The Five Bells in West Berkshire

We'd passed the Five Bells several times but never ventured in. Last night we decided to go for a meal and are so glad we did. It was by far the best meal we've had in a very long time (and we've eaten out a lot recently). The steak and ale suet pudding was delicious, the meat was tender and full of flavour, the pastry cooked to perfection. Cod can normally be a bit dull but it was brought to life by the veloute and the leeks were particularly good. The desserts didn't disappoint either, I'd always wanted to try Basque cheesecake and it was silky smooth and one of the nicest cheesecakes I've had. The restaurant has a lovely feel to it, especially sat next to the open fire. The food was delicious and just the right amount. The staff member who served us was friendly and we had a nice chat. If this place was on our doorstep we'd consider ourselves very lucky indeed!

Well, can't think of any negatives. Easy access as only few miles off M4. Great friendly helpful and patient staff. Good food too

Very friendly and welcoming staff, good pub food, nice atmosphere. But beware of the obligatory 12,5% tip that is added automatically to the bill.

So lovely great food amazing staff very accommodating THE BEST PIE AND CHIPS and lovely cheese cake. My friend had the steak and it was also peng

Lovely restaurant, with great staff. We were a table of 16, not an easy service but they were fantastic, food excellent and just a good old brilliant place. Thank you team, especially Mr Beard you were so patient with us.

Not sure from the reviews why this trip didn’t work.. Attending a local wedding we booked for two nights.. Arrived hungry lunchtime so thought lunch would be nice.. Asked for cider but apparently the cider pump was playing up and was now off.. Ok lager shandy then? Oh I see that’s on the same pump as the cider so also down.. Lemonade is is then. A couple asked for Guinness and this too was off.. Paid the bill inc 12 and a half percent service although as I had been to the bar three times including to order not sure what service I had had.. Ok onwards and upwards check in next.. Will you want breakfast if so here’s the breakfast menu for you to choose and please give us an ideas of time? (breakfast shown as two hour window on website but need to be more specific) As we we running people about this wasn’t ever gonna work.. So no breakfast.. Given the room key I was asked ‘would you like to pay now?’ to which I said I would like to pay on checkout. I was then told, after referral, no it’s policy.. Why give me a choice then? The room was small but clean and reflective of the price so no issues here. What took the biscuit was at the wedding when we were sitting with other guests also staying at the Five Bells who had not had the same breakfast issues and were not asked to pay up at checkin.. Caused much hilarity that.. Why the differing rules? London accent? Guess we will never know.. GC

Thank you very much to Duncan for being a wonderful and accommodating guest house host. I will definitely be recommending the 5 Bells to people in future!

One night stop over. The 5 Bells never fails me 3rd time visit. Great ambience lovely food and a spotless room. The owner should be very proud of his place and staff. No photos but loved the Steak & Kidney pudding

Stayed here on business, lovely little find and great food in pub with lovely outside views ,had the single room and it’s very compact” as stated “so if I stay again will definitely pay extra go for the twin, only gripe is no mirror in room and the small one in bathroom isn’t near a plug socket for a woman doing her hair this isn’t great , no bedside lamp and it would have been great if milk was provided with the tea and coffee found in the communal hallway so that’s why I graded 4 out of 5 .

We were so lucky to choose this pub/restaurant on our way to Bristol. Lovely home made lunch served by friendly and helpful people. Had Steak and Kidney Pudding and my friend had the Venison option. We both enjoyed our meal and would highly recommend eating here.

We've been here several times but this occasion was lunch for my dad's 89th birthday. We were greeted by the always friendly, chatty owner and seated at a pleasant table. Service was great, food was great, surroundings were lovely. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend- such a little gem of a place.

Nice location, good table, very clean toilets, but steak suet pudding dreadful. Too large pieces of meat, poorly trimmed so lots of gristle and undercooked. Were given free puddings as an apology.

Everything was fantastic: polite, informed staff, the presentation of the food and the food itself. The current Snowdrop Menu is an amazing GBP20 for 2 courses. We had a delicious suet pudding and squash katsu curry. The fire took the chill off the air - we'll be back in spring for the massive garden area. PS The village's own bitter is off the charts!!

We stopped off on our way home from Winchester without knowing anything about the pub. What a lovely surprise! A very warm welcome from the local shooters having a pint outside and an equally pleasent greeting from the staff. Very clean, and nice touches with real flowers in the windows. Then lunch ... fantastic iIpted for Local Ham, biubble & squeak with hens eggs and Mustard gravy ( now I like gray but would have preffered it in a separated jug as the dish was a little overpwered by it, Just my taste) My wife had pate served with delicious dark bread. As I was driving I opted for coffee but the selection of beers looked tempting Just one very minor thing and again it's just me but I can't stand being reffered to as "Guys" as in "would you like order guys?"

