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4.5

Based on 671 opinions finded in 1 websites

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Nº 83 in 385 in Darlington

Nº 13 of 63 British in Darlington

CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT DISHES WITH..oldmustfishsteakcookedporkroastchickensaladpotatoescheesebeautifulsalmonpuddingmeatlamb
Score
OpinionsNoteTripAdvisor6714.5

comment_iconOpinions

It is always a treat to come to this pub where you will receive a warm welcome from Salvatore who is front of the house All the staff are very cherry and very helpful There is a lovely menu with specials every day The food is fantastic and there is an excellent selection of beers wines and spirits There is a dog friendly area and all dogs get a plate full of special treats The toilets are very clean and there is plenty of parking In the immediate facility, there are lots of walks and you can run around the ruins of a Roman fort.

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Tim C . 2024-10-31

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Sunday lunch for 6. Managed to get a table having phoned Sunday morning. Busy place but service was still good. 5 Lamb rump roasts and one chicken roast. Lamb was delicious and selection of vegetables was very nice.

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Meldrew . 2024-09-29

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Really lovely place to eat and or have a drink, the staff are polite and conscientious, would highly recommend. Looking forward to visiting again soon.

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Cheryl B . 2024-09-29

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This my second time here. I went with my friend Tony. We were welcomed on arrival. Our drinks ordered and brought to our table. We both had a wonderful pint of Tim Taylor’s Landlord Our order was taken and delivered quickly. Presentation of the meals was nice. I had pork medallions my friend had braised Ox cheek The food was so tasty and perfectly cooked. We were full but still managed dessert Staff were friendly and attentive Highly recommended. We will be back

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jonnyweir . 2024-08-23

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Great staff who really look after you and the food is very good. We shared the seafood platter which is really a starter but it was more than enough for us as a main meal, especially as we ordered a bowl of fries to go with it. The battered salted cod and chips is my usual go to dish here. It's astonishingly good, but tonight I fancied a change. This is a great little pub with a good atmosphere. It's dog friendly too which is such a bonus, not that we had dogs with us but others did. They also do doggie beer and treats. I've been here a number of times and it's consistently good. Its quite pricey but certainly worth it.

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gill r . 2024-08-15

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Fabulous, one of the best places I've eaten this year. Locally sourced ingredients clearly shown by radius on a blackboard by the kitchen area. Very welcoming and polite without that over attentive feel you get in some restaurants and the food was marvellous full of flavour, perfectly cooked and presented. Would definitely go again!! Welll done and thank you 😊

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Wendy T . 2024-08-02

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After seeing so many good reviews, myself and my partner decided to pop in whilst staying the weekend at The George Hotel. We had a few drinks & decided on the duck breast and fish and chips. Both dishes were absolutely outstanding. For sure the best we had eating in a long while. Unfortunately we were too full for dessert but will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu!

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Kirsty . 2024-07-27

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Me and my fiancé booked a table as they hadn't being before and what a brilliant night staff were great friendy took photos for us as well fully enjoyed our evening

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Nick Tosh . 2024-06-30

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Very friendly staff, warm and welcoming. Shown to our table immediately, allowed us to settle down and took our drinks order. Spoilt for choice on both starters and mains. All food delivered timely, and of exceptional quality. Good choice of desserts, although I chose the wrong one for my pallet, the rice pudding was sweet, cooked well just the caramelised sugar wasn’t for me.

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Christine M . 2021-11-23

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Without a doubt the best Sunday lunch we’ve had for years. Nice pub and all the staff were friendly and helpful. We had the sharing platter - great food.

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IanHaarlem1 . 2021-11-07

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We visited The Fox Hole on a Saturday night - table for 2. First impressions were good and the ambience was good. Our meals which were - starters of mussels & King prawns, mains - fish pie & turbot were quite nice but the quant6could have been better. But what let this place down was the customer service. We had 3 separate waiters/waitresses at our table throughout our meal and at no point during or after our meal were we asked if everything was ok. We were just left to get on with our meal and felt it was just like a conveyor belt job to the staff whilst they stood talking in front of the kitchen server. Maybe the time spent there chatting could be invested into the customers that come to visit not only for a good meal but for good customer service too as the 2 should go hand in hand!

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davidbI1675GK . 2021-10-26

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We were passing through and took a chance we could get a table for 3 of us to have a light lunch. We were able to park outside and we were offered a choice of 2 tables. The staff were extremely nice and very helpful. The food was beautiful - spoilt for choice. We all enjoyed our meal.

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794sandrah . 2021-10-05

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Great menu... Great food.. Modern interior .. But... I'm disappointed that the staff were so unprofessional. We could hear disagreements in the kitchen. Staff almost appear to be holding their own socials at the kitchen window. Didn't seem phased that customers could overhear them. Such a shame!

