Hoghton: Boars Head

4:34pm Monday 14th July 2008

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THE Boars Head is yet another establishment to have undergone a transformation.

With historic Hoghton Tower virtually next door and open fields in front of it, this large, stone pub has to be in one of the nicer settings.

Inside it retains a country feel with different seating areas for diners to choose from.

It was pretty quiet when we visited midweek, initially we were the only diners, but good company can always create its own good atmosphere.

The menu is traditional classic pub fare with daily specials chalked up on a board.

Fish and chips is always a good test of a kitchen’s abilities to do the simple things well so that was my choice while the better half went for a ‘light bite’ version of another classic — scampi and chips.

If you have a weedy appetite then you’re just going to be overwhelmed by the portions served up at the Boars Head.

Don’t believe me? Well it was the first time I have ever had two fish served up with chips and mushy peas! The fish was moist and the batter fairly light although a little crispy at the edges. But at £7.95 it was still pretty good value.

And if the scampi dish was a ‘lite’ version, I’d hate to think what the ‘heavy’ one would be like! Again at £5.95 it was pretty good value, the scampi wasn’t overcooked and the accompanying salad was much more than the usual lettuce and tomato.

A number of signs around the place indicate that the Boars Head has a range of themed nights during the week with quizzes and the like which perhaps creates a livelier atmosphere than we experienced.

If it’s fine dining you’re after then the Boars Head isn’t for you. But that’s not what it is trying to offer.

What you will get are hearty platefuls of old fashioned pub grub. Just make sure you’ve worked up an appetite.

The verdict

SIzeable portions will suit those with hearty appetites