The Abbey Field, Kenilworth

Superficially attractive old High Street inn, although the slightly split-level interior has been refurbished in a rather unsympathetic way. Apart from that, the various seating and dining areas are much as you would expect from the Chef & Brewer chain (although the front part by the bar is definitely more pub than restaurant). As part of the Greene King group, it was no surprise to find its IPA and Abbot (£5.20) on two of the four handpumps, with Lilley's Mango cider on another.

Official site of The Abbey Field - www.chefandbrewer.com

Official site of The Abbey Field - www.chefandbrewer.com

I made a return visit to Kenilworth midweek to try again to visit pubs that had been closed during my last visit, when it had been outdoor drinking only. In fairness, I don't recall having this one on my list last time. So, it may actually have been open. In terms of outdoor drinking, there were only a handful of tables and chairs on the pavement, but there was perhaps a further seating area at the rear. This establishment was last in the Good Beer Guide in 2003 when called the Clarendon House Hotel. It has subsequently become part of the Greene King-owned Chef & Brewer chain, with a spell as a seafood restaurant in between. Abbey Fields is the name of a large park nearby. With an uninspiring choice of Abbot or Tribute, it has more the feel of a hotel than a pub and I do believe that you can stay here. On my midweek afternoon visit, there were a mix of customers. One drinker was reading a newspaper, another couple were finishing lunch, whilst a couple of ladies outside were drinking tea or coffee. Talking of cups of tea, it's not really mine.

This used to be the Loch Fyne restaurant but is now part of the Chef & Brewer chain. Nicely done inside. Greene King beers.