The Kings Arms — Restaurant in Dacorum

We arrived at 12pm when they had just opened, it was a cold day and the pub was just as cold inside sadly, we were expecting a warm cosy feel with fireplaces etc but this was not the case. Perhaps the heating had not fired up as they had just opened so we were able to understand that. However, the reception we received from the two ladies who worked there (older lady with glasses and grey bob hair and the lady with grey dreadlocks) was about as cold as the temperature. No warmth at all, we just felt unwelcome and as if we shouldn’t be there. Certainly not service with a smile, when we asked if they had some gravy to accompany our food, it was as if it were too much trouble. It’s a real shame, as the food itself was very tasty and home made which is impressive and rare for pubs these days. My only criticism was the cheese and potato pie we had was very dry inside (big chunks of boiled potato and not enough white sauce), hence our request for gravy. It’s a terrible shame that the staff were not friendly I.e definitely no service with a smile. Pubs in the UK are a dying breed, they rely on customers and you’d think they’d value custom and appreciate footfall. I can see that all the other reviews seem very positive, even citing “friendly staff”. Perhaps, therefore, we can presume and conclude that the reception we received may well be because we were a multicultural family of mixed races. If you’re a person of colour, you ‘just know’ when you’re not welcome. Damn shame...

Firstly visiting this place in the back streets requires the premise that their is no car park & that it's extremely busy...then the building itself is a beautiful corner plot with a nice stone pillared imposing main entrance. Outside is a lovely cobbled courtyard area steeped in history. A gin distillery on one side & a restaurant overspill function room on the other. Benched tables run the length of the garden with the area being a sun trap in summer & very popular. Having been to this place on occasion to participate in the odd ale over the years, it was finally time to try the food that I had witnessed in days gone by. They did not disappoint.....if you want to have the Sunday roast, it is advisable to book in advance( preferably a week)it's that busy. They offer a small plate choice or regular size. If you want dessert, have the small plate, as by the time you have added the beautifully creamy cauliflower cheese, you will have more than enough on your plate. The meal itself is perfection personified. Roast meat of your choice, roast potatoes, parsnips, carrots, red cabbage,etc. Mint sauce & horseradish to compliment. The lovely couple who run this place know their stuff... you will not be disappointed. I can not recommend this place...

Today was my third visit - always for the excellent beer. What a fantastic pub! The staff are brilliant. The food looks delicious, and the menu looks reasonably priced.

On my first visit, following a 7 mile ramble through the Chilterns, I enjoyed several beers but left my bag behind. A quick phone call ensured the bag was safe, and 3 months later, I went back for several more beers and to collect my bag.

Today, after another 7 mile ramble, we were back. Same excellent staff, with a couple of new faces. I'll be back in 3...