Ploughman’s Lunch at The lamb Inn, Axbridge reviewed
Location –
The Lamb Inn
The Square,
Axbridge,
BS26 2AP
0193 473 2253
Website – https://butcombe.com/the-lamb/
Date of Visit – 01/06/2015
Update – 06/10/2024. Sadly, the ploughmans lunch is not currently avaialble here. This might be a winter menu thing, and it may return so check the website which seems very informative. However, there is a childrens ploughman’s lunch, so even though you may not be able to enjoy this embodyment of Somerset there is opportunity to educate future generations. All other food here is highly recommended.
The Food.
8 – Pickled Onion. The pickled onion is really only a 6, however, there was also a most delightful pickled gherkin that complimented the ham wonderfully and boosted this considerably.
10 – Pickle. Of local construction, just perfect. Buy a jar! Tasted like some picked tried previously in Cheddar.
10 – Cheese / Ham. Unbelievable selection of local goodies. I had cave matured vintage Cheddar (from Cheddar – proper job), Somerset Brie & local Ham. There was also Pork Pie, and Stilton available but this was untested. The quantities supplied were generous too, this will be almost impossible to beat. All five options (Cheddar, Brie, Stilton, Ham & Pork Pie) could be had separately, or in combination in the Deluxe.
8 – Bread. Bread was good. Crusty baguette, possibly a Par-bake, but good taste and texture.
4 – Spread (better be butter, or a choice). Packet butter, but good taste and temperature.
5 – Presentation – Top presentation. Photo speaks for itself.
5 – Salad. Top quality Salad, fresh and just the right amount. Included an half apple.
5 – Originality. Nicely presented, especially the wooden serving board – but this is all fine as this was a great ploughmans. Got to be maximum marks for genuine Cheddar.
Food total: 55
Beverages
10 – Assorted. I had bitter shandy on this visit, but the selection of drinks were very good. On a later visit I later tried the Thatchers original – proper scrumpy and the stuff that should be drunk with this dish. (way better than Thatchers Gold, I have oppinions on that stuff). However, try a half if your not used to it – it might not be to your taste, and it might give you cider legs.
Drinks Total: 9
The venue
9 – Service. The service was very good, especially for a busy pub. All the food came out reasonably promptly (as much of it is cooked to order) , hot, fresh and all delivered by very competent and friendly staff. If you are inclined to tip, this is the place to do it.
10 – Atmosphere. Although owned by Butcombe brewery, it has the feel of a free house. Good range of food, drink and activities, and besides being a bit of a visitor magnate, seems very much the centre of the community. The building itself is a delight, one of those grand old pubs with centuries of history, and rooms rambling off here and there. Lovely terraced garden (a bit of a clamber), A nice, sheltered smoking area (not in the way of other patrons, so all can relax) and table out the front where the view of the market place is quite hard to beat, whilst watching the world go by.
5 – Location. Amazing old market town location, the stuff of postcards.
4 – Toilets. Period or vintage, but very clean and functional. Nice to have a bit of character, whilst being the pinnacle of hygiene.
Venue total: 28
Total Score: 92
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