The Old Vol

Tucked into the village of Caythorpe, The Old Vol brings modern polish to countryside charm.

This two AA Rosette-awarded gastropub sets a confident tone: seasonal Nottinghamshire produce, an elevated hand in the kitchen, and the easy warmth of a true local. It is at once inviting and refined, the sort of place where a quiet pint can segue into a lingering meal.

The cooking is rooted in British comfort with a cosmopolitan wink. A gooey baked camembert with onion chutney and toasted focaccia is made for sharing, while buttermilk fried chicken sparks with pineapple hot sauce and watermelon. From the fryer, prawn tempura meets yuzu mayo and fennel; from the stove, pork fillet finds poise beside parmesan and lemon polenta, Parma ham, and rainbow chard. The grill has gravitas too, from a 10oz rump cap steak with minted ratte potatoes to a 30oz dry-aged côte de boeuf for two.

House signatures nod to pub nostalgia done right: The Old Vol burger, layered with beer-braised beef brisket and Monterey Jack, and the fish and chips with triple-cooked chips and pea and mint crush. To finish, think lemon posset with rhubarb compote or chocolate crèmeux with hazelnut praline. Even the young volunteers are well looked after.

For cosy suppers, celebratory tables, or a well-spent Sunday, The Old Vol delivers village spirit with gastronomic flair. Book a seat and let the rosettes do the talking, fork by glorious fork.