The Old Swan and Minster Mill is like stepping back in time. There is a laid-back atmosphere and a friendly approach from the staff and the building if full of charm and character. It's been a feature of the Old Minster Village for over 600 years, and makes for a desirable escape in the Cotswolds.
It's a gastropub with a collection of different rooms and little snugs. Each room is designed differently and offers different surroundings, which is a nice touch. We dined in the Lovell room, a beautifully presented room with oak beams, oak flooring, and an interesting collection of art.
“The food was most enjoyable, as was the whole experience.”
We ordered a bottle of the De Gras Reserva Merlot Valle de Colchgua, Chile 2013 for the tabel;. A beautifully coloured red wine with a hint of spice and oak flavouring, a very good pairing with meat dishes. To begin we ordered the Salmon and Herb Fishcake, with sweet chilli sauce, and a wonderfully baked Tart with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes, Onion and Smoked Applewood Cheese. The fish was superb and a dish I would certainly recommend.
Our main course was something I was looking forward to because I really enjoy a well-baked pie. I ordered the Wychwood Forest Venison and Beef Pie with King Edward Mash. While my partner ordered the Oxfordshire Farm Sirloin Steak, with local Wild Mushrooms, Thrice Cooked Chips and Peppercorn Sauce. Two splendid dishes prepared perfectly, the meat in the pie was spot on. Very tender and full of flavour.
We didn't have a lot of space left for dessert but couldn’t resist, so we ordered the Vanilla Cheesecake with Berry Coulis, and a Caramelised Lemon Tart and Clotted Cream. Two delectable desserts to finish up an enjoyable evening.
The food was most enjoyable, as was the whole experience. A lovely countryside retreat, and somewhere we would stop again.
The Bill: £56 per head
