Royal Oak, Stafford

This takes some getting to... about 20mins drive down some mental country lanes. I was here for the walking - in absolutely appalling conditions. When I returned to the village, I did not expect the place to be open in the first outdoor only easing of lockdown 3 (or where-ever we are now). But there was a little marquee with tinkling lights on and when I saw that this was a Woods House - I thought I would chance my arm. At 2pm, I was the first and only customer of their day (so far). Nearly scared the barkeep half to death on seeing if they were open. They were, and the Woods Born N Bred was in perfect condition. A 10/10 from me for their perseverance in keeping going, even in the most trying of times.

A detached white painted brick cottage styled pub/eatery with front extensions and patio, the extensions make the pub look newer than it actually is. The interior has two rooms – well, two doors left and right when you go in, but these have actually been knocked through into one room. To the right, there is a pool table, dart board and bar area. To the left there is a lounge and bar area, with the extensions used as a dining area. The decor is a cream and wood panel, with a white artexy ceiling. The large brick fireplace in the lounge did in fact house a piano. The pictures were a mix of traditional and modern and there were a few jugs and things as ephemera. We didn’t eat but the food prices were very reasonable. The service was very friendly as were the mixed clientele, a village pub where you were made to feel welcome. There was a TV, but it wasn’t on and the background music was general and at a decent level. Beer; usual tap stuff, with handpulls for Banks’s Bitter and Wincle Brewery’s Undertaker and Sir Philip, both of which were class. One handpull wasn’t on but on the way out i noticed the board had anther few beers listed, so whether they were coming on, or on pulls i didn’t see, i couldn’t say. An excellent experience all round. I really enjoyed this place and can’t wait for the Soupettes to go on holiday again, so Mrs Soup will drive me back up. A must do if you are anywhere near, the likelihood is of course, you won’t be. Quality.