We popped in for lunch a couple of months ago, whilst in the area. We ordered a selection of " meze" style dishes including a tasty battered cauliflower with chilli sauce. All dishes were flavoursome and we really enjoyed the country pub atmosphere, so we're returned a day or two later for dinner. I ordered the banana blossom veggie " fish and chips" which was amazing. As a vegetarian it's wonderful to go somewhere with a variety of ' different ' vegetarian options. My husband had the burger, which he said was OK but not anything special. Sevice was friendly and relatively quick despite the pub being very busy in the evening. We would definitely return and would recommend. Thank you.

So disappointed with the pub. We will not be going back. The food was good but the staff were appalling!!

I think this is a wonderful pub and restaurant but unfortunately I hadn't been able to visit in a while. Today I went for Sunday lunch with a friend, food was good but I was disappointed with being asked to get off the table before I'd finished my drink. We had starters mains and one pudding. The table was booked for 12.30 and just after 2pm we were asked to move even though it was very busy with no other space to sit, no chance of having a coffee and barely having finished the desert. I ended up leaving my drink. I know it's become popular but it's a real shame to be treated like this.

Just had a lovely Sunday roast here with family, all of us had empty plates so you absolutely can't argue with that. It's a lovely pub with a beautiful open fireplace and low wooden beams. The quality of drinks on offer is so pleasing compared to the norm you see everywhere else - the wine selection particularly deserves a mention! Our roast dinners were delicious, my beef was cooked perfectly and the veg was all of good quality and cooked well. Deserts were always well received and mopped up - we were genuinely so impressed with our experience at the 5 Bells, we will be back. I also have to mention that the background music was also superb, which makes me happy. Thanks guys, great food, drinks and service - see you again!

We were a party of 2 vegans and 2 omnivores, absolutely fabulous sunday roast. 3 courses are actually vegan too. often I find that places do not offer 3 courses for vegans. This was one of the best vegan starters and roast dinners I have had, whilst dining out, for a very long time. I am only rating the first 2 courses as sadly I was too full for a pudding. Highly recommended. Thankyou for caring enough to cater properly for us who dont do dairy.

Perfect Sunday roast, service was immense, they managed to squeeze us in despite being fully booked. The first roast dinner we have had out my toddler actually cleared her plate. Well done and we will be back

Living in the area I’ve always heard how wonderful this pub is so it’s with sadness I can’t agree. Everyone else’s food there were no issues with. The kids meals with the two sizes is a great idea, the broccoli went down well and all children had empty plates which is a result. The Hunters chicken that I had was so dry, it had hardly any sauce and to make it worse I couldn’t even cut into the chicken it was so hard the knife wouldn’t go through it. It would have been a steak knife to soar its way through it. It was tough and dry and not enjoyable at all. We hardly ever go out so this was a real disappointment. Not a pub I’d recommend sadly because of that. However I can’t fault the staff or the venue.

Lovely pub great staff and fantastic food highly recommend and will definitely be coming back great gluten free options.

Fabulous Sunday lunch really good food all cooked from scratch. The garlic mushrooms amazing, if you like snails you will love this dish. Beef beautifully cooked and all the veg and sides perfect. Good value too. Highly recommend this lovely pub.

Has slipped a bit since our last visit, service was incredibly slow, they seemed to be breaking in a new member of staff by dropping the poor chap in at the deep end, I like a slow lunch, but this was a bit too glacial even for me. Otherwise, food is of a good standard and portion size is fine but the chef needs to get past his love of comically small-sized plates and wooden boards to put them on.

A quick stop while travelling and needed a meal en route. This is a fairly regular journey and always liked the look of the 5 bells. Our food was lovely, fish and chips, Wiltshire ham eggs and bubble and squeak. Sat in the back garden over looking fields away from the road on a warm summers night. Also a nice range of ciders and beers I unfortunately couldn’t get to taste.

Stopped for the night on our way to London from west Wales, and it couldn’t have been a more welcome place for a weary traveller. Let much was beyond expectation, best fish snd chips ever. The menu is modern creative pub classics, and who ever designed the menu knows what they’re doing. Brilliant staff, bartender friendly and knowledgeable. The room was perfect. Again a perfect combination of classic cosy and modern. Claw foot bath, separate shower, extra large comfy bed with good linens. Thank you so much, Would recommend to anyone!

