The Traveller's Friend in West Berkshire

Great little spot to stop for dinner. Sunday roast was tasty, fresh & hot. Staff were very welcoming and friendly.

Enjoyed the meal, had the beef very tender and a good selection of vegetables it tasted wonderful, thank you. Had Peach Melba for desert, there was a lovely selection of ice cream deserts all at a reasonable price. You do need to book for a Sunday, and I hope to go back during the week for lunch, which has a good menu.

It was a dark and stormy night. We we’re heading to meet some friends and had been travelling for some time when the car started to falter. The wind was howling and pushing the car from side to side the rain was so heavy the wipers couldn’t clear the screen quick enough. So I decided we needed to find shelter. In the distance I could see some lights so we headed towards them. Managing to nurse the car we pulled up at a pub called the Travellers Friend. The wife and I put on our coats and rushed through the front door to seek comfort. I pushed the large wooden front door open and it creaked with age. I couldn’t see anyone so I called out hello? There was no immediate reply. Suddenly there was a large clap of thunder followed by a flash of lightning that lit the room momentarily and by the bar I saw a tall slim dark figure. Can I help you sir said the man. Yes a table for four please two pints and two glasses of wine I said. Certainly sir he replied. Our guests arrived and we dined on some of the best restaurant food I’ve had in sometime, fantastic portions, perfectly cooked and served by friendly staff in lovely surroundings. It was an excellent meal and extremely affordable too. The End Next episode: The Travellers Friend revisited.

Excellent food, service and outdoor area. Friendly and helpful staff. Been here many times and have never found a fault. Food is always good and reasonably priced. Lovely garden for the children. I highly recommend

Just got back from the Travellers Friend and once again great food,great atmosphere and friendly and polite staff. Landlord had me and family in fits of laughter. Thank you.

I've eaten here several times now and visited again this week. I've had the burger the last 2 times and it has been very good and very filling! The steaks here are cooked to perfection too. The service has always been outstanding and i can't wait to visit again and try the carvery :)

We went to the Travellers Friend with two friends and we had lovely food and service was very good. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

I’ve visited the Travellers, infrequently, for nearly 30 years. It is only recently that I have been visiting more regularly. It’s a quirky pub (in a good way) and a critic may suggest updating the interior. However, I like it the way it is. Nobby, the landlord, has been in the game for years and is well respected in the local area. The food is amazing; my daughters had burgers, followed by sundaes, which looked and tasted amazing (I nicked some). The choices included, honeycomb, peach Melba and cookies and cream, to name a few. My mum opted for the veggie omelette and I followed suit. It was very good and a fair sized salad came with it, as well as chips. The food is consistently good and value for money. Finally, I had a pint of Caledonian Deuchars. This was well kept and tasted great.

I normally give good reviews, very rare I will do a bad one but in this case I think this one is justified. Our son was taking us out for Sunday lunch on 3rd March as a treat, two weeks prior to that my son rang to book a table for three and was told by the landlord, “ No Need to book”as there is always space at the time I requested. (1 o’clock). But to be safe I rang to book to be told the same thing. So today we turned up at at 1 o’clock, only to be told they were busy and had no tables left. I told the waiter what the landlord had said, ( he being behind the bar at the time) . The waiter said they only take bookings for six or more but the majority of the people in there were smaller groups, I also reminded him that their website said it’s recommended to book on Sundays as it can get very busy. But he wouldn’t take the booking saying we would definitely be ok for a table. On hearing this being said, the landlord did a disappearing act and left the young waiter to deal with us. not very professional. But we managed to get into a very nice pub in the area,and had a super lunch, no thanks to the landlord of the Travellers Friend. We will not return.

I eat at the Travellers nearly every Sunday for a carvery which is really good food come out of their feeling really full and very satisfied staff a fantastic atmosphere fantastic the whole place is fantastic that's all I can say about that I've also eaten during the week the food again is fantastic and the landlady and landlord are really really nice people couldn't wish for a better landlady and landlord I'd recommend this place to anybody and it is really good for children very children orientated with the animals and the outside side swing and climbing frame what have you nice big garden really good for children especially in the summer and I would as I say recommend this place to anyone

This is the second time this month I have been to eat and both times I couldn't fault the food or the service. The first was a family group of 15 just a bout all with different choices. The food came all together whilst the kitchen and server were dealing with another party of 12, Second visit with my wife and daughter again excellent tasty food.The food comes with generous portions and served nicely the bar is well stocked with a large number of beers and spirit's to choose from wins are also available. I notice that outside there is an ample play area for children, great in the summer.