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Andrea F . 2021-09-18

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On previous occasions this has been a lovely place to visit. Tonight I was celebrating my birthday with friends. Staff were good and helpful and our drinks & starters were very good. The fish pie for the main meal was tasteless & although advertised had no smoked haddock in it - very disappointing.. this was mentioned to staff who said they would mention it to the chef. That was the last we heard about it - no apologies no message from the chef. The noise in the restaurant from other diners was so noisy the waiter couldn’t hear us & spoiled the occasion.One to miss in the future..

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L4675YVsuew . 2021-09-15

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We have been to this restaurant many many times over the last 3/4 years and always like the food, however turned up at 2.35 pm on a Saturday and asked for a table for food to be told we stopped serving at 2.30. The lady was smiling as she told me this. Sad the previous reviewer I don’t think the staff want to make money for the owner . 5 minutes over the deadline pathetic will not be using this restaurant again until their attitude changes.

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284paulf . 2021-09-12

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We drove from Durham on our wedding anniversary (23rd August) for lunch, having checked the website beforehand to make sure the restaurant was open. We didn’t book as it was a Monday lunchtime, so didn’t think it would be busy. We arrived, along with another couple of potential customers only to be told they weren’t serving food because of staff shortages. While we are very understanding of the challenges facing the hospitality industry at the moment, there is no excuse for not updating the website to avoid disappointing customers. I emailed The Fox Hole afterwards expressing my disappointment as I didn’t really want to leave a negative review here, I didn’t receive a reply, so I’m guessing they don’t care.

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hotelqueen . 2021-09-02

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We booked this restaurant based on the excellent reviews from fellow trip advisors as we were staying locally.We ate on a midweek evening & did wonder if it would be perhaps quiet & lacking in atmosphere. Luckily this wasn’t the case, as we entered the restaurant we were greeted with a full restaurant with a bustling atmosphere from fellow diners. We had the pigeon breast starter which was wonderful & the lamb rump as a main course. The lamb exceeded all our expectations & just melted in the mouth coupled with the port wine jus finishing it off just perfectly.We had attentive service from staff all evening with nothing seeing as too much trouble. I can’t recommend this restaurant highly enough & can’t wait to return.

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Sam1602 . 2021-09-02

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My mum lives nearby and finding a decent pub to have a leisurely meal has always been a challenge. Our previous favourite let us down last time and we were keen to find a replacement! And we found it.I booked a table and asked for something distanced and was given a lovely spot in the bar. The menu is short but that’s a good thing everything is fresh! From when we were seated to leaving the owner was really kind and friendly.We ate sausage and mash and fish and chips both of which were yummy and will return! Thank you so much!

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NigelG2000 . 2021-08-29

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Visited as a family and were very impressed.Very friendly efficient staff and one of the best menus we’ve seen for a while. The fish and chips were big and the fish lovely.The pork and liver dishes cooked spot on. Will definitely be going back. A good choice of meals cooked well in a modern clean environment.

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tinycok . 2021-08-29

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The service was fantastic. The food was excellent we ate there 3 times and on each occasion it was well cooked, presented and made the taste bud explode. We would highly recommend all of it. Dogs are welcome.

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Sandra A . 2021-08-16

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After a not very successful 2 day stay near Bradford, where we struggled to find somewhere decent to eat with our dogs, we revisited The Fox Hole on our journey northwards. I wish I knew the name of the lovely guy who welcomed me and showed me to a table whilst my hubby walked the dogs. I've never liked walking into pubs alone, but here I was immediately put at ease. Fresh water was brought in readiness for the dogs arrival, as well as doggy treats which were served up on a little plate!The service was excellent, and the food delicious. So nice to have a decent hot meal after having to live on takeaways for the past couple of days.The atmosphere in The Fox was lovely, We were comfortable and relaxed.I just can't praise them enough - they've definitely got it right.Thankyou, and see you next time we're going up and down the A1

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thistleswitch . 2021-08-09

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Waited an hour for our meal ( some problem with the calf’s liver). But the manager was very apologetic and didn’t charge us for that dish. You can’t ask for better than that.So we returned the following evening.Very good food. Good atmosphere. Pleasing decor.I would recommend it.

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john28London . 2021-08-02

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Visited with two primary aged children for Sunday lunch. Probably the best roast we’ve ever had, at home or out. Genuinely and completely outstanding! The meat was delicious and all the accompaniments perfect. My 10 year old had baked Alaska for the first time and his mind was blown. Friendly, efficient staff - all in all, a wonderful lunch. Wish we lived more locally!