During the pandemic, I have become a regular visitor to the Five Bells and have always been impressed with the good food, friendly atmosphere and service and the pub's commitment to the community. I booked it for a special family Sunday lunch and it did not disappoint even though we turned up late. It speaks volumes that the party, including two professional cooks and three teenagers who want the simpler things in life, were all happy! Many thanks, Ben

We booked one night on a whim as there were a few places we wanted to visit in the area. The fact the pub brews beer on site was a big draw for my husband.Our room was small but perfectly formed, and a steal at £65 on a Saturday night. the bathroom was lovely with a decent shower. Plenty of towels and pillows provided. Bed was softer than I would normally like but that's personal preference.As the rooms are small there is limited space for a hospitality tray, so a coffee pod machine and kettle are supplied in the foyer, with a choice of brews and fresh milk (marked for each room) in a little fridge.We ate in the pub and it was wonderful - my husband had sea bass in a mussel broth and was in rapture from the first mouthful. I had the chateaubriand which was tender and full of flavour. The chips accompanying it were the best I've ever eaten

The room was sufficient although absence of coffee in room, and having to go downstairs to use a fancy machine a bit of a faff! The evening meal was amazing food but very disappointed that no breakfast (at all) available.

Really disappointed I am having to write this, as the pub seemed friendly and staff seemed good.However the menu has no prices.I wanted something quick and easy, so chose the burger.The burger was red and raw in the middle, I hadn't noticed until it was too late to send back.When mentioned to the staff, there was no apology, just I will let them know.For someone who doesn't live in the area, it wasn't a good experience.So I paid for a roll and fries as the meat was left on the plate... £13 is a lot of money for a chip cob.

For those who are still cautious about Covid the 5 Bells Wickham has a great covered out door seating area. Went for lunch today. The weather was horrendous but we stayed warm and dry in the heated covered outdoor area. The food was amazing. The staff were brilliant and very accommodating. The toilets were spotless. An all round great afternoon on a miserable rainy day.

No praise too high for this immaculate piece of comfort, and such charming and willing proprietor and staff

The food was incredible. I have never had such a flavoursome steak in my life. The venison was also delicious. The bar staff and a young server were both very polite and provided wonderful service! The only bad thing I have to say it that the owner is very blunt and miserable - arguably rude and lowered the overall experience. Owners won't have repeat customers If they're rude!

I booked a table for Saturday night which was really easy to do on line and my confirmation came through really quickly.My husband and daughter had lunch here a few months back and said that the menu was great, so we were really looking forward to going.Unfortunately it appeared that they had changed the menu and there wasn’t much we fancied.We had to ask twice to see the specials board only to be eventually told there were no specials that evening and the had to ask again to get someone to take our order, as the staff seemed more content on standing behind the bar chatting.If I’m honest the food was mediocre. There was far too much lemon pepper on the whitebait, it was so overpowering. I mentioned it to the waitress but I feel it fell on deaf ears. I had the grilled vegetable linguine, which again was over powered with lemon (or it may have been the after effects of the starters) who knows.When we asked for the bill a 10% service charge had been added straight away (£4.95). Don’t get me wrong, I am all for tipping but I feel it should be at the discretion of the bill payer if they feel they had great service – which we didn’t. We did not, however remove it as we appreciate a lot of businesses have been through a rough 18 months.All in all very disappointing food and staff who were more interested in having a chat behind the bar.Not sure we’ll go back.

Was passing and asked if possible to get a meal (they were quite busy and finished cooking at 6 and we arrived just before) luckily the chef said yes, so glad we got to eat here as the portions were big and delicious

We had driven past so many times when traveling from the A34 to points west on the M4, and finally decided to break the journey here, for a meal. Turned out to be an excellent decision.Not much needs to be said. Friendly service, good selection of beers, good food, good ambience. 5-star pub loos, too! We had the portobello mushroom rarebit as a starter - superb. Main courses: beer battered banana blossom (vegan fish and chips substitute) and 5 bells beef burger both very good. If you are local you will already know about the five bells. If you are heading along then M4 and don’t fancy the motorway services, you will have an infinitely better experience here. Worth a detour. We will be back.

We stopped here mid-journey on our way to the Wye Valley and what a fantastic find it was. Lovely cosy pub, it was raining so we sat inside with our 2 dogs who were made very welcome. The food was fresh and delicious, huge portions too. All the staff were extremely welcoming as well. Definitely worth a visit.