The outside was slightly uninspiring, probably because it was winter, the inn sign was missing from its post, the front is basically a car park and location has nothing much around it. We were there for a family meal on the Saturday before Christmss and the inn was quite quiet - I guess most people were out Christmas shopping. It's main claim to fame apparently its Sunday carvery. The interior was unpretentious and the inn is very family-friendly with a large outdoor play area, which the younger members of the family enjoyed, enabling them to release some of their energy. I had prawns for a starter, then the steak and kidney pie, followed by apple and blackcurrent crumble and ice cream. The food was delicious and the portions were huge. Perhaps two courses would have sufficied, but it was a birthday celebration. The staff were friendly and helpful and we had an enjoyable lunch It was fun that there were goats keeping an eye on us from the adjacent farm

Looking for Sunday lunch- looked on the website missed that they only do roasts on a Sunday. Lucky it was well worth the visit and the meal was very good so well done. Constructive criticism- the thin elderly gent behind the bar get him to put his teeth in, not very pleasant.

Absolutely amazing Sunday roast. I went with my wife, 18 month old son, 3 year old daughter and had the most wonderful experience, the food, the atmosphere, the staff all PERFECT. I said too my wife the roast dinner was as nice as Christmas dinner which to me is the very best meal of the entire year!! Thank you

Called in on the off chance that we would get a table, lucky for us we were seated in the conservatory, lovely and airy with a view of the garden which was well kept with play things for the children. We had arrived early so there was room to park, large car park. The staff were all very pleasant and attended to us very quickly. The carvery itself was delicious the best we have had for a long time and very reasonably priced too £10.95. The gammon just melted in your mouth, we were also offered the turkey a generous amount of each, there was a good selection of vegetables, Could not fault the food or the service. Next time we will book because we would probably of not got seated if we had been much later. My only critique would be that DOGS are not allowed in the pub or in the garden, they can only be walked around the car park. That is the only reason why l did not give a 5 star rating.

Called in without booking and was lucky to be seated very quickly. Amazing carvery, thoroughly enjoyed the food. Service was friendly and polite. Reasonaby priced for the quality food. Definitely an experience to repeat!

Very busy pub with a carveryas well as other dishes,we chose the carvery I had beef very tender good selection of vegetable and served on hot plates....generous portion of meat....all the vegetables were hot.a very busy pub and you need to book.carvery was£10.95....good value for money plenty of parking

Wow..traditional old school pub and si is the decor,something quite appealing about that..the food is well presented and is delicious proper homecooked and proper tasty..tip..keep it open by visiting it..

i have eaten the carvery many times at the Travellers Friend and feel it is the best in West Berkshire meat done to perfection veg cooked to perfection,staff are very polite and always on hand to give help if needed, i have had family meals, birthday carvery there and never has it been anything else but very good and as for the sausages people love them so much that they have asked where they get them from but it is an in house secret never to be told. after reading the bad review i feel that the person who wrote it was just looking for something to complain about.

Visited the travellers friend for the first time as a table of 8 for my birthday, had a fantastic meal, 5 star food & service waiting staff was so polite with singing my birthday song along with my cake, comment below me must of been at a different pub.

I have been eating a carvery at the Travellers Friend for the last 7 years I have taken my relatives there also and have never had a bad meal the staff are always helpful and nothing is too much trouble it is the best place for eating in the area. I would recommend it to anyone.

We went to the travellers friend as a family of 5. The website said best to book but when we called we were told they only take bookings of 6 or more. We decided to risk it anyway. Went along and it was pretty quiet luckily so we got a table, we were told to get our own high chair. No one told us what the set up for the Carvery was so we sat and waited a while and in the end I had to go to the bar despite several staff passing us. We ordered our food and I took the two kids up to get their food. This was where I found several hairs in the cauliflower cheese. I told the server who took it away, no apology.

It was busy when we called in on Friday 7 September however we were seated almost immediately and had placed our order within 10 minutes. The food arrived some 20 minutes later and we were taken aback by the well presented portion sizes. Liver and bacon with ample fresh vegetable and cottage pie also with fresh veg. A most enjoyable meal and excellent value for money. Traditional pub grub and other dishes available in relaxed and pleasant family friendly surroundings. We will visit again, probably for Sunday lunch.

