meal we have had in yrs, the roasted butternut squash with mushrooms was like baby food, no seasoning, the "mushrooms" all 5 of them and so small you had to hunt for them, were un edible. the ultimate cheesy chips were the same and probably came of another plate, service took 45 mins, came to pay no cash accepted, and wanted a service charge for sitting in the bar, it was also so cold I kept my jacket on, I did pay, and did not ask for a refund, this food should never have left the kitchen. sack the chef and the manager,

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ronnie0711 . 2024-02-24

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Such a shame. Lovely location and for once a food play area. But that’s where it ends! Service awful. There were only 3 tables taken and both had eaten, but it still Took almost 2 hrs for 4 simple meals. Very bland and tasteless and probably the saddest Sunday roast I’ve ever had for almost £20. Table was dirty and had dirty glasses not cleared from previous guests. No one came to ask for more drinks, desert or general everything ok the entire time. Plenty plenty more great pubs in surrounding area

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Laur C . 2024-02-18

MORE AT Google

We had breakfast there as staying next door, I had to ask for clean mug as mine had tea stains inside! Ordered vegetarian breakfast, sausages were Luke warm! Had to ask for milk for cereal & plates for toast! The food station was very untidy, messy & no one keeping an eye on refilling etc .. it was at 9am , & breakfast still being served till 10am! Not professional at all, Premier Inn offer better & the cooked breakfast is hot! Blame the management for not training team to high standards 😊

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Caroline Clark . 2024-02-11

MORE AT Google

Very disappointed for what appeared to be such a lovely pub. Stopped for a light Sunday lunch whilst walking. Ordered some food n drinks and was automatically excepted to pay by card (nothing to advertise No Cash). They would eventually take cash but offered No Change. Fortunately we managed to scrape together exact money. As for the food, Whilst the (butternut squash) soup was very tasty sadly it was only Luke warm as had been served in COLD bowls. We also observed a few other complaints and maybe this would explain why the pub was very quiet (for a Sunday lunch). Not sure if I’ll go back.

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James Foulds . 2024-02-05

MORE AT Google

Very slow service had to ask multiple times for things and no care really about our experience. Food ok. Wouldn’t recommend.

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Gemma Rees . 2024-01-27

MORE AT Google

Had a Sunday lunch as part of a walk in the forest. Was happy to see dogs are welcome (very much seems to be target audience as almost every table had a dog/dogs). Nice lunch, not the cheapest but good quality and reasonable portions

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Cassie Green . 2024-01-22

MORE AT Google

Service was very slow and distracted, food was tasty but slow to be served and cold after reaching the table. Pub needs to sort out the log burner, it made the pub very smoky. Disappointing this nice pub can’t get the basics right.

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Ash A . 2024-01-15

MORE AT Google

If you like terrible service and burnt food this is the place for you... if not. Then avoid at all costs. Had a 3 course meal here for my birthday meal with the husband. Absolutely horrendous service, super slow even though it wasn't busy when we arrived. Literally 2 or 3 tables. Drinks took forever to arrive. As did the food which was abysmal. Burgers burnt so bad the cheese had actually evaporated! We had to wait another half an hour for them to remake it all. Service wasn't great. We had to go over and ask for our bill as nobody was coming over to tables to check on customers etc Not what we expected for the money And it's such a shame as its a beautiful location. Sadly we won't be returning

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Kerry W . 2024-01-10

MORE AT TripAdvisor

4 of us came here for lunch. Warm welcome with friendly staff. Nice pub atmosphere. 2 of us had the Burger, the beef burger was completely dry and lacked any seasoning, tasting bland. Both came missing the bacon. The Brioche bun was stale and fell apart. This was an £18.50 burger, you can’t charge this much and serve a burger this bad. Pointed out to the waitress the missing bacon, she offered to cook some, but didn’t want to wait any longer as we’d already waited for one dish which was 5 minutes behind the others. Left half the meal, wasn’t asked if everything was ok with the meal when we paid. Won’t be back.

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jon king . 2024-01-10

MORE AT Google

Definitely one of the worst meals we’ve ever had. Service was okay, but the food genuinely seemed like it was from last month. Stale burger bun, cold bacon and inedible beef burger inside. The chicken wings also not edible. Will not be coming back!

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Lara H . 2024-01-07

MORE AT TripAdvisor

Lovely breakfast, great atmosphere, lovely location

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Martin Bull . 2024-01-05

MORE AT Google

Awful sandwiches for lunch. £10.50 for a roast beef sandwich that had more fat and gristle than meat, shop bought coleslaw, stale dry bread and meagre chips. Shan’t go back.

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Chris Denton . 2024-01-03

MORE AT Google

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