The Noel at Whitwell in Rutland

What a lovely little pub and restaurant. recently taken over i believe and is now ran by mum and daughter. on arrival we received a warm welcome. We enquired about GF options, and were very pleased with the choice available, due to the fact the food is prepared fresh, by the chef!! our lunch options were the Burger, and a roast beef lunch, both meals were fantastic, along with a decent couple of pints of Guinness. lovely atmosphere very welcoming, lovely people. i will be back. keep up the good work guys Phil

There yesterday 13/12/24 after walking part of Rutland Water. Very friendly hosts, offering some excellent beers and the Pizza and chips were marvellous! Definitely be there again after walks. RW Farnsfield.

Very friendly pub in Whitwell. Had a wonderful pizza and very dog friendly. If you’re nearby pay a visit and enjoy a well priced lunch.

Went for Sunday lunch having been previously put off by owners. Had the beef Sunday lunch and I had the chicken. Both really tasty , good value, served by an extremely bubbly landlady. Don't be put off by previous custodians, the new staff give it a great new feel. Booked again for next week!!

We dropped in for Sunday Lunch The staff were very casual But very welcoming and kind. We had lunch which was very nice. A very nice pub we’ve been meaning to pop in for a while but didn’t realise they had such a big car park.

The food was AMAZING…We order pizza and ciabatta and it was quality and served super quickly! Such a nice environment to have a few glasses of wine and some really good food

It was clean & had a comfortable bed but, curtains were hanging on with string which made it difficult to open/close. It did have tea/coffee making facilities but no biscuits. No drinking glasses for water. We went down for breakfast and the chef had a day off & there was one poor guy in his own serving breakfast so after reading a pretty good breakfast menu the only thing we could have was an English breakfast or toast, but I’m not sure if it was freshly cooked, the bacon was very crisp! On the whole it was a pleasant stay but just needs a bit more!!!

We stayed at The Noel for three nights with breakfast inc and chose to dine two evenings, the whole experience was superb. We visited with an open mind after reading various reviews but now realise they are rectifying things that went on in the past which were out of their control & are now successfully turning things around. We were greeted by the loviest of staff who continually went out of their way to be helpful. I stayed with my two adult daughters & a baby, not the easiest guests however nothing at all was too much trouble. The food was superb & sorry chef, we did mix his menu around to which he was accommodating and everything served perfectly. All in all a very relaxed, cosy environment, we will definitely return.

We visited for dinner the first weekend after the new people took over the pub and were blown away with how kind and polite everyone was. The food was amazing, served quickly, and the waiting staff were on point. The atmosphere felt like a proper country pub. Warming and relaxing. It wasn’t the cheapest place but for a date night, it was exactly what we wanted.

This was our first time visiting and we were pleasantly surprised by the hospitality and the delicious food served. We had 2 chicken burgers, a vegetarian burger and nachos and for starters we chose squid and calamari. The food was homemade, delicious and well presented. The host made us feel very welcomed especially that we arrived quite late in the afternoon for lunch. It was a lovely experience. Next time we will try the al fresco pizzas.

Had Sunday lunch . I can honestly say was one of the best roasts . The chef is excellent . And the staff was amazing there was a big party in and the staff was very professional and efficient where nothing was to much trouble.

We stayed at the noel as a family if 5 in the family room over night as were visiting family in the area. The owner Karen couldn't have done more to.make us feel welcome and her staff were lovely. We had an evening meal which was delicious and reasonably priced and the cooked breakfast was great after a lovely, peaceful and comfortable nights sleep. Would love to stay again when back in the area. Photos dont do it justice... very stylishly decorated and also dog friendly which is lovely

We had a lovely experience at The Noel, Karen the owner couldn’t do enough for us, she organised transport from our hotel, even though flooding in the local area had meant she was short staffed. The food was excellent, high quality British cuisine. We’ll definitely be returning to The Noel!

Avoid!!!! not only were we welcomed by the owner in her nightwear she also told us she was poorly and all her staff had covid. the service as dreadful, food was like something out of a garage with a spa attached to it. in fact the sandwiches might have tasted better. the staff had no idea how to look after customers and basic food knowledge was a no go. very disappointed as I wanted to have a nice lunch with my family but it made it very frustrating. It's been about 10 years since I had been and hoped that under new ownership it would be better than it was before but it clearly hasn't made any difference.