I recently came to The Travellers Friend for my brothers 50th Birthday party. The room was a perfect size for buffet and disco and we all had a brilliant evening. The staff were absolutely outstanding and nothing was too much trouble. They went above and beyond in every aspect. What a cracking night! Thanks to all x

Booked for a birthday celebration ,14 people ,arrived to 4 round tables apart , food ok ,although some hot desserts were cold in the Center,my grandson went to the toilet and when he returned his dessert dish was gone with his cookie still on it ,when I asked for it or another one was told it had been thrown away and they didn’t have any more ! Bit mean I thought ,wouldn’t rush back to eat there again .

Good location for family gathering, plenty of parking spaces. Good variety of starters, main courses, light lunches and desserts on offer all at reasonable prices and generous portion sizes,

We stopped here to try out the Sunday carvery for the first time. The pub is only on our doorstep but we typically go to the Toby Carvery in Newbury. We came in very late at 2.45pm as we knew they stopped serving food at 3pm. It was no bother to the staff though and the Chef explained that he only had new potatoes left and had run out of stuffing but would put on some Yorkshire puddings for us. We had no issue with this as we knew we were pushing the time a bit. All four of us were very happy with both the quality and quantity of the food and would happily come here again as an alternative to the carvery at Toby. It may not quite have the same range of accompaniments as the Toby but you don't have to wait for.a table for.up to.an hour like we always have to at the Toby. Price wise it was very reasonable at just over a tenner each. All good and we'll be going back - earlier of course to make sure we get stuffing and roast potatoes

Cheap and cheerful but can't resist saying it's like a Toby (but without the tattoos!). Last time we visited it was much better.All in all a good place to visit.

Visited today with 24 family members for our twins Birthday. Had booked the conservatory some time ago , no deposit required and everything went perfectly . Felt very relaxed we weren't rushed at all. Staff all friendly, Sunday carvery delicious and reasonably priced. Birthday cake bought out by staff, so kind . Thankyou so much, will be returning .

Dropped by with young kids as I saw reviews of a good children's area. I ordered some drinks from polite bar staff and proceeded to the garden where we were confronted by drunk families swearing at the top of their voices with rough kids telling my little girl that she was not allowed to play on the swing as it 'is mine not yours'. We finished the drink and left quickly. I hope for the pub that this is not their regular clientele.

Excellent meal for 5 people - Highly recommend it - Plenty of choice - Large parking area - Good for kids

Nice lunch time carvery and drinks were priced so as not to rip you off. Plenty of parking and a large function room. Big outside area for eating with large kids play area.

Managed to get in without booking after a failed attempt somewhere else. Seated quickly, good food and dessert. Great garden with children's park. Great service.

Decidimos visitar aquí después de oír sobre el asado los domingos. Estaba bastante ocupada en 1. 15 Pero principalmente fuera ya había un montón de asientos interiores. Nos sentamos y reflexionaron sobre las opciones antes de ordenar. El personal era un poco, y todo parecía que no quería estar allí, especialmente la camarera joven apuntalar la pared en el camino. El edificio antiguo, pero que quizás hubiera sido bien pared mis queridos. Mi amiga tenía la carne de cerdo y tuve la (no) y nos llena chispeante el plato con varias verduras y salsa. Mi cerdo era un poco grasos, debería haber tenido la carne porque era muy sabroso, cuando mi amigo me dejaron un trocito. En general, fue una buena asado, pero no uno por £10. 95. El relleno era un poco duro y la roasties no eran de la mejor calidad, pero todas las otras verduras estaba bien. Una joven camarera plantea una sonrisa y preguntó si Nuestras comidas estaban bien y entonces el menú de postres. Quizás la próxima vez.

Stumbled across this pub when we got lost last weekend. Both of us ordered The Travellers Friend Burger. It was delicious!!! Makes a change to find somewhere that uses good quality ingredients, lovely burgers, proper decent think cut bacon, lovely cheddar cheese and nice crispy thick cut chips. All the sauces were Heinz and the food was good value too :-)We will definitely be back.

Whilst out & about around the area, we decided to find somewhere to eat lunch. I sat in car looking on my phone & came across The Travellers Friend. We ordered from a very good menu, grabbed our drinks and went to sit down, lovely place & airy. The food arrived after a while but it was all so worth the wait, mixed grill was so huge that hubby struggled to eat it all, I order ham, eggs & chips and this too was a large portion, I can honestly say that it was lovely and if we are ever in the area again we would certainly go there again.

We had the Sunday carvery for 6 - good food, good situation and easy to find. Very busy but the carvery was well organised. Offers value for money - I had roast gammon which was very tasty. Others had roast beef and my wife had ham, eggs and chips - all reasonably priced.

The food is outstanding - the best around and reasonably priced. It's a roomy restaurant with many different areas to sit and eat. The staff are helpful and friendly and the atmosphere has a family feel. The Sunday carvery is exceptional and always served with a smile.

