Tollgate Inn

Ham Green

Holt

BA14 6PX

01225 782326

On-site accommodation

Monthly events

Free Wi-Fi

Free private parking

AFTER a long day of work, I was looking for a warm and friendly place to grab a bite to eat and on my way home; I decided to pop in to the Tollgate Inn at Holt.

If you’re not familiar with the 16th century pub, navigating your way there could be considered difficult but as a firm favourite, I managed to find my way there easily entering the free car park from the Holt Road.

As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by the most welcoming staff and owners Mark and Laura Hodges which really does put you at ease when picking a table.

After having a quick natter to a couple of the locals, I convened to a table in the main restaurant area downstairs and ordered a coke to quench my thirst.

When I arrived, it was only 6pm which gave me a whole half hour to ponder over the choices on the surprisingly gourmet menu. My only criticism of the place is that food isn’t served until 6.30pm and with a meeting at 7pm I was concerned that I wouldn’t make it.

I opted for the classically simple beer battered fish and chips served with a pea puree and tartar sauce.

The food arrived on a wooden board which was a nice touch and once I dug in, the fish was beautifully fresh and moist. The chunky chips were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside which is how the perfect chip should be.

The most surprising thing about the meal was the pea puree. I’m not a huge lover of mushy peas but it was incredibly moorish and I would have gladly ate an entire serving of it.

As I was pushed for time, I wasn’t able to order a desert but I would definitely venture back to try them or even their range of daily specials.

My meal came to a total of £12.50 which I thought was very reasonable for the portion and quality.