As a group of walkers we had booked for lunch following our walk. The owner opened at 10am to take our orders and couldn’t have been more welcoming, even though numbers in our group were much lower than expected. There was a good lunchtime menu with plenty of choice. We did wait quite some time for food, but that was fine and we were happy enough to chat. The food was good and everyone was satisfied. There seemed to be no staff (we were the only customers) and the owner appeared to be doing most things herself. She was trying really hard to ensure we had a positive experience. All this business needs is more customers to ensure it’s financial viability. With so many pubs closing it would be a shame to see another loss. So be a bit more forgiving and give this fledgling business a chance.

Good Sunday lunch visit wake up locals you are missing out not welcoming this new venture!! Great welcome good service food exceptional!

Arrived at 5 pm place was deserted. Kept waiting in ‘reception’ for ages. Finally somebody came to book us in. Taken to the room (6) and we dumped our bags and rushed out to go the a family gathering. We explained we would be back late. Returned after 11 again the place in complete darkness, no outside lighting, used my phone to navigate the steep carpark and steps to the door where two members of staff were smoking. Went to the room which was poorly lit. In the morning light we could see how terrible the room actually was. Nasty curtains that were past their best open to give a ‘view’ of the carpark. Very stained carpet. Bed sheets and duvet cover creased and obviously not ironed. Bathroom, very basic with shower over bath, had to fiddle with the hot and cold taps to get the temperature right before using the shower . Shower curtain far too long so it covers half the floor of the bath! The two half used bottles of Radox shower gel could have been the ‘luxury bath items’ or a previous guests leftovers? Shelf holding the towels broken. Back onto the nasty stained carpet. Got dressed quickly ! Found a phone charger already plugged into the socket…another leftover from the previous guest? Turned down the duvet to air the bed only to see some stains ( looked like old blood) on the inside which would have been next to my face! Feels like the room was still being used by somebody. I hope the sheets were actually clean. Not a pleasant thought. Breakfast served by the chef was pleasant but overall it’s not a place I would want to return to. Yes they had tea making equipment, a hairdryer and tv but the bits that touch your body need to be clean, fresh and not like they’ve already been slept in. They need to up their game for £120.

Firstly, the pictures on trip advisor bear no resemblance to the actual place, which is now very modern, having had all the character stripped out. The public rooms are certainly bright and clean but more like a Chinese restaurant than a lovely country pub. Stayed here for one night. Under new management but can’t see it staying open for long if this is how they are going to run it. Bedroom (large cupboard really with tiny window too high off the ground to see out of) was clean, as was the bathroom but the bed linen was badly creased. We hope it hadn’t been slept in previously!! We were never given a key to our room. Dinner was OK. Main course was quite tasty but after waiting 20 minutes without seeing anyone we had to go and interrupt the staff who were playing video games in the bar to request a dessert. Waiter came when we had finished and asked if we wanted a dessert, oblivious to the fact the empty dessert dishes were in front of him! Breakfast was served by a man in dirty shorts and T shirt who said he was off to do some decorating. There were no cereals, no juices etc. we were brought a full English which had obviously been keeping warm for some time, and toast. We had to ask for juice and marmalade. Tea was served in two cups with a tea bag in each. We pointed out the usually at breakfast you expect a whole pot, which surprised them. When we paid our bill for the meal they did deduct the cost of the beer and spritzer we had the previous evening and the dessert but as we had paid almost £120 for the room and breakfast we felt this was the least they could do. We were told the new owner was actually arriving that day to take over. She has a real uphill battle to get this place to anywhere near acceptable. We wish her luck but we certainly would never stay there again.

Had a lovely Sunday lunch, staff were friendly and service was very good. I would definitely recommend and we will be going back.

We booked here for my birthday meal as this was previously an excellent place to eat. Since our last visit it has been refurbished and put under new management. Here’s how our visit went.. First of all we were greeted by someone in socks, and waiting for them to put their shoes on should of been enough for us to walk out, however we decided to see if the food could outweigh the worst service we’ve ever received in a restaurant. Unfortunately it didn’t, one meal out of 5 was at an average level, the rest was very poor. All of this on top of dreadful service I’m sure the man serving us was drunk.. he even sat down at our our table to take our order! No one came to check if our food was ok, take our plates, offer dessert, more drinks, etc. The bill was £100.00, and after my complaint he offered to discount the bill by £20.00 he then asked for £50.00 I’m no mathematician but I’m sure it didn’t add up 🤣 one waiter then asked the table next to us if they were ready to order and they had already eaten 🤣 all very laughable really but considering the high standards of previous owners very disappointing.