Monday lunchtime visit with group of eight. Only clients. Food was well cooked and plentiful. Service was good.

We booked a table for 10 at short notice for the carvery and managed to get a table. Rang ahead to check that they did a veggie roast to be told yes, usually 3 choices of main and the roast potatoes were cooked in vegetable oil.When we arrived were told they had told us wrong on the phone and that the roast potatoes were in fact cooked in meat juices. Bit disappointing that i had settle for mashed potato as not a fan. Then told they were out of veggie gravy! ! So lunch was rather bland and dry for myself. That aside, the meat eaters seemed to be happy with their meals and there was plenty of it.Desserts were ok although a little uninspiring with cheap ingredients.It was very busy with a lot of people crammed in, with people queuing 20 deep for the carvery all behind where you were sitting so there was no way you could go back for seconds even if you wanted to. Very hectic and noisy. A bit like a school canteen.Was disappointed were still charged full price for my main meal even though I was missing two vital ingredients on my lunch and I was very misled! I really wanted to like this place and try it on a weekday lunch but not so sure I will now.

We came to the travellers for a family birthday party. They catered for us well using the conservatory for 20 of us Including children. The carvery was lovely! Good choice of meats that were cooked well. With a variety of fresh vegetables. Would definitely recommend, good value for money.

The pub is a great family pub for food and drink. The entrance is a bit lacklustre with awkward front doors. The bar area is a bit out dated but the rest is good. Outside is a large garden with large park area surrounded by tables. Also there's a field with horses in that is cute. My only fault on the play area is that there's no gate to separate the park from the car park. Yeah I hear ya saying you should keep an eye on your kids. But any1 with kids would agree that that's not always possible. I would attend this pub more often as would a lot of my friends if this woz adresed.There's a separate venue room with its own bar for hire joined on to this pub. Which flows out to the park so is perfect for parties. Theres a shop on the side of the pub which is also a great touch.

This is one of the hidden gems in West Berkshire. I've been here a couple of times for Sunday Roast, and the food has always been excellent. The Chef serves up at least three different roasts (Beef, Pork and Ham last time) and there is plenty of vegetables to chose from and a good selection of desserts if you have the room afterwards!It can be really busy for a Sunday lunch, and is popular with families, so a bit noisy at times, but not excessively so and the play area outside soon attracts the children. The staff are very helpful and polite. We will definitely be back again.

another fab sunday carvery, always loads of fresh veg and a good selection of meats,the staff are always very polite it's a pleasure to eat their. thanks to you all.see you again soon.

Popped in for a roast dinner after hearing good reviews. It was really busy at just after 12 having only been opened for 10minutes! Staff attentive and lovely carvery dinner.Definitely recommend for Sunday roast

Very friendly staff .A young lad came to take my plate away then realised my husband was still eating apologised, if there is one thing that annoys me I hate people clearing away when someone on the table is still eating. that means 10 /10 to me.

Once again a really great time at the traveller's friend . very relaxing every one so friendly.the local people are always welcoming.john jullie and nobby are a great team.food is always great.thanks for a great stay.(Kevin the chef).

The best pub in the area. Food is stunning, well presented and plentiful.Beautiful gardens and lovely undercover areas. One for non smokers which is lovely.Very pleasant surroundings.Staff are very friendly and make you most welcome.They have lovely bed and breakfast. You would have to go along way to beat the huge breakfast.A must visit for everybody

Iv been to travellers friend a few times with my family it's quite a relaxed feeling child friendly.they have a few things for children to play on.they also cater for parties in a hall at side of pub.the foods is good pub food.

Came with older family, the place would make a really good venue. We came for lunch and the food was nice and plentiful. As were the drinks. Immaculate garden with stuff for children to do. Always overlooked but not no more. Give it a try...

We have visited a few times for a carvery sunday lunch, very good staff, a good range of drinks including non alcoholic for the driver plenty of parking. Clean and tidy, well worth a visit we will again soon

Such a lovely relaxed atmosphere, the staff are friendly and make you feel very welcome. Food is always fresh and delicious. We have also been as a group of 8 and still no complaints. Its the best Sunday lunch in Thatcham and Newbury. You do need to book, as it gets busy, but definitely worth it.

Taken Mother back here as she asked to go , She has been before and enjoyed it so much she wanted to go again, Food was good and the veg was fresh , and there was more than enough . Service was good , I will be going back again soon , Thank you Julie for a lovely meal , JED Haycock

Had a lovely family meal turned into a yearly meeting point very nice location and staff are very friendly

I eat at this place regularly. The food is always fantastic and service is excellent. Never had a bad experience here. Beautiful setting on Crookham Common.