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GtotheP . 2021-08-01

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Never failing to deliver, the food simply stunning and I would argue one of the best restaurants in the North. The service friendly and extremely professional. Salvatore and his team just outstanding

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Voyage305499 . 2021-08-01

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Visited for Sunday Lunch with friends. The pub itself was lovely the staff are friendly however, they didn't have our booking in the diary even though our booking had been confirmed the morning of our visit.They were able to accommodate us as a table of 6 had just become free. I dont know if we had just caught them on a bad day but the seemed very disorganised we had to ask for water and wine a few times before they appeared on the table.That said the food was excellent I had Prawn Cocktail to start followed by the Chicken, the veg was delightful especially the turnip.All in all a very good meal just the service left a bit to be desired. I would recommend a visit and we will go back.

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sharon17Teesside . 2021-07-26

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A little village and a pretty little pub restaurant, with somebody who really understands food, working the kitchen, The cheese soufflé starters were great and the sizeable sea bream fillet was more a chunk than a fillet and perfectly cooked! I always try to have what I won't make at home, when eating out and the soufflé and the pineapple panna cotta and champagne sorbet dessert, perfectly fit the bill. it wasn't cheap, but with a nice bottle of wine and several other drinks, it was worth every penny. The Fox Hole is still here, where so many others have folded through the pandemic and the standard of their serving staff and cooking are excellent! We should support them and their high standards make doing that very easy.

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celticlegendltd . 2021-07-24

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Went to the pub/restaurant during covid days to find it to be very covid aware-excellent!!We were still being careful covid wise as we have a daughter still shielding. We explained this to the staff who went out of their way to find us a very safe table outside. Thankyou very muchThe staff were all very helpful and very professional and clearly work well as a faultless teamThe food was all of the highest quality, hot and very tasty.All in all a very good experience and we would return in a flash

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Eurotraveller777 . 2021-07-22

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We visited the Fox Hole without booking and were lucky to get a table on a sunday.The restaurant is offering a modern decor but keeping amazing original features.The food itself was really good - Great meat nice veg selection and good pub dessert.if you are around I definetly recommand to stop by.

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Aurore_French . 2021-07-13

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Absolutely delicious Sunday lunch sharing platter… all three meats perfectly cooked, loads of fabulous vegetables, and a huge pot of gravy. Puddings also excellent. Nice surroundings and convenient place to stopSlightly marred by very slow service between courses, but we’d come back again, for sure.

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gillypost . 2021-07-11

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Popped in to the Fox Hole on the 7th July for a quick drink & dinner only to find two farmers sat at the bar. After waiting 10-15 minutes for service which did not arrive we left, maybe it was for the best!!!

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jeffgarry . 2021-07-11

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I've been going weekly to enjoy great food.Nice surrounds and pretty good serviceIf I had a niggle it would be speed of service. I really fancied a pudding and couldn't get the waiter's attention..Anyway, there's a fab ice cream factory a 5 min drive away.

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Martin L . 2021-06-26

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Driven past a few times and looked nice so we went for dinner on Saturday night around 8pm. Greeted with very dirty bar area and not shown to our reserved seat or given menus, the barman pointed to our table and told us to go sit down. About 5 minutes later the waiter showed up with lunch menus rather than dinner menus, a genuine mistake of course and quickly rectified.We noticed there were no track and trace QR codes or posters anywhere and our details weren’t taken either. Staff were wearing masks under their noses. Food took close to 50 minutes to arrive. I ordered the pork tenderloin which was nicely cooked and tender but was only served with 3 potatoes and covered over with lots of vegetables. Boyfriend enjoyed his jerk chicken.However during the course of the meal there were 3 flies constantly buzzing around our table which was off putting. We were also seated in what I presume was the bar area as my direct view was an ever increasing collection of dirty glasses which wasn’t the most pleasing.When out plates were cleared, we weren’t asked if we would like desserts or coffee, so we swiftly got the bill and left. Probably would not return which is unfortunate as we were genuinely excited to try this place out

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Holmil21 . 2021-06-19

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Been for Sunday lunch today and table wasn’t even cleaned from the previous people crumbs/bits of food and salt all over the table and this is stated on they web site Mask requiredStaff required to disinfect surfaces between visitswhat a laugh asked the waitress to clean the table she just sweep the crumbs and bits onto the floor and really all of the table should of been disinfected and re set When the waitress came with the drinks split the drinks over daughter handbag and on the table not even a apology .Food was very disappointed £3 pounds for a small bowl of mash potatoes which was packet mix Sugar in the swede and I am a diabetic and should be told if any added sugars in food The place looks clean but if you look closely it’s very dirty and the toilets are not that well kept. Going into the toilets the door has at least a weeks worth of hand marks not very good for COVID-19 For the prices they charge same as some 5 star restaurants near by and their food is just a poor pub grub not rated at allwouldn’t recommend it to anyone .

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maud9999 . 2021-06-13

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Really nice outdoor seating area, dog friendly. Great service, good quality beers and lagers, food very tasty & beautifully presented, couldn't fault it.