Went in to check out today, was surprised how nice it was. Staff are very friendly. The decorations was great

When we visited The Noel had just reopened under new owners and after a refurbishment. It looks very smart and the food was very good. My wife had a warm chicken and bacon salad in a taco bowl which was really nice. I had the pie of the day (steak and musroom) with red cabbage and champ mash and gravy and it was great. Prices were reasonable. The only negative was that they were very chaotic with their menus giving out lunchtime ones at first, then one and a half evening menus, and then not having menus/prices at the till when it came to settling up. A bit more organisation in that area would make it perfect. With the environment they have created and the quality of the food we enjoyed the new owners deserve to make a sucess of it.

Awesome lunch with the most attentive service we’ve had in a long time. We understand the current team are on Site temporarily, with that being said hats off to them. Great experience all round! We will Be back!

We had an absolutely fabulous meal. The roast beef was incredible and the cauliflower cheese was out of this world. The service was brilliant and the surroundings were conducive to a lovely couple of hours.

Excellent service & food. All 4 of us had the Hake & each one was superb, the chef can really cook fish. Friendly staff & good beer, reasonable prices - what more do you need. Will return next time over in Rutland

Burger night at the Noel last night was amazing, great choice lots of sides and extras at proper prices (not ripped off) Beer is always good and the service was spot on Thanks again to Ian and Samuel

This pub excels in customer service and the food is superb . Stayed for 2 nights room very clean and enjoyed breakfasts and evening meals

My husband and I stopped here for lunch after a walk around Rutland Reservoir. I had a burger and it was awful! Rubbery and tasteless. It came with coleslaw (at least that’s what they called it). Tasted and looked disgusting! My husband had a chicken baguette which was so saturated with bbq sauce that it was practically inedible! The only reason I gave it a 2 rating is because the chips were actually not bad. Service was extremely slow considering not a complicated order, and we were the only ones there until another couple and a family of 4 arrived after we had ordered. The manager seemed totally disinterested in our feedback. Not a customer focused guy. The decor could use a refresh as well. Some ugly furniture. I think this would be a great candidate for one of those do over TV shows. They really need to buck up.

Stayed at the hotel and ate in the restaurant. The important question first: would I stay there again, and the answer is certainly yes. Bear in mind that this is formerly an old pub and some of the rooms have a quirkiness to go with it. Nevertheless, they are comfortable with everything you would expect from a modern hotel. The restaurant is good - don't miss Steak Night - and is recently reopened so the menu isn't in full swing. I've docked a point as the restaurant heating was broken for part of our stay but we were fine with big sweaters! Ian at front of house with Samuel in the kitchen are making a good job of getting the customers back.

Well what can I say spent the night here with friends and family absolutely brilliant Food excellent rooms excellent drinks excellent Ian and family went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable will be back again soon Ian

Called in on Thursday for liquid refreshment and to check out the vibe for dinner tonight. We was greeted by Claire who runs the place with her husband Mark. We decided to book. Having just returned from dinner there we would highly recommend. Again we...

Stopped for lunch. The dining room was more formal than the usual pub, more like a restaurant associated with a hotel. The food was good - had the scampi and chips which was nice. Service was prompt and friendly.

Super friendly and helpful waiting staff, nothing was too much trouble, and the food was really delicious.

We went for lunch for a birthday and must say the quality of the food was brilliant and the staff are really friendly and professional. The pub itself is charming and we'll definitely be back Thanks Mark and Claire

Recently stayed overnight here and wished our trip was longer as this is a fantastic place. Our stay was overnight with dinner and breakfast and was great value. Staff were really friendly and helpful, dinner in the evening was superb, full of flavour and lovely...

This the best the best value food and service I've had for a long time. It's gastro pub quality at budget pub prices. The pie and chips were amazing.

Friendly service. Food was good and nicely presented though perhaps not quite as tasty as it might be. Nevertheless a good place and glad it was open as there didn’t seem to be many places serving lunch around Rutland Water.

Stayed for a couple of nights, room is ok, basic but very clean and comfortable, staff are very friendly and chatty, lovely ambiance in the restaurant both at breakfast and dinner, the food is absolutely amazing and the highest quality, I believe its locally sourced,...

