The Walnut Tree Inn Mere

A very disappointing family carvery lunch. We received a call to confirm our reservation 15 mins prior to our arrival and when we arrived front of house couldn’t find our booking and kept us waiting with 2 small children whilst she kept on saying I can’t find you and then left us waiting while she went off to ask somebody . The walnut wasn’t busy so I’m really not sure why we just could be seated whilst this was sorted. We ordered Our drinks which came out wrong and had to be sent back . I know we had a later reservation but the food was poor, the meat had been pre cut in the kitchen and was brought out already sliced and it was thin cuts and cold, there was no white meat choice. The cauliflower cheese was like mush and there were empty dishes where food had obviously sold out. What was left was over cooked sprouts cubed roast parsnips, crumbled stuffing but the potatoes were nice but all the food was only warm but was saved by the hot gravy. We ordered a scoop of chocolate ice cream for one of the children, when this came we ordered another one. After 15 mins we had to ask where it was and then a further 5 mins before it came, without the chocolate sauce! It wasn’t busy and to be honest how long does it take to put a scoop of ice cream in a bowl. The new owners were about but I would say that the majority of the staff had an average age of about 18, we didn’t have any member of staff come and ask us how our meal was so we paid we just left nobody noticed. When we got home we checked our bill and the drink that we didn’t order was charged to the bill . Should have checked it !

My husband and I booked an overnight stay in the Walnut Tree at the last minute on our way home from visiting friends. What a great decision! The room was very comfortable and although you can hear the early morning traffic, it wasn’t a problem for us. Everything about our stay was just lovely. Evening meal, breakfast and staff all excellent. Would definitely recommend.