Aikton Arms — Restaurant in England

Advertised as a friendly pub but maybe that only applies to locals. Walked into an empty pub to be greeted by an elderly woman asking if we'd booked. No we hadn't. We assumed due to the storm and the posts regarding how empty they had been they would welcome the custom. Pub was empty except for one couple with a dog. Woman said you'll have to sit there and pointed to a random round table in the middle of the room right next to the couple with the dog. It was so close the dog could jump on my knee. Didn't really mind the dog it was quite cute but some people don't like dogs. Fish and chips were ok just standard, didn't bother with pudding as didn't feel comfortable or welcome. In the time we had our food none of the other surrounding tables were filled. They had just been set with a knife and fork.... Is it hard to rewipe a table and put a clean knife and fork down? When some people did start coming in, we were sat right in the freezing cold draught from the front door opening and it was just silly. Certainly not a comfortable environment to get more drinks or a pudding. Maybe just an off day but in this current situation you can't afford to...

After a busy day my partner and I decided to go out for dinner and wanted to go somewhere with a nice friendly atmosphere and relaxing natural views so a friend suggested The Aikton Arms. The establishment, atmosphere and staff were extremely friendly, warm and welcoming and we could feel ourselves unwinding from the moment we arrived. The service was first class with very experienced, professional and attentive staff. Nothing was to much. We were greeted, served our drinks and shown to our table within 2mins of entering the bar. The lady who took our order was very professional and knowledgeable about their menu regarding the various options like vegan, vegetarian, dairy, gluten and allergies. The food was obviously freshly homemade with very good quality ingredients and was full of flavour. The servings were very generous and great value for money. We will DEFINITELY be returning to The Aikton Arms again very soon and I highly recommend that if you already haven't been there then you should as you will not be...

Called in for a drink when passing, (dogs welcome) menu looked good so booked for evening meal the following Thursday (only open Thursday, Friday Saturday and Sunday), good choice of meals on offer including several vegetarian options, we don't eat meat so went for one battered cauliflower, peas and chips and one macaroni cheese, baked beans (home made, so had to give them a try) and chips followed by one sticky toffee pudding with ice cream and one plumb Eton mess, excellent value, no complaints with food, drinks or service, all staff were friendly and so were the locals we spoke to. The bar / restaurant is large and spacious, option to sit outside if the weather is nice, also has an enclosed area for kids to play. Would definitely recommend calling in for a meal if you're in the area. It was busy when we were there, so it's probably worth...