Menu on website looked good, especially the roasts so gave it a go! Easy booking. Pleasant reception and staff - one a bit frosty, one very sweet, so a reasonable balance! It was part of our anniversary weekend and I was looking forward to roast lamb or pork whilst he wanted roast beef. He wasn’t disappointed and ordered rib of beef. Alas no roast pork Or lamb so I ordered Cornish haddock and chips with some sort of pea purée. Starter was fine and arrived quickly. Mains arrived, ordered a glass of Merlot with beef which was very good. The beef, I’m told was the best beef he’d had at a pub restaurant and did mention this to our server. Also cauliflower cheese was good, shame about the deep fried roasties and microwaved veg. The best bit of the fish and chips was the tartare sauce, a few chips that were cooked properly and not much else. I’ve read the reviews from others and I think this must have been a bad day for fish and chips!Nice atmosphere, mildly busy in the garden, clean and pleasant surroundings.Sting in the tail was the 10% service charge on the bill including a very expensive small glass of wine. Perhaps we should have paid cash at the bar for that - might be worth considering if we go back. This is quite seriojus as nowhere on the website was it.made clear that there was 10% service charge, nor did I see it on the menu. We would have left a tip and did round up the bill but this really left a sour taste in our mouths the wine Wasn’t worth the price plus 10%. We were asked if everything was ok and mentioned the positives but really felt awkward about making a fuss. Once I’d tried my meal I realised it wasn’t up to par and would have been most uncomfortable if it had been taken away to be replaced whilst my husband tucked into his favourite beef!

So. I'm not one to normally review. This hostelry however has forced me to do so. It's FANTASTIC! Friendly professional service. Went above and beyond for my family.

We had a fabulous stay. The staff did everything possible to make our daughter's wedding reception feel extra special, despite the restrictions. We stayed for two nights, the rooms were clean and fresh. The food was outstanding throughout, using local produce too. Thank you to all the staff for being so helpful and friendly. A fabulous venue.

Attended on Friday at 5.30 , not many people had arrived yet , which was nice , we sat in the bar .. could have been at but more atmosphere.. however .. the drinks order was taken quickly but it was a while before they came to take the order , I did think the menu was quite limited but understand with the current situation. I asked about the pork chilli the waitress went to check and I was told it was made with pork mince .. when it arrived it was actually made with pork meat itself .. surely someone should know what the contents are. Pricing was okish , I did expect a little more food on some of the meal choices but was ok.My friend tried the banana blossom which we had never heard of before , when cut into it looked like chicken ..

Had an over night stay in the Five Bells. Very comfortable refurbished rooms. Everything we needed provided. Quiet and peaceful.

We had an amazing Sunday lunch under the stretch tent in the garden. There were 11 of us and as it was Father’s Day, it was busy. The stretch tent is very atmospheric with 2 fire pits and fairy lights. The service was first class. We were offered drinks immediately and both courses came out quickly. Staff were really attentive and friendly. The food was fantastic- everyone was really pleased with their meal. Would highly recommend this family friendly, dog friendly country pub. Great walks on the doorstep and very close to the M4 junction 14.

Had driven past Five Bells for years on regular trips from Bath to Newbury, always wondering what it was like. Recent positive feedback from friends suggested it might be worth a visit.Arrived for a 12.30 booking. Quick delivery of drinks but then lengthy wait before food order taken.Long, long wait for starters and another long long wait for mains. Left after two hours having decided to skip desserts or coffee for fear of another lengthy wait.Food ok but not exceptional. Our party’s starters choice comprised mushroom rarebit, nice idea but not brilliant, prawn and crayfish cocktail, mainly small crayfish on a lettuce leaf and mackerel pate which was fine. Mains were sea bass fillet on a bed of beans and asparagus, rib of beef which was just about ok but accompanying bubble & squeak dry and a massive plate of ham, egg and chips, probably the best dish of the day with very good chips.Pub ambience was very acceptable but food quality and failure to at least reassure us that the food would eventually appear is likely to put us off returning anytime soon.

Was met with rudeness as soon as we walked in door ,manager I assume. Didn't even get to order a drink! Still completely baffled as to why.. didn't even speak a word to anyone!

Just enjoyed a fabulous lunch at this venue. A good drive for us the meet friends half way and it was well worth the ride. Staff extremely friendly, and had great product knowledge, music great, and food was delicious. There really is nothing bad to say, and if there was I would. Most definitely going back.

My husband and I went here on Friday night and had another excellent meal. The venison burger was delicious and my husband said the pork belly was amazing and the bottle of Pinot Noir set the whole meal off beautifully. My husband finished the night with an Irish Coffee which was very well made. Great choice of Gins too.

We Popped here on Saturday.The First time we had visited for a number of years.The Weather was fantastic so we choose to sit out side..The Service was Fantastic from all of the Staff.They are all very helpful and Friendly.We Decided to have Lunch and a few drinks.The Menu is Varied and we were not disappointed with our food or the Portion Size.It was So good we booked Sunday Roast for the next day.Again that was amazing and A Very good portion Size.The Toilets are Very Clean and Smell nice.There is a Large Selection of Drinks on offer.And of course the Local Wickham Ales.We enjoyed it here and will be back.Good Luck to the Owners and Staff and Thankyou for a Very Pleasant experience on both days we have visited this weekend.