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chunkboozy . 2021-06-10

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Absolutely fantastic meal. Visited today for the first time and will definitely return. Excellent service, food that was exceptional and such a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can completely understand why it’s so popular.

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MrMikeDurham . 2021-05-20

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Great sharing sea food platter. Clean restaurant, good selection of drinks all at a fair price. Staff friendly and accommodating

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321KSG . 2020-11-01

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Had a meal Saturday venison pie, one of the best things I have had. Always food is spot on a shame it was so quiet normally busy on a Saturday afternoon. Love the place Thank you

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284paulf . 2020-10-18

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I have been meaning to visit here since it changed hands. Tonight we were delighted with the friendly staff, service and lovely food and great atmosphere. My friend from Newcastle was greatly impressed too.

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Howroypot . 2020-10-16

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Had a lovely lunch here in a great atmosphere. The staff and service was excellent especially Salvadore whose attention to detail was second to none. Will definitely be back. Well done.

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JonnyR424 . 2020-10-11

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We were staying nearby and enjoyed a fabulous meal at the Fox Hole last night. In these strange times is was great to have some normality and enjoy a lovely meal out in lovely surroundings with a good atmosphere whilst at the same time having all the necessary precautions and social distancing measures in place to keep everyone safe. My husband and I only had one course each (no room left for a pudding unfortunately) and it was all absolutely delicious. I decided to have the seafood sharing platter for my main course (meant for two as a starter I think) and I’m so glad I did. Lots of choice of different seafood, all cooked and/ or cured really well. Particular favourite was the salmon gravadlax which I could have had on its own and been happy with. Chris had the fillet steak which was cooked perfectly accompanied with some tasty chips (he didn’t offer me any so will have to take his word for it) and peppercorn sauce. Overall it’s a lovely place serving lovely food with a comfy and cosy atmosphere and great service. Would definitely recommend.

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Duckie1978 . 2020-10-08

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A must - food is outstanding and the staff are lovely. This place has a lovely atmosphere, even with all the restrictions in place. We had a Sunday roast with all the trimmings and there was plenty. I had the fish of the day and cod fritters and they were lush. No wonder it’s so popular - already looking forward to the next visit.

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C1885PFpaulas . 2020-10-05

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Had an excellent Sunday lunch, staff very good. Pleased to see NHS track and trace QR posters and all staff wearing masks. Good to be asked to wear masks on entering and going to and from the table. Could see staff sanitising regularly. Food excellent (as always) very good experience. Would offer one note (stupid) customers came in not wearing masks, and went straight to bar to ask about their table, they were not asked to put on masks - bar staff could/should have been more assertive at this point, for the sake of other customers.

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ruralnorth . 2020-10-04

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Ate at fox hole Friday 25/9/20 and couldn't find fault. Staff were friendly and attentive, meal was excellent and good value for money and the covid 19 precautions were obvious and exactly as we had hoped.We felt a bit anxious about eating out but it was my wife's birthday so took the plunge. I've read criticism on here about Covid measures at the fox hole but I feel like those people must have attended a different restaurant entirely. We felt really safe, the atmosphere was still pretty good and still (relatively) busy. All round really pleased thank you

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G349VWgregm . 2020-09-28

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Our mid week early dinner en route home couldn’t have been better. Quick and attentive service. Clean and organised. Great menu - you can’t beat steak, chips and a peppercorn sauce. My ideal. Well done The Fox Hole - we will be back!

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KTommo74 . 2020-09-27

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Always a fan of this place. Quality food, very pleasant surroundings. Frequent visitor and will continue to be. Sunday roasts are also top

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Foodylover57 . 2020-09-27

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Visited on Friday evening for my mums birthday, the staff were lovely and all wearing masks, hand sanitiser, track and trace and spaced out tables all in place. Food was really good, we had sharing platters to start and a chateaubriand, chicken and belly pork for mains and it was all great quality food. Would definitely recommend.

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599elliem . 2020-09-27

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Food was delicious and we didn’t wait long to be seated or for the food to arrive. The staff were very attentive and friendly. Everywhere was lovely and clean and the staff were very on the ball reminding people to wear face masks when moving around the room etc. I will definitely be returning!

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sn2505 . 2020-09-26

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What an amazing place, food was fantastic and the service first class. Staff were very attentive an all COVID secure. Can’t wait to visit again!

