The Black Bull

We stayed at the Black Bull using a buy a gift voucher we'd recieved for Christmas. We arrived at about 2pm and were greeted by the lovely pub manager 'Iain'. He gave us our key and directed us to the room (there is only one room). He explained that the pub didn't open until 5pm (it's a very small village) but was happy to give some suggestions for an open pub. The room was basic but clean. It could do with a little updating but they are very aware of this and it is next on their list. The bed was extremely comfortable and an oil heater was provided. Please remember this is a very old building so is more than likely listed so they will be restricted as to what they can do to it such as install double glazing but Iain will be more than happy to help make you more comfortable if you find it is too chilly. The pub was marvelous! Iain and the team are so friendly and welcoming. If they see you have an empty glass they'll come and collect it, ask you if you'd like another and then bring it over too you during quieter times. He certainly knows his trade and was able to answer even the most random of questions put to him. It had a beautiful fire which was kept going all evening and we noticed that as the locals walked in the door Iain had poured there favourite pint before they'd even made it too the bar. This service didn't stop at the locals though, we walked in the door on the second evening and he asked us if we wanted what we had before having remembered from the night before. The food was amazing, moreish and generously portioned. Complements to the chef (who we believe is also the landlord?) as all the meals we had were absolutely beautiful! Our breakfasts were delicious and they even made sure we had our black pudding (a must for us). Breakfast was cooked by the lovely Sue who is also the housekeeper who clearly takes pride in her job. Sometimes in small village pubs it can have a feeling resembling The Slaughtered Lamb but we never once felt this and in fact chose to spend our evenings in the pub rather than going elsewhere. We would highly recommend The Black Bull for staying, drinking and eating. A huge thank you to Iain and the team for making us do very welcome!

Passed this Inn many times over the years whilst working as a courier and whilst staying at Rutland Caravan and Motorhome site. Due to the more local pubs which were within local walking distance, unable to offer up Sunday lunch. I phoned the Black Bull, they were very friendly so I booked for Sunday dinner for my wife and myself. I can only say I'm glad I did as soon as we arrived we ordered some drinks and were shown to our table by a very pleasant young lady, our order was taken after being seated, after a very brief wait our food was served and both my wife and I commented about the ample portions and variety, hot and really tasty. The Roast veg of parsnips and roast potato's and glazed carrots were the best we've eaten, both the beef and pork were cooked to perfection and as for gravy, the only way to describe the taste was mind blowing. Would we come again? Too right, would we recommend Oh yes.

Very cramped and very basic. Don't look too closely at the carpets or cleanliness. I would have given it 1 star but breakfast was decent. Miles from Rutland water. I left a jumper there and despite me sending up postage paid packaging and Iain repeatedly saying he would send it back, he obviously couldn't be bothered.