Food excellent - well cooked and very tasty. We had T-bone steak - melted in the mouth and slow cooked rib. Pudding also excellent.

Well controlled and safe eating environment with two welcome fire pits. It was a very chilly May evening ! Great food and beers with a friendly and efficient service under the current restrictions. Good well balanced menu definitely worth a visit if you haven't been before the new management took over

Easy to book.Good "response" to exiting Lockdown i.e. pub welcoming, good food and drink, table available to us for the afternoon...late Christmas celebration. Yes, food is good all had 2/3 courses and not a complaint to be had. Atmosphere only 4 stars as a bit chilly outside, not pubs fault just the weather sunny but chilly when wind blows...blankets are provided. Now found we will return on our various trips to Wales...much more enticing than your average Motorway Service Station. We had a local walk in the afternoon through the woods etc. very good before we split our various ways back to "partial" lockdowns. Our early arrivers also enjoyed "outside market" (preloaded with Scotch Egg), I assume this is only Saturday morning. Finally forgot to mention the beer...very good and large choice

We arranged to meet with our family for a table of 6 for the first time since lockdown and had not seen our son and his fiancé since last summer owing to him living in a different part of the country.On arrival we were given an outside table that was cleared in front of us but the old plates and cutlery were just taken away, no sanitisation spray was used to clean the table, fortunately my wife had some antiseptic wipes with us so we did it ourselves.We sat down and ordered drinks but no lime for a lager and lime and then someone came over to take food order but we needed a couple of minutes more so asked them to come back 2 minutes later. We then waited for 30 minutes for someone to take our order despite us asking two other staff who said yes I will be right there and did not come back.We then waited for an hour yes an hour for our food to come out. In the mean time a waiter came out and put two roasts dinners on our table but we had only ordered one of that type, which we told him, he scratched his head for a minute was about to take one away then realised he had given the food to the wrong table. My son adult son who had ordered that meal had picked up one of the plates and put it in front of him assuming it was his until the waiter realising he was at the wrong table picked up the plates and took them to another table.....in a pandemic.......REALLY?When our food did eventually come out (after several nudges to the waiting staff) the quality was fine but it was cold, given by this time we were all starving we just sucked it up. We asked for salt and an empty salt shaker was given to us. We got another waiter to ask for another salt shaker and was told they could not open the salt shaker and therefore could not refill them? Consequently they bought out some salt in an egg cup for us to put our fingers in and put on our food, again in a pandemic??We were going to have puddings but decided we did not want to risk another horrendous wait so just ordered the bill instead. We waited for it for ten minutes and asked again for the bill, again another ten minutes until my son again asked in no uncertain terms for the bill which did then turn up. There were several waiting staff on duty but no-one apologised at anytime for the delay, no-one checked that the food was ok, we were given the wrong food and then it was taken away, the salt episode, we sanitised our own table and the kicker, they added 10% service charge to the bill!!I am sorry but never again

First night back post lockdown. Food was excellent, really great atmosphere with lovely outdoor seating, lighting and heating. First night of many.

We had a family lunch here on Monday April 12, the first day of opening this year, and were so impressed with the service we were given. Our party ranged in age from 89 down to two 9 month babies and we were all looked after really well! It was a very cold day but we were under cover with a heater and clean blankets and managed to spend nearly 3 hours outside together. When I went to change my grandaughter's nappy, the baby changing surface was out of action so I was shown into a guest ensuite bedroom to use instead! The food was all freshly made,hot and delicious. Congratulations to the staff at the Five Bells for being so ready on the first day of opening!

Due to Covid, the pub is shut. But Duncan Craig produced a fantastic takeaway dinner for 2, complete with clear & concise instructions on how to complete the preparation. The menu was most imaginative with an interesting array of starters and a succulent Beef Wellington. The portions were so generous, we had enough to repeat the experience another day!!We wish Duncan and his team every success for the future of the pub and we look forward to once more being able to visit the pub for another lovely meal.

Just had a lovely meal at The Five Bells. Sat outside under a big marquee by a heater so nice and toasty (although still wrap up warm) so I could socialise with a friend. I had the steak and ale suet pudding with great mashed potato and veg, followed by sticky toffee pudding. Fantastic food, lovely service - will definitely be going back again!

We were out for a weekend walk and decided to make a detour to visit the Five Bells. Have them a quick call to confirm they were open and then popped in. Super friendly service with plenty of outdoor seating with heating. We enjoyed the Five Bells burger (£13) and the Halloumi burger (£11). Staff could not do enough to help and were happy to get a bowl of water for doggo too!We’ll be back for sure. Great to see these guys surviving a difficult time during the pandemic.