I have eaten here twice with family recently and the staff have always been friendly and welcoming with efficient service and good food. The inside is slightly dated but almost adds to the charm of this place.

We visited the travellers friend recently for some lunch,weve never been inside before despite driving past for the last 30 years.Its in a lovely position on crookham common.The weather that day was sunny but quite chilly so we decided to stay inside.When we entered the pub there were only 2 other people inside plus the barman,so was very quiet.The decor was very nice,and the seating looked like it had been refurbished recently so it was very nice and comfortable.As we were only having a light lunch we just kept it simple,we had 2sausage and onion baguettes and 2 drinks which came to about £15.Had to wait about 15 minutes for the food but it was worth it,the sausages were lovely and piping hot and the baguette was nice and fresh it also came with some salad and coleslaw.We plan to visit this pub again but probably in the evening and try the main menu.

Family friendly with good staff that are willing to help when needed so you can enjoy your visit in a relaxed atmosphere with good value dinning.

Stayed here before two years ago and just stayed again for six days whilst working in the area. The rooms as always were spotless, warm and comfortable with en suite facilities and a great shower, and the breakfast is legendary and worth a visit alone. The whole pub is spotless and the staff are great and can't do enough for you. The evening meals are also very good and the carvery on a Sunday is excellent with generous portions and well prepared food served quickly by polite and friendly staff. Nobby the barman deserves a special mention as he couldn't do enough for us throughout our stay regardless of what time of the day or night it was and was always on hand if needed. Thanks to John and Julie the owners for providing us with this excellent place to stay, cooking our meals and taking the time to sit and spend time chatting with us and making us feel at home during our stay, well worth a visit.

After 6 miles we were ready for lunch. Extensive menu, pleasant welcome and spacious pub. Quick service and we were all very pleased with our main courses. My cheese and tomato omelette with chips and salad was delicious and just £7.50. Coffee reasonably priced. I would definitely recommend this pub. On we went for three more miles very full!

Fantastic carvery 12-3 on Sunday....Vast selection of roasted meats, beef, gammon and pork or lamb shank, yorkies, sausages, stuffing, brocolli, carrots, new potatoes, peas, cauliflower cheese YUMMY also a selection of normal pub grub was available, ham, 3 eggs & chips, scampi & chips, fish pie, etc etc......good portions, all pipping hot worth every penny. A warm friendly team of staff. Great value highly recommend a visit!!!

We visited the travellers yesterday and we're in a party of 13. I can honestly say the staff couldn't do enough for you...very friendly and made sure everything was okay with our meals. The carvery is delicious fresh veg, good choice of meat, sausage, stuffing and Yorkshire puddings. I have visited the travellers before and I must say the portion sizes are just amazing! Considering what you pay and the quality of the food I think your all doing a great job...will hopefully see you again soon :)

Whilst I haven't been to this pub recently, the landlady has done a lot to bring this pub up to a first class eatery, it has three eating areas one being a light and airy conservatory, two bars and a good children's play area, the Sunday carvery is always very well attended and I would recommend booking

Pulled in here hoping for a Sunday meal, quite busy but greeted quickly by a lovely young gentleman who immediately found us a table. Amazing Sunday roast with extras you don't normally get in a pub. Would definitely recommend to friends and family. Prices are good for the fresh quality food you receive. Will be returning. Thank you

This is one of the pubs that I had always driven past and never went in. After a good recommendation from family I went there for a Saturday afternoon lunch. I was noticed that they advertise on the back of the local Thatcham Town Football Club.There was plenty of parking and it was not busy inside. There are plenty of seats inside as they use the conservatory part too.The food was nice, the guests that I was with are usually very critical with restaurant food, but they said it was really nice quality Burger.The prices are reasonable I think the burger was around £10 so it the usual price I would pay.Overall I would come here again, lovely location as well.

we stayed for 2 nights,the room was basic but thats all you need for a short stay,beds were comfy and clean,but there were no covers on the mattress,we had to put our toiletries on the toilet seat needs a little shelf no bedside lamps,i found the kettle was too low for me as i am disabled,the owners were pleasant. we could not have breakfast as it was awkward for them,will use it again as it was reasonable price to stay

Our first experience was not good for a sunday carvery. To be fair it was extremely busy but unfortunately they ran out of food, mainly roasties. We had 9 in our group and had prebooked so decided to leave as we were starving. As we had prebooked and left a contact number, we later received a call from Julie the owner apologising saying that they had never had a sunday like that before and offered us all a complimentary carvery to make up for our wasted visit. Well our second visit was absolutely fantastic, all fresh veg, great tasty meats, sausages and all the trimmings, the gammon was mmm mmm, this has to be the best carvery we have had, beating your toby and crown carvery hands down, also close to beating the wifes but not quite..I would like to thank Julie and John for a great meal and I would definately recommend the Travellers Friend for food.John did tell me that he had had a carvery meal once which wasn't that impressive and said he could do better, well John you certainly have.Thankyou to all at the Travellers Friend.We will be back.