We popped in for a quick lunch on our round Rutland Water walk. The welcome was immediate and genuine. As a new barrel had been installed, the bar person explained all the processes involved. The food was excellent and at a reasonable price and we...

1st class stay.Great hosts.Fantastic food and service.Comfy bed.Highly recommended. Would not hesitate to revisit if ever in the vicinity of Rulland Water again. Thank you to Claire and Mark for looking after us so well. Strict observence of Covid protocols.

We had a 2 night stay at this location, it was absolutely value for money. From start to finish the staff were warm and friendly. The hotel/pub is sited adjacent to Rutland Water, its a 5 minute stroll to reach the waters edge so it...

So pleased to be able to return to a favourite venue with outstanding staff and lovely food. Well done The Noel - an outstanding venue which never faulters. We will return

From the minute we arrived we were extremely well looked after by the lovely owner and his wife. They were full of recommendations for first time visitors to the area, explaining nearby bike hires, walking routes and even booking us taxis to and from our...

Had a long overdue big family lunch get together. Venue were great at accommodating our large group with lots of kids in our party. They went out of their way to ensure we had a lovely lunch, food was excellent and service very friendly and...

We stayed here for one night and it was the most fantastic experience. From the moment we arrived the staff were so friendly and helpful and couldn't do enough for us. We had a few drinks then opted to eat in the evening and it...

Having eaten here several times very disappointed to being refused outside table service with no explanation. We’ve brought friends here visiting Rutland many times. Will not be returning.

Driving home we needed to stop for lunch and called in. Very nice looking pub and restaurant. Warm welcome and all very safely set out, felt very comfortable to eat there. Setting very nice and the menu was very good. A mix of smaller, sharing...

While doing the Viking Way we had dinner here & stayed over. Food was delicious! Good range to choose from & happy to accommodate. Very dog friendly (Barks was stone dead asleep for entire evening) Will be eager to visit again!

Very friendly service and great food. Good menu choice and The pizzas are fantastic! Well worth a visit.

The chef definitely knows how to prepare a delicious and generous plate of food. Very friendly efficient staff. Great place for family friends and couples. Book so as not to be dissapointed.

Quiet, comfy room for two nights, with excellent dinner and breakfast. The proprietor and staff have worked hard to create a safe and enjoyable environment during the current covid restrictions. Everything is cleaned, one-way system, sanitisers, excellent table spacing and no congestion areas. We felt...

Needing a nice lunch, but unsure about Covid conditions, we drove by twice before trying The Noel. So glad we did. We echo others' recommendations and findings of absolutely excellent food and cheerful service. Unfussy food, but perfectly cooked and presented. For example, the tomato...

Fantastic meal for three at The Noel. My wife’s mother’s birthday. The tempura starter was one of the best I have ever had. That was preceded by some complementary bread and dips. All three main courses had rave reviews. My own bacon and chicken carbonara...

Claire and Mark,with their team, held our wedding reception for us yesterday. Right from the initial enquiry back in January the customer service has been 2nd to none. Nothing has been too much trouble, the numbers have gone up and down, the menu choice was...

We visited on a Saturday night and the food was very good. The service was friendly. The venue lacked atmosphere but a good deal of this was down to the social distancing requirements.

Came to The Noel for dinner after a lovely afternoon walking at Rutland Water. The track-and-trace, one way system, and social distancing measures work well. We were warmly welcomed and made to feel at ease. The menu has understandably been reduced due to current circumstances...

Owing to the times we are going through, Clare and Mark have started a takeaway meals service and as always their food is excellent. I made our booking for Sunday lunch via Facebook ordering 2 roast beef dinners and a time slot was given for...

I couldn’t ask for more of a sunday roast, the beef was soft, yorkshire’s were big and roast potatoes were crispy. My daughter had chicken nuggets which were freshly battered chunks of chicken breast (she inhaled it) so we were over the moon she was...

The sign outside says "Great Food, Fine Wine and Delicious Draft Beers." , and we were certainly not disappointed. Great Food, Outstanding Service, Good Value all in a relaxed atmosphere. Would highly recommend, you will not be disappointed.

Once you get past the sterile Corporate setting (totally unexpected for a village pub) the food was good along with the service. £19 for 2 courses, reasonable value.