Excellent Sunday Lunch. Starters, roasts and desserts all very tasty and generous portions. Great service as well. Thx. Will be back again.

I am always staggered how pubs can vary, the surrounding can be excellent but let down by unfriendly, unmotivated staff with attitude. Sadly that was our experience with dinner at the five bells. The food was very average, fish ok, nothing special, pasta not great, steaks ok but expensive. It was as others have mentioned, the staff that made you feel unwanted, rather an inconvenience for them to serve you and painfully obvious they did not want to be there.

We were out walking in the area and realised a quick detour would get us to the Five Bells so we decided to pop in for some lunch. We got a friendly greeting and had no problem getting a table. We enjoyed the Five Bells Burger and the Halloumi burger. Both were juicy and tasty and came with fries. The pub is dog friendly and the staff were happy to provide a bowl of water. When we departed, I inadvertently left my mobile phone on the table. One of the team came running after us to return it. Just superb. We will definitely visit again. Thank you!

Love the food fast great service I would recommend all the food on the menu had a great time I will be going back soon

A great setting, but that is the only good thing to say. It wasn't very busy, but I got the feeling the unhappy staff wanted to be there less than us. The food was limp and bland, boring unappealing pub grub at gastro pub prices.

This is the first time we've been to The five bells at Wickham but definitely not our last! Two adults and three children. Two adult fish chips, one kids pasta, one kids chicken gougons and one kids chicken burger. All very generous portions. The kids meals all went down well. The adults fish and chips were amazing. The batter on the fish was lovely and crispy. The peas were the best ever! The chips also good very crisp (not to everyone's liking). Didn't think we would have room for pudding but managed to share a chocolate brownie and bakewell tart- both delicious. Bonus we sat in the garden that's lovely and spacious. Great area next door for kids to play (play park with huge playing field). Can't wait for our next visit.

This used to be our favourite place, good food, good service, lovely old building and big garden. Today we booked a table for 13.30 and at 15.00 we were still waiting for our fish and chips to arrive.Now we have been a few places post covid lockdown and appreciate the challenges but everywhere else has provided superior service and timeliness by comparison. Service was not rude, just failed to really deliver. We were not warned that the food would take so excessively long and no real apology. This spoilt the experience as we had a time limited baby sitter and were left with no time for dessert and having to rush our mains.We had fish and chips. The batter was crisp but flavourless. The chips were very crisp but excessively greasy, with much of each chip turned to a hard crisp layer and almost no fluffy potatoe within. The crushed peas were delicious though. As we drive home I am feeling disappointed as we can no longer recommend this pub.

I was very impressed by the standard of cooking and menu at the Five Bells & believe you get excellent value for money. If I’m honest I have paid more for less at other venues so this was a welcome surprise, especially post lockdown. Huge outside garden, great for kids and the service was really friendly and welcoming. Could not recommend enough.

We last visited on my husband's birthday in February when we had an excellent meal. We were pleased to see that the pub had opened again after the general reopening so thought we would try for Sunday lunch today. Much is the same as before inside. As in a lot of places we have visited, Test and Trace appears to be optional though I did comply. None of the staff are in masks or visors; depending on your views on such things you will either be comfortable with this or you won't. Table service as before and all very efficient. The bearded hipster guy behind the bar we found lacking in warmth and rather curt. Excellent food as on our previous visit. We had rib of Beef and half roast chicken respectively with nicely cooked accompanying vegetables. My meal was a little underseasoned but it was no less enjoyable despite that.

We went here for an evening meal with some family friends. We received a fast service and they catered extremely well to our vegetarian party member. We were also extremely satisfied with the social distancing measures put in place, though part of this was leaving the door open which made the pub freezing cold so maybe better heating is needed. However, we were not given a drinks menu when they asked for our drinks order which meant we were left to sort of guess without exploring our options (something I wouldn’t expect from a pub). The menu of food is also extremely limited and though the food served is nice, it wasn’t amazing for the prices. I had the 5 bell burger which was rather greasy and left a pool of grease on my plate.

Great food, drinks and hospitality. Four of us sat in garden, and the friendliness and service couldn't have been better. All had different meals, and enjoyed every one. We will return!

Good food good service.Right measures have been taken to ensure guest satisfaction during this times.What else can you ask for.I definitely recommend

From the first greeting to the whole experience, thumbs up all around. Amazing food and service. Shared dishes as they looked and tasted superb. Thank you for the hospitality, we will return

A really lovely homely environment. Didn’t know what to expect because of Current situation with COVID19 and the first time I’ve been out in months but was really nice to feel normal again. Staff put you at ease immediately on arrival and it was clear what you needed to do and was well explained. We had privacy and adequate distance from others. Space was respected. Staff were polite and friendly. First time we have been to the Five Bells but it felt relaxed and put us at ease immediately. Felt reassured and safe. Food was delicious and reasonable in price. Thank you for making the first time out the house to eat in months and enjoyable one. We will return.