Dropped in here on way through ,all other restaurants full to capacity.this establishment looked smart and clean,had trip advisor posters.although warning signs were there, hardly any vehicles to start with.inside was clean and neat.menu was comprehensive,the bar tender was friendly,food arrived and looked nice ,not special but satisfactory.odd here no one else in restaurant.any eat our food mine was ok but my companions was so very obviously package food.,and was just as tasteless.shame really as has potential to be very good eating place.bill was reasonable.worth a visit but choose your food selection with care..

Family christening large party we were all accommodated and fed at the Carvery highly recommend the beef just melted in your mouth. Grandson chose ham egg and chips it was certainly a very large plateful which he thoroughly enjoyed. Nothing was too much trouble love coming back here to eat travelling from Swindon.

It was a Friday night Bingo night didn't matter we had a table in the conservatory i had the best Bangers and Mash ever, we have always had a good meal here over the years and we will be back

This is a very friendly pub/restaurant, the food is excellent especially the carvery on a Sunday. But it does not matter what food you have it is always excellent. Once you have been you will want to go back time and time again.

I found the Atmosphere and Customer Service absolutely fabulous it is like visiting a friends house Staff are so welcoming, Kind and very helpful

Lovel outside space, play area for kids and some goats in the car park and ponies in the nearby field. The food was lovely and value for money. Great place for a sunny day with the family.

Stopped off early evening. Barman was friendly and accommodating. Food came in good time and met our expectations. Nice open garden area at the back if the weather is good. Ate in the conservatory while was light and airy. Was early evening and the pub was reasonably empty, not sure what it might be like when really busy.

Yesterday six of us had Sunday Lunch and a most enjoyable time we had. The food was excellent and the hotel itself had a really friendly atmosphere. Plenty of interesting items on the walls etc. The Toilets were exceptional, immaculate which is unusual for this type of restaurant. The only fault found was the vegetables could have been a bit hotter, I am sure they would have heated them if we had asked. Lindsey and Josh looked after us and although they are young gave a professional service. Thanks for a really good experience. We will be back next year. Many thanks. Bill Lankester MBE

Family had arranged a get together in this centrally located (for all of us) Inn. The function room had been booked and for our purposes it was excellent. There was access for the younger elements to run in and out of the room without disturbing others. There was comfy seating for the less energetic and a dance floor big enough to cater for those in between. The function room had its own bar, again so there was no disturbance to other customers. I did think that the cost of soft drinks was a little high at £2.05p for a medium size glass of cola. As we had travelled, we elected to stay in the overnight in the accommodation provided at £69/room/night (B&B). It was clean but very rudimentary. IE the room was approx 10ft square and had twin beds (we had asked for a double.) and rather tired pillows. More pillows were provided on request.It had one horizontal surface for a dressing table which was occupied by a small TV (19"). On the wall behind was a mirror which was too high to see into as a lady may wish to whilst applying make up whilst seated on the stool provided. (If it wasn't for the TV in the way and the inadequate lighting both in quality and direction.) Ladies know about these things.There were tea making facilities provided as advertised................ except for a kettle. We discovered this first thing in the morning......... just in time for breakfast. There was some hanging space and shelving but no doors on them. No fridge and no safe.There were two o/head ceiling lights which could be switched on or off from a switch at the door or by a switch located almost centrally between the two beds. Not too convenient if awaking disorientated in an unfamiliar location and in need of the bathroom when you don't have a clue where it is.The bathroom again was clean and functional.There are some non expensive improvements that could be made to improve the comfort of guests and make them wish to return.Breakfast was taken in the well appointed bar. The carpets and furnishings were very clean and fresh. It doubtless made a warm and welcoming place to relax and enjoy the range of liquid refreshments available. It seems to be free house with no attachment to any particular brewery chain.Did not ask for a cereal option but the " full English" was very tasty and well presented with toast and a pot of tea per person.There is a small village shop on the premises that sells a wide range of things for guests and locals alike. Not sure if it part of the restaurant or independent, but it is there and very convenient.The main thrust of this review is to appreciate the food, drinks and service, but be careful if you enjoy your creature comforts on the accommodation side.

