The Portland Arms

We took our two young children here for a traditional sunday lunch and had a very good experience. Very generous portions at good prices, with a smaller roast option for the children. Lamb was lovely, and there were piles of fresh vegetables - some better cooked than others, but there was so much you could ignore the soggier bits. We were given large jugs of fresh gravy which truly were home-made. Big smiles from the staff and regulars. A short walk to verulamium park so a good option for a family lunch out. The carpet a bit mad for my taste - boards may be better? Looks like the log fire is used a lot on cool evenings and would make it very cosy. Looks like they support local musicians too so well worth going again. [Mar 09]

A pal randomly chose the Portland Arms for a midweek lad's night out, and I think he chose pretty well. It's a short walk from town, but with ample (free!) parking for those coming from further afield. First impressions of the interior are of a typical city suburbs pub.  It's only when you look at the details - wasabi nuts as snacks are a touch more exotic than your usual dry roast!  - you realise this is a town boozer with a bit more going for it.  A good range of real ales were on offer for the real ale fans and the food looked pretty decent too (although I didn't partake). The pub was pretty quiet for a Thursday night, but then again we could pick and choose seats, and there was no music to shout over. All in all a pretty good choice for a night out with the lads. [Oct 08]