Our second visit to The Five Bells was as good (if not better) as our first.None of us knew what to expect this weekend, but the staff at The Five Bells have nailed it! They have managed to create a safe environment whilst maintaining a relaxed and layed back atmosphere. These people are clearly passionate about what they do which is reflected in their standard of service and well thought out menu.I can honestly say that my lunch today was amazing (compliments to the chef).

Three of us had an mid week evening meal, all had different starters and mains everything was excellent. Staff very friendly, cosy log fire will definitely be back some of the best pub food we have had in a long time. We live locally.

Went for Sunday lunch with friends, only set menus available on Sunday, either £23 for two courses or £28 for three courses. There is a £5 supplement for roast beef which is ridiculous as there were only three slices of average beef on the plate. We had the 2 course meal, the other meals were just ok. There is a choice of desert, the “sherry” trifle arrived in tiny glasses, more a child’s portion. On leaving the pub we spoke to a staff member and told him our thoughts, I said I would be writing a report on Tripadvisor.......he said go ahead as they don’t read reviews on Tripadvisor!! Maybe they should start!

After yet another change of owner, landlord and refurbishment, tried this long time favourite again last week for lunch and jolly good it was too.Warm greeting on arrival was followed by quick service to our table if drinks and menus offering a good and wide choice, our orders taken with a smile and the food arrived well presented and without undue delay despite it being cooked to orderMy colleague on finishing said, not sure what yours was like but mine was B,,,dy good,mine was as well and woudl have no hesitation recommending to anyone looking for an easy to reach out of town establishment for lunch, will try for dinner in the coming weeks

Nine of us booked in for lunch at the Five Bells after snowdropping at Welford Park. Good varied menu which suited everyone; smaller portions available for those who didn't want a full meal. Starters, mains and desserts all good. A very impressive selection of beers and attentive staff in a characterful pub with a nice atmosphere. What not to like?

Having visited the snowdrops at Welford with some friends we thought we would pop into The Five Bells for a snack afterwards. Hubby and I were regular visitors under the previous ownership due to the very good range of ales sold, but latterly as prices went up and beer selection went down, we ceased visiting. Inside the pub has had a little TLC and looks clean and tidy though very much has the feel of a restaurant which is a shame as there is still a very good range of beers and you don't want to deter drinkers. The menu was very good with something for all tastes and pockets. We chose from the lunchtime snack menu; I had the Bubble and Squeak which was beautifully presented and tasted great. My companions enjoyed their meals too and also had puddings and pronounced them delicious. The beers on tap looked to be all locally sourced with one offering from the always excellent Wild Weather stable. Well done to the new owners for making a strong start to their tenure; on this showing the pub will certainly be back on our agenda.

Under new ownership. Food was excellent - all 3 diners very happy. Good selection of ales and lovely roaring fire. Will definitely return but guess will need to be prepared to book in popular times.

After an evening sitting in front of the open fire, eating home made steak & kidney pudding, with a choice of seven well kept local real ales, in a thatched country pub, I'm beginning to wonder if it was all real or if I'd just dreamt the perfect country pub experience (where was the buxom milkmaid?). Only one way to find out; I'll have to go back and check, probably quite a lot.Seriously though. The food is excellent; the bar is real ale heaven; the owners welcoming and engaging. It's just superb.

What a great pub ! Fantastic food, great selection of beers, friendly service and a really nice interior and feel.We visited nearby Welford Park and decided to pop into The Five Bells for the first time for a bit of lunch. So glad we did - the food was so good ... really great quality. Try the fish finger sandwich or fish and chips ! Great beers too - plenty of craft ales, IPA’s and lagersWell done - Keep up the good work !

Excellent choice of Real Ales. Food was exemplary and the Open Fire created a great ambience. Will definitely be back

I wrote a review when this pub reopened and then the beer prices were stupidly high. Went there today and can report normal business as before. The beer selection was bigger, and the prices are what you'd expect for a country pub. It's back on my will regularly visit list....they do need to sort out a few more tables/seats...it's basically geared up for diners, which I get, but they need drinkers too...so seats or places for drinkers... Not wishing to teach a landlord to suck eggs but real ale needs to shift fairly rapidly or it goes off, so you need those drinkers in there as well as the Sunday roasters....but massive improvement...be there again soon

Outstandingly good gastro pub, warm and friendly (open fire) , super service. Interesting menu. Fabulous steak and chips! Wide selection of beers and wines. Easy parking. Excellent chef- so great food.