A regular diner there now, staff, food and atmosphere all perfect. I love this place. Ten out of ten, in every respect.

Just arranged a Annual Lunch for a party of 23 walkers with the Noel Arms at Whitwell. The Restaurant Manager and the Chef were most helpful in my request for a specific table arrangement, dietary needs and choices from the menu for the individuals attending. The food on the day was presented well and of the highest standard. Given the diversity of dished chosen by the diners, the service was well organised and controlled.

We went as a group of friends, one of whom is vegan. We were served by knowledgeable staff who were able to describe each dish clearly without having to consult anyone in the kitchen. The vegan was asked what she would like from a large range of dishes and had wonderful looking food including a spectacular dessert which others envied. Their risotto was really tasty and beautifully cooked and the batter on the tempura prawns and the onion rings was obviously home made, light and tasty. This isn't the Noel of years ago - this is a cheerful, well run restaurant with great, home prepared food at a very reasonable price.

Our meals were fabulous, They were well presented and cooked to perfection. They were full of flavour and the right amount of food served. Very friendly staff which turned out to be a family business. Only one small point, we had to ask for steak knife twice due to one person having poorly hands due to medical treatment, otherwise a very enjoyable meal.

Food was very good but service slow as there were 12 of us we should have pre-ordered perhaps. Nice pre-starter soup taster was appreciated all round, everyone said their meal was good. I had the belly pork which had a crispy top, perfectly cooked.

we came here on a busy saturday night and thought it was greatthere was a large party of ladies dining together, but in my opinion, this added to the ambience we had crispy battered prawns, beef slow cooked in red wine, but no room for puddings so we took some homemade fudge away with us (this lasted about 5 mins after we got back...fantastic)good selection of gin on the bar and nice wine by the glass lovely time had and will come back when we return to rutland

I'm reading the other reviews for The Noel at Whitwell and cant believe that we are talking about the same place! Our whole experience from start to finish was just bizarre, and not one that we will be repeating.

Had lunch a couple of times whilst staying in rutland. Owner and staff just so lovely and friendly and food was fantastic. Our dog was very comfortable too. Can't recommend this place enough

Excellent choice of evening meals, freshly prepared. The staff were welcoming and friendly and the decor of the surroundings was pleasant. It seems a very popular place to eat, so booking would be advisable as there were several larger groups on the two days we went.

Just had a most delicious dinner at The Noel, because we could't decide from the list of others in the area and this was nearest. A good decision - thanks Malcom for attentive, efficient and friendly service and to the chef for the good food. Excellent and tempting menu with plenty of choice for vegetarians and a very tastefully decorated and furnished restaurant. Would definitely come again, would recommend and will consider staying there in future as an alternative to an annual one night reunion in a local hotel whose restaurant did not compete.

Lovely restaurant that serves excellent food that's a cut above the average. Definitely go again as the service was so nice. Good wheelchair access using a ramp.

Lunch was ok but not alot of choice 8f you are being healthy. The drinks were a ridiculous price - £3.70 for a lime & soda. Unbelievable. At the end of the day soda is just carbonated tap water. Food was ok. Decor is very dark and old fashioned. Won't rush back.

Was turned away from the Fox and Hounds at Exton because "they were having a bad night" ... ??! Decided to have dinner at the noel and they couldn't have been more helpful and served reasonably priced and tasty dishes. Would recommend them.

Went for a meal last night. Food excellent, staff super effiecient and friendly, ambience wonderful. This is my new favourite reataurant.

The food is beautifully cooked and there is a good choice on the menu. They also have lovely fudge which you may purchase separately.

I believe the Noel was refurbished a few months ago. It has been tastefully done, modern, but very comfortable. The service was quick, pleasant and helpful. As a vegetarian, I usually have very little to choose from, but the options available to me were a bit different from the norm. I chose the omelette, which sounds quite ordinary, but it was the lightest, fluffiest omelette I've had in years. The chips were perfect, handcut and crispy, with just the right amount of fresh salad. The bread and butter pudding was the best I've ever had. Not had one like it before and will certainly be back for another one. I'm certain it is the first time I have eaten anywhere and been totally unable to find a fault with it.