I eat a gluten free diet because of health problems. When I asked which meals were gluten free I was told " That could be difficult" The guy had no idea. I chose a jacket potato and an ice cream dessert and was ill for two days. I thought that new legislation stated that they must know either verbally or in writing about food contents. Am I wrong? I will say in their favour that the place was immaculate both inside and out.

Having read the previous reviews, I was surprised to be able to book a table for Easter Sunday with just 24 hours notice. However we got a table for 3 easily....The Sunday carvery is good value at £9.95 each. The food choice was good - beef or gammon. Veggies were pretty good and the chef serving was a very cheerful chap. In fact all of the staff were very friendly and welcoming. The pudding selection was a little uninspiring, but we were full up!Overall a reccomend.

Enjoyed a lovely Sunday Roast, reasonably priced in nice surroundings. Friendly staff, would highly recommend.

I have been to the Travellers Friend many times, but I kept forgetting to share my experience and advise how great the food, service & staff are. The pub/restaurant is in a beautifull location., with goats, horses & birds, great outside play area for the kids.This is a tradittional pub with a beautiful light and airy conservatory. You can even stay the night.The carvery is delicious and plenty of meat & vegatables cooked to perfection. The staff do check on you to make sure your ok, but not overbearing like some places. Do book in advance to avoid dissapointment, as they do get very busy.

Simply great Sunday carvery! Food was lovely. Plenty of choice. Will definitely be going back again. :)

Having eaten here with my wife and two small children on a number of Sundays and always been impressed by the quality of the food we decided to book a table for 8 and take the in laws out for lunch. A huge success with the carvery food being excellent as always and pudding a success all round. Father in law loved his spotted dick and custard and our little girls one scoop of strawberry ice cream became two scoops as the kitchen had forgotten to bring it out with the others. No real delay or harm done but this little extra touch is why we will be returning again and again and telling as many people as we can about the quality of the food and service. Good range of beers as well.

We all really enjoyed our carvery Sunday lunch lunch. Great food, good choice of puddings, friendly and helpful service.I would like to see a vegetarian option on the childrens' menu, maybe quorn sausages?We all said we will be visiting again.

Always a delight the owners and staff are friendly i always try and stay there when I am fishing at Aldermaston mill. Food is always top quality. And nothing is to much trouble.

Nice place with good pub menu at reasonable prices including child menu. Portions are generous. Food is tasty. Didn't sample the desserts, but they did look good ! Service is good and quick.Overall a very good experience and would definitely come back.

Been to the Travellers Friend today for a family birthday celebration. Food was fantastic,well cooked and great choices available in main courses and puddings. Atmosphere was warm and welcoming, staff could not be any more accommodating and professional. Great service all round, good country pub and restaurant.Sylvia, Peter & family.

went to the Traveller's Friend today had a lovely Sunday roast with all the trimmings cooked to perfection the staff where very friendly and made us feel welcome great value for money highly recommend a visit you won't be disappointed. Skippy & Mary

We live next door to the Travellers but we don't use it as often as we would like because we can't afford to these days. However when we do go out for a drink the Travellers is where we go. There are always two real ales to choose from and the staff are great company. We have eaten during the week on the odd occasion and the menu is not huge but we have always enjoyed our food. Sundays however are a different matter altogether. We love a good carvery and this one most certainly fits that description. The meat is so succulent and beautifully cooked, especially the beef. I'm not the biggest beef fan but I have it every time, don't bother with a knife, you won't need it! Sunday lunch is very popular for very good reasons so a booking is probably best. Enjoy!

Booked a table for six plus room for a buggy. It was for Sunday lunch having heard good things about the carvery. We weren't disappointed. Served very quickly and because we had children with us but weren't in the room with the menu board had the kids options explained to us as well as being advised that there were alternatives to the carvery as well should we want it. We all went for the carvery and the food was excellent. Well cooked and generous portions of meat. With the help yourself vegetables properly cooked as well - not boiled to mush as they so often are elsewhere. Staff were attentive without being pushy and at no point did we feel rushed - despite it being a very busy Sunday.Only gripe would be that the Sundaes felt a little overpriced compared to the single scoops of ice cream which were much better value and almost as much ice cream as the Sundaes. Very minor quibble on what was an otherwise excellent lunch experience. We will be back.