This pub has recently come under new ownership, so we popped in to see what has changed.

At The Five Bells, Wickham, we had of the best Sunday lunches we have ever had. The menu was tempting and the food was of excellent quality, cooked well, presented nicely and served in an efficient and friendly manner. It cost a little bit more than we would usually pay for a Sunday Lunch, but it was well worth it. The new owners are making quite an impact and, in my opinion, are creating a 'must visit' restaurant in the area. We will be back soon to try their weekday menu and will certainly recommend it to friends.

Have been here twice since it has been taken over and refurbished. Both occasions the staff were very friendly and welcoming and we had fantastic delicious meal. Can't wait to till the next time !

Cosy little nook of unexpected joy. The staff are lovely, but it’s the food that you’d return time and time again for. YUMMY!! From the homemade pies (and suet puds) to the delicious desserts..... we left in a happy food coma. Highly recommend stopping here for a visit. We came back twice in two days. A diamond in the Wickham wilderness.

Duncan, wanted to say a massive thank you for a fantastic lunch and to your wonderful staff for their attentive service. Mum enjoyed the Goats cheese salad as a main and I had Ham, eggs and Yummy Chips.

Exceeded our expectations, ,small ,cosy attentive service .We all (6) enjoyed the delicious food Would certainly recommend and will return Reasonably priced as well

Fantastic meal with friends. Every dish was really tasty, the oxtail nuggets were a surprise, simply amazing. The beers are really good, some lovely ales and crisp lagers too. The log fire with some fine port rounded of this festive gathering, everyone was really happy, if a little stuffed.... The staff are great, plenty of parking, top notch. Looking forward to summer to make use of the beer garden. Well worth a visit.

Just had a wonderful meal for four in this recently reopened pub.Very good menu with varied selection of traditional pub grub, served by friendly knowledgeable staff. Thoroughly enjoyed our meal- good portion sizes- particularly good fish and chips and an excellent oxtail suet pud from the specials board.This was all enjoyed by the roaring log fire.Extensive choice of beers,ciders etc.All in all very pleased to see this lovely old pub has managers that appear to care and appreciate their customers.

I've tried nearly everywhere locally for Sunday Lunch and heard that The Five Bells was under new management so booked in swiftly.

We had a warm welcome and a lovely lunch at the Five Bells. The lunch menu is perfect, there are loads of gluten free, tasty options including fish and chips and the service is friendly and knowledgeable. The pub itself is has been renovated well but has kept its old world charm. It is easy to find about a mile or so off the M4 near Hungerford. Well worth a visit if you are passing.

Just been in this pub with friends after a great karate tournament in Newbury. What a fantastic proper old fashion pub. Great selection of craft lagers and beers and very friendly staff. Kids were welcomed. Strongly recommend

Four of us had lunch in the Five Bells today. The food was delicious and generous. We thoroughly enjoyed our pies and suet pudding - four clean plates when we’d finished. The chef / owner was very friendly and happy to talk about our food, and the gentleman behind the bar was friendly and attentive too. Will definitely return.

Nice to see this pub re-opened. Obviously totally new owners but they've pretty much kept the pub as it was in design and decor. Few less beers on offer, but apparently they may re-open the micro brewery as well. One word of warning the beers are grossly over priced. The chap behind the bar explained that they are trying to negotiate a better price on their beer, they're gonna have to, there is no way I will pay £5.50 for a beer I can buy locally elsewhere for £3.80. I kinda get that pubs out in the sticks can sometimes be a little pricer, but I went in there anticipating to pay about £4.00, I wasn't expecting to pay £5.50. I hope they get it sorted as it's a great pub in a great location, but I won't pay those sort of prices for beer, when there are other great pubs also in great locations. Come on 5 Bells regain that top slot. To be fair I can't really rate the food, only had some chips, but they were pretty good, proper chips not packet stuff....

Having just moved to Welford we thought we would try out our new local pub.

We visited on their opening night under new management and what a surprise. Traditional pub grub but.

New owners have just taken over so gave it a go. Lunch was good no complaints there but paying over £5 for a pint!!! I had a pint in London a few days before hand and it was under £4. Their excuse was the suppliers are charging them high as they are a new customer, I’m sorry but most deals are cheaper as a new customer.

We were a party of 9 celebrating a birthday. Staff were fantastic, very welcoming and accommodating. We all ordered with several different requests including a salad they didn’t serve, they offered extras for the salad also. Food came out, variety from burgers to pie and a child’s fish & chips, everyone was really pleased with the food, tasted fantastic. Only one of us managed to finish the whole plate as they are very generous with portion sizes. A few had puddings, for the birthday boy they bout his out with a lit candle and started singing happy birthday to him and then all the locals cheered at the end.