This small, family owned and run hotel is a delightful place to stay if you plan to visit the beautiful countryside around Rutland Water. From the warm welcome to the bowl full of piping hot chips (in the middle of the afternoon) for hungry travellers - nothing was too much bother. The rooms are clean and comfortable and everyone is happy to help with any query you may have. The breakfast was really good. A large selection of fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals, nice toast, tea or fresh coffee and a 'full English all included in the B&B; price. One of the team also produces delicious hand-made fudge - not cheap but, being bespoke, the fudge is well worth trying.

We booked this hotel to stay for a couple of nights, to go cycling. On arrival we were greeted warmly and though our room was not ready as we were early, they offered to take our bags. We then went out and on return shown to our room. This is an old pub and the room did not disappoint, the bed was comfortable and it had a quirky old chest of drawers in the wall. There was tea coffee etc with a coffee machine and kettle, much appreciated. The bathroom by the looks of it was new and extremely clean with fluffy towels. The shower was great. We ate in the restaurant both nights we were there although we had not intended to as the first night the food was so good we knew we could not find better elsewhere, and they did not disappoint. The food in the evenings is freshly prepared and can be described as amazing delicious and tasty likewise the breakfasts in the morning, and the yummy desserts were all homemade which is always a massive bonus. The breakfasts are plentiful, with lots of fresh berries, and on our second day as well as toast there were scotch pancakes, and croissants. They really try to please here, i get the feeling that you could ask for anything within reason and they would do their utmost to get if for you. The location was superb, Just a 10 minute walk down to the lake side, and a perfect place to start a bike ride round the lake, or bike into Oakham. I will definitely pay them a visit again.

An excellent menu, not over-facing quantities and friendly but unobtrusive service. Reasonable prices but fine quality food.

We were staying in the hotel and arrived a little early for check in so had lunch while we waited. The food was good (chicken and bacon tagliatelle and a ham and pickle sandwich)

Called in on the off chance, as hadn't booked. We needn't of worried, apart from a small group who were obviously staying there, the place was empty, but it was a Monday evening. Always makes me wonder about what to expect when somewhere is this quiet, there was no need for that though, as there was a good menu, and the food, and beer were excellent. Would definitely eat here again if back in the area.

Lovely anniversary break away and this place didn’t disappoint. Felt really welcomed and looked after and food was amazing! Highly recommend

we visited the Noel restaurant while on holiday in Rutland we had been to two other places to eat on the two previous nights which were mediocre all i can say is we certainly saved the best till last. The interior was nicely decorated the staff were very courteous and friendly even offering some fishing advice. The food was just wonderful best salmon I've eaten cooked to perfection and very reasonably priced. My husband had the chicken and smoked pie which he said was very tasty. would most certainly return if down that way again.

Our Saturday night out turned out to be an unexpected delight. Not sure what we were expecting as we booked it last minute but turned out to be excellent food and excellent service by Mark (owner). If you've previously passed it by for a meal out then give it a go - the food was fab.

I have to say this place was the biggest let down by a Tripadvisor rating I have ever experienced. I still can't understand how a restaurant with such a high rating could be so dreadful. We went as a large group last summer, having pre-ordered our meals. Our first impression was was in line with the rest of our experience; the decor was plain ugly, and outdated with no character whatsoever. The carpets were worn and grubby. Our meal then just descended into farce. The food itself was merely unimpressive but the service was what really let the place down. It was painfully slow even though the place was half empty and highly unprofessional (mistaken or forgotten orders, dropped glasses and food, I could go on). We just ended up laughing the whole experience was so awful. And pretty embarassing for me as the organiser of the lunch.. Avoid.

We visited after driving past the previous day and deciding to pop informed lunch. The restaurant was very modern and clean and there was plenty on the menu to suit everyone. They were running a special half term deal which meant our little boy are for free however he still received a really good portion and standard of food. The food was lovely and the staff couldn’t do enough for us or our 1 year old son. Would really recommend a visit.

Had Sunday lunch here last weekend. 6 adults and a toddler for a family meal. Very few people in, so not much atmosphere, and I'm not sure I like the decor that much, but the lunch was delicious! Very good foot well cooked and presented, and good value for the quality. Friendly service. Huge range of gins available in the bar but disappointing (no) choice of real ales when we visited. Never-the-less an excellent lunch.

Booked a night away with bed, breakfast and evening meal included. Took our dog with us and he was made welcome too. The owners were attentive, friendly welcoming. The rooms were well appointed and clean. Dinner was exceptional and the service fab. Full English breakfast next day. Excellent value. Thank you.