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michaelgG1533BY . 2020-09-26

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We’d heard good things so decided to visit this evening to try an evening meal. The staff and ambience was great, but the food was a real down sadly. We ordered the Chateaubriand and after waiting longer than usual the food arrived and looked great. But the steak had a really strange stale water like taste, almost like chemical. Both myself and my partner noticed it after a few mouthfuls. We worried it maybe had fell into dishwater, been dropped and wiped down with a damp cloth perhaps - but decided to Google what it might be. And reading some chef forums it sounds like the steak maybe wasn’t seared properly, we’re back home now crossing our fingers we’re gonna be ill :(

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timj992 . 2020-09-26

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Amazing food, amazing atmosphere, amazing service.... I can’t wait to visit again, the cheese soufflé was unreal. Covid restrictions were completely adhered to and myself and my partner felt very safe at all times. See you again soon.

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RobboCLR59 . 2020-09-25

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I don’t often leave reviews but felt like I had to. What a great experience we had at The Foxhole. We’ve been to a few restaurants since the coronavirus guidelines were put into place and they were a little awkward and staff seemed uncertain what to do for the best. Not at The Foxhole. The staff were amazing and we felt safe and relaxed. Everything seemed to be well planned and efficient. The food was out of this world. I had the roast chicken breast. Perfectly cooked and presented and tasty, tender and juicy. Perfectly complimented with the mushroom sauce and vegetables. My friend had the fillet steak and she said it was the best she’d ever had! Can’t recommend this place more. We’ll be back on a regular basis.

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Flyer52128032314 . 2020-09-25

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Visited for lunch a couple of weeks ago.Despite there being a VIP event taking place we enjoyed a superb lunch time experience.The drinks were very reasonable for such a classy establishment complimented by food of the highest standard.We finished of with refreshments and deserts in the lovely garden.It is obvious that the place is very well managed as there seemed to be things going on in every part of the hotel but the service was very smooth and unhindered by other events.I would imagine that The Fox Hole would be an ideal venue for private or corporate parties.All in all a truly terrific place to relax and enjoy all that this brilliant atmospheric establishment has to offer.Needless to say we shall be returning with eager anticipation.

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David W . 2020-09-24

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Table was not cleaned when sat down- sanatizer on table - we were asked for contact details but no disposable menus and board was dirtyNo staff had masks or screens on and stood very close - toilet had no guidelines for corvid - ladies Toilet very small with 2 cubicles and no provisions for only one in toilet area Due to social distancing. People standing at bar - leaning over bar counter. Food was good, staff pleasant, but manager/owners need to protect staff /customers and follow guidelines Open garden for people who feel safer outside

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cairns2 . 2020-09-24

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This place is a massive Covid risk and is flouting the guidelines with next to no social distancing, mask wearing and recording of contact details. They are allowing anti-social behaviour from pub goers late in the evening impacting the local village community and putting their health at risk. It is clear that if the owners do not get a grip on this they are heading for closure and deservedly so.

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polligull . 2020-09-20

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We were asked for our contact details and that was the only COVID precaution. No hand sanitiser, staff did not wear masks or visors and stood very close. Toilets had no provisions at all. Staff didn't know what food was available and had to order twice. When revised order came, items were missing. Brought this up with the man behind the bar, didn't hear anything again. Had finished meals by the time the sides came.Decent enough food and freindly staff but no one seemed to have had any training. Nice decor but very poorly managed.

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325harrya . 2020-09-16

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Had dinner there and although food is good there is no precautions to minimise Covid risk to staff or customers.Staff not wearing masks.Plenty of sanitizer but staff did not use it.Dirty menu boards are handed to many tables without cleaning.Foxhole you will need to up your game before we come back.

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X7919QPdebbiem . 2020-09-16

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Nice place with good food and friendly staff. But staff not wearing masks, few customers wearing masks, little social distancing, bar service. Will not be back.

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JezzaVeg1 . 2020-09-14

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We found this restaurant looking for someone decent and dog-friendly for lunch on our way from the Isle of Ely to Northumberland, i.e. not too far from the A1. It was so good we visited again on our return journey.We were made to feel very welcome and Freya (Labrador) was given a biscuit and bowl of water and made a fuss of. The dog-friendly area is small, so would recommend booking.Menu currently restricted due to COVID, but check out the specials board. Portions well presented and generous. Deserts looked tempting but alas too full (both times). Prices reasonable for quality of cooking,

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fredv3b . 2020-09-12

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We have eaten in the Foxhole before and were excited to be returning for a 40th birthday unfortunately the meal did not live up to our expectations. On arrival we were ignored and a table was pointed out to us, because the waitress was too busy chatting. We eventually ordered some drinks and complained after waiting 20mins as they still hadn’t arrived. We duly ordered our meals but unfortunately there was no child’s tomato soup left so an alternative choice was made. When the food arrived it was luke warm at best, we ordered chateaubriand medium to well and my brother and sister in law ordered the same but medium. They got rare and we got medium. Throughout the evening we had to wave to catch attention from the waitress for more drinks, who then asked us, ‘what do youse want?’ Such a shame but we won’t be returning anytime soon.

