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Crowning glory - The Rose and Crown, Ulnes Walton
One of the best things about the area that we live in is the country pub, away from the town centres and still thriving despite the credit crunch.
One such pub is the Rose and Crown on Southport Road, Ulnes Walton, given to me as my latest mission by the Guardian editor to review.
I knew where it was but at the age of 52 I have to admit I had never visited.
The evening Carole and I visited saw the pub busy with locals and the side gardens were well maintained providing al fresco dining if that appeals to you.
Not for me thanks, so Carole and I sat inside adjacent to the door allowing a cool breeze to keep us comfortable.
The menus were clean and nicely set out and the waitress took our drinks order whilst we were busy making our minds up.
The starter for me was soup. I love soup and homemade tomato and basil (3.75) is a particular favourite.
Carole selected hot garlic mushrooms (4.25) and we sat back taking in the surroundings.
On each table was a newsletter which at first glance looked like a CAMRA publication, but on closer inspection I found it was the Rose and Crown newsletter called 'The Local'.
It's probably one of the best pieces of marketing I have seen in a long time.
I work in that field so I know the things that should be included and this publication is very good.
It's informative without punching you between the eyes with pricing structures.
The Local includes news on live entertainment (most Saturday nights if you're interested), a paddock area for picnics, ongoing improvements and news that the pub will have bed and breakfast accommodation in the near future.
Carole and I were impressed with everything so far and the starters didn't disappoint. Well presented and everything was fresh too.
Time for the main course, and as I was due for a 'cholesterol dressing down' by my GP a couple of days later I opted for the 8oz ribeye steak with chips, mushrooms and peas (12), which was a real plate full.
My wife chose tiger prawn pasta with spaghetti (7.95). Carole asked whether she could have penne pasta instead of the spaghetti and the waitress said that wouldn't be a problem.
The pub was pretty busy at this stage and the waitress came over to tell us that we would be served within the next few minutes and gave us a drink each.
Goodwill at its best and 10/10 for keeping us updated. I hate sitting and wondering whether the chef has forgotten our order!
The main courses were outstanding and both Carole and I thought that the editor's decision to ask us to pay the Rose and Crown a visit was a good one.
There were plenty of desserts on offer but after two excellent courses it was time to raise the white flag.
The ambitious plans of Jo and Lee who run the pub will, I'm sure, pay off.
They have been at the pub for a little under 12 months and have obviously made massive strides in their first year.
The Rose and Crown is a community pub in every sense of the word. The newsletter advertises local businesses, but one thing struck me and is that it had a welcoming feel to the pub.
Ever been in one of those country pubs where they look at you as though you have just landed from Mars? Well done from me and YES I will return.
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Weather for Chorley
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