I decided to avoid the traffic and take a break part way in to a long drive so I checked Trip Advisor and found The Noel at Whitwell

A fantastic restaurant with amazing food and 1st class service. Everyone was warm and welcoming from start to finish. A very contemporary design to the restaurant was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. Definitely more than just a "pub food" kind of place. Feel free to dress up as you won't be out of place. I had the black pudding to start followed by a perfectly cooked steak. Both were delicious. If I had to give a negative it would be that we requested a corner cable table at time of booking as was told not a problem. Unfortunately this was missed. Wasn't an issue in the end as the restaurant had a very lovely quiet atmosphere. Thank you for a lovely evening and I'm sure we'll be back soon. Rob

We were staying nearby and thought we would give the Noel a try, we were greeted by a friendly smile from an efficient young lady, who is an obvious asset to this business, our meal was excellent and very sensibly priced, many thanks.

We were staying a few hundred yards away and were keen to try the local pub. We first walked past mid afternoon, when it was closed. Not arriving by car made it quite hard to find the way in. The pub sign is on the main road but the actual establishment is a walk back behind a house and other buildings. We did walk all the way up to the entrance but could find no menu or opening hours to guide us.

After cycling round Rutland Water we stopped in at The Noel for lunch. Warm and friendly service, and a good lunchtime snack menu to choose from. Friend had the sausage sandwich on granary bread and enjoyed it. I had the tagliatelle with rocket, chicken and bacon and it was delicious. Felt like a good reward for all the pedalling!

Situated in a tiny Rutland village that is twinned with Paris is a fabulous place. It has the old charm that suits the village but with a really modern approach to food and service.

We have just renewed our vows and chose to have our reception at the nole and i must say that was the best decision we made where do i start Mark & Clare the owners were outstanding nothing was to much trouble we occupied 6 of there rooms and chatting to my friends they all agreed with me the rooms were fantastic good size spotlessly clean and well equipped we had a 3 corse meal served to us at our tables the service was swift the food was blo#%y fantastic everyone commented on it I promise you if you choose to have a function there you won’t be disappointed the same goes if you just call in for a meal over all 5 star thank you Mark & Clare we will be back

My oh my. I wish we didn't live over 2 hours drive away this would be my local to dine. We had mushroom on toast starter followed by slow cooked roast beef and a strawberry mouse dessert. The beef just melted in your mouth. It was absoultley delicious. There was a decent selection of alcoholic beverages and plenty of soft drinks. Mark and Clare made us all most welcome and tended to our every needs. Nothing was too much trouble. We stayed over night in one of their double rooms. It was immaculate. The bathroom was a great size the bed extremely comfortable. There was a T.V in the room. The room also had a coffee perculator which you could use to make tea. We ordered breakfast for 9 am. It was served on the dot. We had traditional full English breakfast which was made using local suppliers. Dares I say as a truck driver possibly the best breakfast I have ever tasted. Tea coffee and juice all came with it. Would I recommend The Noel? Without a shadow of doubt. If you are ever passing or live nearby and not been here give it a visit you will not be disappointed. We will deffinately be comming back in the near future.

Dropped in for a meal while driving past and what a fantastic meal as we had read some great reviews. We will definitely be back! Amazingly we were the only people in the place but the landlord was fantastic and really looked after us, catered for our various oddities - gluten free, cheese free, etc, and the food was as good as anything I've eaten anywhere in the world and great value for money. Cannot recommend highly enough.

Excellent meal and service. Special mention to the Chef and Maitre-De who both did an outstanding job. Great touch was a mini soup starter for us all, even though we had only ordered mains. A box of toys at the restaurant also helped to keep an 18month old entertained.

The car park did look a bit devoid of vehicles when we arrived for lunch, we thought that the hot weather had put customers off. However, we saw a handful of eaters in the outdoor area and we made our way inside. Nicely laid out restaurant, not too busy but cosy, service was very good throughout, the waitress was friendly and efficient. The food was very nice, decent portions and tasted good, i'd happily recommend here for a meal and hope to be back for a dinner in the future.

We almost didn't visit the Noel, first impressions on driving into the car park were a little offputting. Only one other car in sight, and the outside of the pub didn't look especially inviting, but we were very glad we took a chance. We were the first guests of the evening (it was only just after 6.30), but the welcome was warm and friendly and the interior of the pub was attractive and smart.