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philipk802 . 2020-09-10

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Whilst staying in the area we decided to book the Fox Hole for a late lunch the day we arrived, as this place was local to where we were staying we expected to return several times during our stay. This has to be the most lax place when it comes to Covid restrictions/precautions. On arrival people just piled in the door, zero social distancing, staff weren't wearing masks and no temperatures taken (this has happened everywhere we've been lately) yes we saw a couple of bottles of hand sanitiser but and what!? no one way system nothing. This put me off from the start. So place was extremely busy, there did seem to be plenty of staff but service was very slow. When I went to the bar to order ( again everywhere else has been table service!) I ordered the cod cheeks with a side of fries, I was told this was only a very small portion as it was a starter and would I like to have the meal as a main course - yes please, we also ordered a chicken Caesar salad and a portion of chips as a main. When the meals arrived, mine being the cod cheeks this was only the starter portion with 3 small pieces not as a main as I'd requested, salad arrived and no sign of the fries/chips. These had clearly been forgotten after having to ask for them twice they arrived after we'd finished our meals. I've no idea if I had been charged for a 'main' instead of the starter I received as when paying the bill my husband didn't ask for a receipt. I have a feeling that was the case though. We had high hopes for this place but left disappointed and didn't visit again.

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clarendolce . 2020-09-07

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Disappointing visit compared to previous occasions. Soup warm, not hot. Potatoes tasted as if they had been lying around in a carvery. Extra vegetables ordered but not delivered. Drinks order incomplete. Restaurant has been faultless in the past. Hope this isn’t a trend.

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LightPacker610014 . 2020-09-06

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This place is brilliant with a relaxing atmosphere and everyone very friendly and you are made to feel very welcome. I have been three times in the last two months and every time has been brilliant. Thank you.

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Abracadaba . 2020-08-19

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.....a perfectly nice meal was ruined by really shoddy service. It was a busy night because of Eat Out to Help Out and we arrived early when it wasn’t full but waited over an hour for our main course. Plenty of serving staff; one downright surly and a couple of others much more polite and smiley but they just didn’t seem to care that we were just sitting there clearly needing service whilst they were chatting to each other and looking everywhere but at the customers. If we asked the surly waitress for anything she either; didn’t bother to bring what we requested, or looked like we were totally inconveniencing her. At no point did anyone voluntarily come over to ask if we needed anything or if the meal was ok. We are usually really easy to please and this the first time I’ve ever written a poor review but if I was the owner I’d be really disappointed that what should have been a 4 star plus review was let down badly by its staff. It ruined the experience.

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Millynbilly . 2020-08-11

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Absolutely delicious: we ate here with our three daughters and were very impressed with the food. Eldest and I shared chateaubriand and it was the nicest beef I think I’ve ever had: cooked and seasoned perfectly. Littlest had the children’s menu, and it was lovely- good size portions. Middle child had the seafood platter, as she doesn’t eat meat: again it was absolutely lovely, perfectly cooked and looked beautiful. The bill was a bargain as well, because of eat out to help out, but I would have had no issue paying full price: it’s not the cheapest place around but it is absolutely worth it as the food is so lovely. Great, friendly staff as well

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834catherinem . 2020-08-10

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Outstanding sunday lunch platter and well worth the price,will be back again, highly recommended, best sunday lunch we've found in our area

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U1995PBjonathans . 2020-08-09

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We stopped at the Fox Hole for lunch while traveling back to Scotland. The staff were very pleasant, we ordered the posh fish fingers and the pulled chicken with sides of fries and chips. The chips were the biggest I've ever had. The meal was lovely and one of the best meals of our holiday.

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Gillian S . 2020-08-02

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Went with husband for lunch to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary and was our first time eating out after lockdown. Having never been before and choosing from pictures, sample menu and some facebook comments I am so glad we decided on going to The Fox Hole. We had the best meal out for quite a while and I’m ignoring the time spent in lockdown! We both started with the pork croquettes from the specials board and both thought they were delicious. Husband had chicken for mains and I had the seafood platter with a side portion of fries - although it came with a variety of chunky breads (which I’d forgotten about when I ordered the fries). Dessert was a strawberry and white chocolate sundae for husband which he loved and I had a delicious white chocolate namelaka which I’d never had before but oh goodness! So lovely. We finished off with tea and a coffee. The staff were lovely and friendly and we will definitely return. Can highly recommend this wonderful pub

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Adele J . 2020-07-29

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We waited over an hour for the food to arrive, when it came we wernt very impressed. Id say the food was wetherspoons standard at almost double the price. We did recieve an apology and free deserts which was ok, but overall very disappointing we wont go back

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sarahbV1887JC . 2020-07-27

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A beautiful pint and pub lunch at the end of a lovely walk. Could not have been more helpful - had 2 dogs and a baby in our party. A lovely afternoon 🌞

