The Woodlands, Rickleton — Restaurant in Sunderland

We're not from this area and literally googled pubs near our location, after shopping in the Washington area. I can only assume that the 4.5 stars were from the previous owner. This has apparently been under new management for 6 weeks and our experience was atrocious, I'd have given zero stars if it was an option, I wouldn't recommend at all I'm afraid. We came in to an empty pub, apart from the staff. It took over an hour to makes 6 meals, which included a bacon sandwich and childrens meal. 4 of us ate while the other two waited. We were all finished before the last two meals came out, so we didn't technically eat together. The 8oz gammon steak was no more than a thick piece of bacon, the big boy breakfast didn't have all the ingredients needed to make one and wasn't worth the wait at all. The chips were left because they tasted like they were three days old and the mince and dumplings were so greasy that the two people who were left waiting, actually left the meals!!!! When asked if everything was ok we relayed everything I've said here but there was no offer of a refund and simply said "sorry about that" which really didn't cut it. I'd steer clear until the new management get a handle on running a pub where they serve food. Childrens play area is ok so that's the only plus for us. Not worth the wait or the money we...

Absolutely diabolical. The place stank of smoke and that was just the from what I can only assume is the owner, walking around with a hat that doesn’t fit on her big head. Christmas dinner was absolutely disgusting. A microwaveable turkey dinner at best, at least the ASDA one would have been in date. ASDA’s complimentary smart price Coffee too. Avoid this woman and her business at all costs. She is a con artist. Clearly drugs are being done in the toilets too. My 10 year old daughter asking me what powder was on the sink? It’s an absolute disgrace. This woman needs jailed immediately

IN RESPONSE TO THE OWNER: I was a paying customer to your...

Christmas lunch was a let down. £55 for no welcome drink as offered. The starters were warmed up soup, from a tin. Mains was 2 wafer thin slices of lamb that you bounce off the table it was so dry and a plate of veggies. Dessert was shop bought icecream and cookies. Didn't get the coffee after as promised......this pub/restaurant really was the Grinch that stole Christmas. Saw they could make a quick profit and couldn't deliver...