Old Downton Lodge - CRAVEN ARMS

A beautiful converted barn served as a lounge area where we were warmly welcomed by all employees. We didn't feel worse in any way because we were not residents! My favorite start (Tanqueray 10 was served with a piece of grapefruit instead of the usual lime or lemon: a small but effective detail that was to be one of the brands of this fine restaurant, along with the menu card with our last name, the table in a quiet corner, as I had requested in my booking, the courtesy call the day before to check on any diet requirements that friendly... The main dining hall felt medieval or baronial with beautiful triangular Dovecote holes in the stone walls (if that is what they were, tapisseries hanging and a seating plan that gave plenty of space between the diners. We chose the 6 course tasting menu, and I had the flight of wines to accompany with my wife who holds water as a designated driver. Each course was exquisite and well paired with the wines. I especially enjoyed the Lebanese Chateau Musar with the Wagyu and the Pinot Noir with the pork, which was all beautifully explained by the waitresses. We spent a total of £200 for an excellent culinary, social and architectural experience; much could think, but how fine food is that is very good. Often you pay much for really nice food only for being pampered by waiting, sitting or ambience; but not here. My wife and I are not often fine diners, but we have experienced enough (in Cambridge and London to know that Old Downton deserves to be more known than its remote location could dictate. Only two small improvements. The background music on arrival in the dining room (50s jazz I think did not add the medieval ambience and the Decaf coffee we had at the end were not up to the high standard of the rest of the evening (taste as “instant”. But forgive this Ni Picking. Overall, the experience was fantastic.

A fantastic meal in a stunning restaurant. Karl and the team should be very proud of what they do.

Absolutely fantastic place that seemed sun when we sat in a beautifully landscaped cemetery, almost like individual garden areas. The room was very tasteful and finished to a high standard. The food was great and there was time to talk to us through the wine flight, as this is not our area if the expertise. I couldn't find anything to blame!

Exceptional food a very talented chef... Wine flight could be upgraded (and price increased accordingly to match the quality of the food). It was very good value for money but I think the amazing food could benefit from a fine wine flight ...

Delicious tasting menu with unusual foods. Presentation of food was amazing. Service excellent. Small dining room created a lovely atmosphere.