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cindysI548QK . 2020-07-25

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Randomly stopped here whilst out and about one Sunday for lunch. Very accommodating. In fact it seemed to be a bit empty at first but thought ourselves lucky to have got a table as soon after 1.30 it started to fill up with locals. Obviously very popular. Roast is a sharing platter, a new one on me, but it is obviously a very good idea. A platter is adorned with three different types of meat, a portion for each diner. You can then mix and match. Huge batter puddings too. I chose the vegetarian option of nut roast. I'm not veggie but do like a change now and then. It was very flavoursome although contained a large amount of chickpeas and not so many nuts, but tasty nonetheless. Lovely veggies (tenderstem broccoli, green beans, red cabbage, rooty mash and proper roast potatoes. Very enjoyable house red.We were then very piggy and had desserts - hedgerow panacotta and caramel brownie sundae. We waddled home!

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janicew304 . 2020-03-20

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I have called in a number of times after fishing or just for lunch and dinner and love The Fox Hole.Quality food and a nice atmosphere with great beers.Their Mezzes use local ingredients are are lovely. Give it a try I know you wont be disappointed

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StuartWflyfisher . 2020-03-17

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Foxhole has super vibe in relaxed atmosphere with good choice of background music. Real ale which was a bonus. Pork croquettes n black pudding scotch egg to start, superb. Linguine n duck as mains again top class.Only disappointment we ate so much we could sample the sweets, we'll be back!

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PippiCoDurham . 2020-03-03

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The Fox hole pub in Pierce bridge has great food and is a lovely building full of charm and character. Plus a garden for summer

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marygedwards . 2020-02-11

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Having seen some good reviews thought we would try here for lunch, the host was very welcoming and we were quickly given a choice of table, first glance looks smart but once seated noticed it could have been cleaner, seats on were covered with crumbs and the plank style tables look great but not when you are about to eat and find food debris between them. The lunch menu is very limited and the a la carte weighted towards fish, the waitress seemed confused as to whether it was bass or bream that was the special. In the end we went for the burger and the sausages, burger was ordinary and the chips were of the frozen skinny variety, burger could have done with some sort of relish to moisten it. The sausage dish was ok the mash and veg were lovely but the sausages were burnt and very hard, perhaps due to the 40 minutes from order to delivery at the table. All in a disappointing meal as I always feel let down if I could have done better myself at home.

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Fionamac2005 . 2020-01-27

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had been told by locals of this restuarant, and it out performed my expectations! on arrival, met by superb staff, very attentive but not intrusive. i ordered the partridge risotto with partridge bon bon which was faultless, full of flavour, and well presented. i settled for the cod and chips which was a huge portion with crispy chips, minted mushy peas and tartare sauce with a rocket and endive salad. probably one if not the best ive tasted in the british isles, yes its that good!

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ardenttraveller1964 . 2020-01-24

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Good place to eat nice ambience, staff helpful and friendly. Has a nice garden area although traffic can be noisy at times

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alanhF3327PR . 2020-01-13

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A fantastic cosy pub, great ambiance, friendly staff, the food was first class. Especially cheese soufflé, the whole part enjoyed there meals, will definitely be going back soon.. wish it was my local..

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denisedr41 . 2020-01-12

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Amazing food, service and atmosphere (love the cosy fire), can’t wait to come back. Highly recommended.

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RobboCLR59 . 2020-01-11

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Booked for lunch on Sunday 5th Jan. We had two superb starters, the Ham hock terrine, chutney and pickles were fantastic. The soup was smooth creamy and full of taste. We shared a Sunday roast meat platter of perfectly pink tender Beef, moist Pork with perfect crackling, and roast chicken with super tasty crispy skin. The platter comes with two huge homemade yorkshire puddings. The selection of vegetables were also very good, especially the red cabbage and roast potatoes. This was an unusual way of serving sunday lunch, but one that works well, as you get to taste 3 fantastic locally sourced meats. The pub/restaurant is lovely and welcoming inside, and the staff are all friendly and explain the menu and options. Will definitely be going back.

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Brownie73 . 2020-01-06

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We came here for a small family get together. Been a few times before and cannot fault the food or service. Warm welcome as always from the team! Thank you

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hotmusta . 2020-01-05

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We were travelling from Scotland back down towards home (via the Yorkshire Dales) and decided to stop for a late lunch - it was great. Really nice service, lovely decor and atmosphere, and really delicious food. I had the Cesar salad (can’t fault it) and he had a burger. A really nice little find for us. Not sure when we’ll next be in this part of the country but we’ll be sure to return to the Fox Hole.