Well as we'd been here for a couple of meals and were really pleased with our food, the pub we choose The Travellers Friend as our venue for a large family gathering. Many family members travelling 3 hours to get here. In all there were 26 of us. When we booked we were told that we would have the conservatory and be allowed to have our food and stay in there. Now when we arrived we were told they had to book out the conservatory for 3pm we arrived at 1.30. By the time you pay, organise, get your food that took a bit of time. Especially with quite a few young children to seat. We were then hurried to finish our dinner and hurried to order pudding. As my husband was eating his pudding we were told to leave the conservatory to go to the other side of the pub. So he had to eat his pudding standing up!!!!! I didn't even get mine. So all in all a horrible experience and an embarrassing one as we were the ones who picked the venue. Also my cousin and her husband own 2 very lovely restaurants in Cornwall they most definitely know how customers should be treated. Just as well we all just enjoyed each others company. Oh and we didn't even get an apology from the management. I have never had to write a bad review and it's not something I like to do but I felt I needed to.

I would just like to say that I have just had the most delicious Steak and Ale Pie with vegetable and my husband had Fish Pie and vegetables. We both have said that these dishes were the best pies we have ever had at a restaurant. Full of taste and flavour and good value for Money. On a Friday evening when you can't be bothered to cook - a superb end to a busy week.The pub has a warm and friendly welcome from staff and owners.

I was working in the area and stayed in the little rooms at the back of the pub. The staff were all very friendly and the food was really nice.There was even a village store on the grounds to get any bits and pieces to take for lunch. All in all a pleasant stay.

Visited The Traveller's Friend for the first time last night with three friends. From the minute I walked in, I knew I was in a superb pub. Although it was quiet for a Friday evening, the place was buzzing with conversation amongst the regulars.I had two pints of very well kept real ale, which were absolutely fantastic. Drinks were reasonably priced, £14.15 for a pint of ale, two wines and lemonade, and a diet coke. The pub was clean and tidy, and the barman was very friendly and polite, which I have to praise.We didn't eat, although I'm sure we will when we make a return visit soon, as judging by the size of the portions we saw arriving at the table in front of us, they looked very impressive. Bravo!

Visited this pub yesterday on the way home. We were a little late to sample the food but judging from other reviews we'll definitely be back.The pub is clean and looks welcoming from the outside. Indeed, on entering we received a warm, friendly welcome from the barman. There was an interesting selection of beers along with the usual pub favourites. The barman was extremely knowledgable and my hubby finally chose Ramsburys Deer Stalker which had a good balance of maltiness to bitterness and, according to him, was a very pleasant pint.As a cider drinker I often find the choices in pubs are limited to the mass produced Bulmers / Magners etc, but again the barman came up trumps and suggested Hogs Back Brewery's Hazy Hog. Being a cloudy cider it's not one I would normally choose as past experience has not always been pleasant. However, I was more than pleasantly surprised as it had excellent taste and wasn't overly gassy - it had a taste very much like Stowfords, my favourite cider.We retreated to the beer garden to enjoy our drinks / bar snacks and the peace of the countryside. The barman popped outside a little later to enquire if I liked the cider - unexpected but very considerate I thought - and we chatted about the local breweries and their various beers and the merits of beer festivals.Overall a very friendly pub and, though not our local, I will definitely be paying further visits in the future.

I treated my two sisters for lunch, basic pub lunch, was ok nothing amazing,little expensive for what we got, great for kids big play area.

Went for dinner last night and omg it was good! The hubby got the mixed grill and he has SO much food and all cooked perfectly. I got the chicken curry. It was wonderful! I never have had curry with pineapple and raisins in it but I loved if! And the tortilla chips instead of pompadoms was brilliant! We will go back, esp to try the carvery!

Hadn't had a meal in there for some time, had the 1/2 chicken and chips, it truely was enormous and extremely good value for your money plus excellent service.There also is an excellent carvery which we've recently used.

Just spent a lovely weekend with family celebrating my daughters engagement. Spent a night at the travellers friend really comfy beds / rooms brilliant full sized freshly cooked breakfast, lovely quite area, very welcoming greeting look forward to staying again and perhaps this time staying for their carvery. Well done.

We eat here regularly. Good honest pub food freshly cooked to order. Includes spicy and vegetarian options. Large children's play area and garden - and best of all the smoking area is the other side of the pub. Sit in the main pub or airy conservatory. Plenty of parking and nearby walks. Well worth a trip out of Newbury or Thatcham.

Can recommend the Sunday roast and friendly service easy to park but must get there early as it soon fills up also the beer is good.