The Horseshoe Inn, Mildenhall, near Marlborough, SN8 2LR.

(01672) 514725

We would normally be snuggled up on the sofa under a throw watching TV on a cold midweek evening but we decided to go out for a meal.

We visited the Horseshoe Inn at Mildenhall which was quiet when we arrived but we were greeted warmly by landlady Pam Desmond. We sat in the bar although there is a formal dining room.

Mrs Desmond, who took over the pub with her husband, John, 11 years ago, brought a candle to our table to add to the cosy ambience.

There were nine starters ranging in price from £1.95 to £5.95. I went for leek and potato soup with crusty bread. It was a blended soup, not the chunky version I cook, but it had flavour and the seasoning was spot on.

Keith chose the seafood platter, which comprised smoked salmon, prawns, crayfish tails, served with bread, salad, mayonnaise and a wedge of lemon. The fish was fresh and succulent and he declared it superb.

Most of the main courses were under a tenner but we treated ourselves to two of the specials. Keith opted for Aberdeen Angus sirloin steak topped with a Shropshire blue cheese sauce (£13.95) and I chose grilled local lamb cutlets (£11.95).

Both dishes were served with saute potatoes, broccoli, carrots and cabbage.

Keith had never had steak with a cheese sauce, and declared it a delicious combination. My lamb was tender and the vegetables cooked to perfection.

The meal was accompanied by a red wine and damson sauce, a combination I had not tasted before, which had a fruity tang. The only criticism I had was there wasn’t enough of it.

For dessert I chose chocolate sponge pudding with cream while Keith had cheese and biscuits. The presentation of both was sublime.

Keith’s platter was on a large board with a choice of crackers, brie, cheddar and Stilton plus grapes.

My dessert was elegantly presented in a bowl. Gooey chocolate topped a warm and light sponge, piped cream decorated the base, all finished off with a sprinkling of chocolate.

The bill, which included soft drinks, was £50.80.

Large car park at rear

Disabled access at front

Food served daily noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm

Children welcome

Outdoor tables

Real ales

Our Eating Out is an independent review carried out by the Gazette without prior knowledge of the owners.