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Ronnieboris . 2020-01-02

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Been here so many time alway had expectation service. So was really looking forward to Christmas lunch. Place was in a mess uncleared tables and customers waiting to have plates taken away. Chef was out helping to serve food. However my biggest bug bare was the shouting by bar man to waiting staff asking if table were ready and chef also complaining that no one was picking food up for service area. Staff need to be more aware that customer can hear everything even over the load music. Food was ok plentiful however no attention to detail the one thing that made the place special.

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venter026 . 2019-12-26

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First time here for Christmas dinner as we are frequent customers I can’t complain about meal or service our order was checked before service and we were served within 10 mins with drinks and

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awacomputers1 . 2019-12-26

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Have been regulars at the Fox Hole on Christmas Day since it opened and occasional visitors during the year and have never been disappointed, in fact it has always been outstanding but we haven’t been since it changed hands until today for Christmas Day lunch again. It wasn’t great. Chaotic and disorganised would sum it up. Food wasn’t awful but neither was it great. Service was dreadful but what was really disappointing was that we were asked to leave our table when we hadn’t fully finished. We were informed that we were told when booking we had a time limit on the table but we were not and I would not have booked if I’d known. I will not be going back and I will no longer recommend the Fox Hole. Still waiting for our mince pies by the way.

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Lobster872 . 2019-12-25

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This used to be one of our “go to” dining destinations. This was our first and likely last visit under the new management. The whole atmosphere and offer has changed. What was previously classy and stylish is now reduced to a rural Wetherspoon’s.

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PadGDarlo . 2019-12-20

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Came with a couple of work colleagues for a night food was amazing recommend the souffle starter and fillet steak. Staff very friendly and attentive and great selection of drinks will definitely be back

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hamish3464 . 2019-12-20

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Had a nice Sunday lunch and a couple of good snack items with drinks. Pleasant place to spend an hour

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hy0ung . 2019-12-19

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Went for meal with family and extremely disappointed! Food was awful as was atmosphere. Has really gone downhill since last time we ate here a few months ago, and will definitely not be returning.

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Geordie444 . 2019-12-10

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This time of year shows this restaurant off to it's best. Nice fire to warm you in the bar, great winter warming dishes, good atmosphere of a busy drinking trade matched by diners of all professions. A real casual yet accurate service.

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Warby_bill . 2019-12-08

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We visited one evening for dinner with family and we all enjoyed our meals. The battered fish was delicious. Drinks were reasonably priced and the staff were attentive.

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Caroll B . 2019-12-05

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I was taken to the Fox hole for a late Birthday lunch. I'd been previously. Once for lunch and once for Drinks.

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Dennis H . 2019-11-18

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We were delighted with the excellent service and delicious meals served to us in the bar area which is also dog-friendly.

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548bradb . 2019-11-06

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if your passing through Piercebridge you should stop and eat at the Fox Hole. Its a beautiful quaint gastro bar & restaurant with fabulous food and a very nice patio and garden area outside. Well worth a visit.

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Paul C . 2019-10-23

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Nice refurbishment but felt ‘cold’ not temperature, just uninviting. Might have been different at the other end (we were in the end with the bifold doors), not much in the way of soft furnishings.

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andywallaceuk . 2019-10-20

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Went for Sunday lunch the quality of the meats served are superb, they serve beef, chicken, pork on a platter with fantastic homemade yorkshire puds, rather large portion of delicious meat served, so you need a good appetite ! also great deserts all homemade,

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RitaW2 . 2019-09-29

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Wow - what a venue! Beautiful food and great service! 10/10 keep it up.

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Foodylover57 . 2019-09-28

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Visited here for a meal and drinks. Food looked appealing enough however the service was very slow. Later that night I was taken very ill. Not sure if it was the food which looked and tasted fine or the fact that when I ordered a pint only half was pulled and then the barrel need changing. This was done and my pint was topped up. After speaking to someone I know who worked in a pub I was told that the last pint and the first couple from a new barrel should not be served to a customer. Would not return to this place again and i would highly recommend it is avoided if this is the case

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bigal0076 . 2019-09-22

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Called in late on a Mon night, was given a warm welcome, staff brilliant, food even better, well worth a visit!

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Kevin R . 2019-09-13

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We ate on a Friday night and found The Fox Hole to be delightful. Friendly staff, speedy service, great atmosphere. Our orders were taken quickly and the food arrived in good time despite the restaurant being busy. We weren’t rushed at any point and had an excellent evening. The food was excellent, my steak was genuinely one of the best I have ever had. Great value for money, we’ll certainly be back.

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RikkieAndChrissie . 2019-09-13

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We had a lovely meal with friends here recently. Attentive and friendly staff and a good selection of meal choices. The lamb burger on the specials deserves a mention (sorry no picture as was demolished speedily). Tender steaks and excellent fish platter too. Leave space for desserts, no disappointment there either.

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Sandra D . 2019-09-06

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