The Pelican, Froxfield, Marlborough

After reading that new licensees had taken over at The Pelican Inn in the village of Froxfield near Marlborough, we decided to give it a try.

The Pelican dates back to the 18th century and is the only survivor of three coaching inns in the village serving travellers between London and Bath.

Landlords Tom (a trained chef) and Jen Sunley have prided themselves on turning the Pelican back into a traditional pub. Inside, it is spacious, clean and cosy.

The bar has flagstone and wooden floors, ideal for walkers and dogs. In fact, the landlords encourage walkers to use their car parks then return for refreshments. The pub is a short stroll from the Kennet and Avon Canal.

The restaurant has three separate areas and a double-sided log burner.

Keith fancied the paprika crusted whitebait to start but sadly it had sold out. Instead he had spicy chicken brochettes served on a tomato and summer herb salad (£5.95). The chicken pieces looked burnt to me but Keith assured me they were fine – nice and spicy, he said.

The soup of the day (£4.95) was carrot and coriander, one of my favourites.

While the consistency and the flavour were perfect, it was too hot. It took far too long to eat, with me blowing virtually every spoonful to cool it down.

For mains I chose chicken wrapped in smoked bacon stuffed with mozzarella and basil (£12.95). It was served with crushed potatoes, fine beans and a red pepper and balsamic coulis.

The chicken was tender and the other ingredients complemented it superbly.

Keith chose lamb shank from the specials board (£14.95). This came with creamy mash potatoes and vegetables.

The lamb fell off the bone, the mash was moreish and the vegetables well cooked.

Both meals were well presented hearty portions. The choice of desserts was tempting but we could not eat any more. The staff were friendly and service was prompt.

Including a cider and Coca Cola, our bill came to £45.30.

We left feeling satisfied and with the intention of revisiting during the day so we could combine it with a walk.

Open all day.
Food served lunchtimes and evenings every day.
Children welcome.
Specials.
Two large car parks.
Free wi-fi.

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