The Millstone Inn — Restaurant in South Kesteven

I wish I could say my experience at The Millstone was pleasant, but unfortunately, it missed the mark. My family and I decided to stop by for some afternoon drinks in the beer garden, which was mostly empty, save for a couple of other tables.

Right from the start, we encountered a rather sarcastic landlord, which set a negative tone. We tried to brush it off, thinking maybe he was just having a rough day. However, things took a turn when our little girls, aged 3 and 5, began playing quietly outside by the pizza shack, which was closed. The landlord approached them and told them they couldn't play and needed to sit down. (I attach some pictures of how quiet the pub was and also the pizza patio area where the girls were playing)

My wife and I were taken aback by his harshness. She politely inquired if there was an issue since the children were just being children. His response? That children must remain seated at all times and should not be allowed to walk around or play in the establishment.

At that point, we felt unwelcome and decided against ordering any food or further drinks. It’s disheartening to see such a lack of understanding towards children in a family-friendly environment. If you have children who can't sit still, I would advise looking for a more accommodating pub. The atmosphere here just isn't suitable for families.

Absolutely, it's disheartening when you want to support local businesses but encounter unwelcoming behavior, especially in family-friendly settings. The hospitality industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, and many of us appreciate the hard work of small businesses. However, it's crucial for these establishments to create an atmosphere where all customers, including families, feel comfortable and respected.

When families with young children are treated with indifference or hostility, it really diminish the overall experience. Supporting local means not only enjoying the food and drinks but also feeling valued as a customer.

It would be great to see The Millstone embrace a more welcoming approach to families, recognising that children are part of the vibrant...

Since the pub has gone under new management, and following a lunch there today, I'd like to say;

1. The new ambiance is lovely. Subtle, beautifully coordinated, modern, cozy, Raised our expectations of the food to come.

2. The staff are unfortunately not at all knowledgeable on the menus presented. "I don't know what that is .... [ Long pregnant pause] ... Would you like me to find out?". Seriously. Ya think? Once ordered the service was quick and efficient. Handing out 2 identical set of cutlery and napkins at the start of the meal before we had received anything was an novel use of the space on our small table. Maybe that's the way gastro pubs do it now... (Not). I'd also say that I was very confused why my request to pay the bill took the time it did. More than 4 members of staff for 4 covers ( that I could see) should have enabled Mechelen levels of attention. :-)

3. The food was OK. For a gastro pub with such a pricey menu, OK is a disappointment. The duck was chewy and the potatoes a tad undercooked. The poached fish was stunning but the mushroom in cream sauce ( they use longer names for everything) reminded me of the sauce my mum cooked at home in the 70s.

So, in summary, the location, atmosphere and ambiance of the place promises much. The service and food let it down.

Probably won't be going back as there are so many great gastro pubs in the area.

But you never know... The owners are new ( opened in July I think) and maybe they need time to bed in. Hope they do as they are...

We came in here for one drink whilst waiting for a taxi

FIRST IMPRESSIONS The outside of the building is beautiful and old. As soon as you go inside, it is awful. There is vinyl flooring, a TV and new horrible looking tables and chairs. It doesn't match with the architecture AT ALL.

SERVICE This was absolutely fine.

VIBE I felt slightly scared in this pub if i'm being honest and I would have really liked to write a TripAdvisor review but they don't seem to be on there (not sure why).

Everyone in there was very agro (someone walked past my friend and shouted "CALM DOWN MATE, CALM DOWN" and then a girl walked behind him and said "OWWWW HE JUST HIT ME IN THE F*ING FACE" (which he categorically did not).

We were in there for 10 minutes and I would literally NEVER go in here again.

Whoever has taken over this pub and has been allowed to decorate it like it has been seriously needs to be spoken to by the landlord. This place seems to attract cocaine snorting chavvy vile people who are unnecessarily stressy.

I honestly am at a...