Formerly a mill, The Vine Tree pub in Norton is perfectly placed at the heart of its peaceful parish and makes the ideal spot to stop for lunch or dinner. From its handy position there are plenty of local walks to take advantage of before or after your meal, and kids and dogs are all welcome. Essentially, whatever you’re wearing and whoever you’re with, there’ll be a warm reception here for you.
When it comes to the main menu there’s a careful balance of crowd-pleasing pub classics alongside some more unusual combinations. For starters choices range from a comforting chorizo Scotch egg through to a smoky twice baked Cheddar souffle. Mains bring a triple layered Wagyu beef burger (topped with gherkins, tomato and crispy onions); a wonderfully rich cep risotto finished with truffle oil and a luxurious langoustine bouillabaisse. For something really substantial, the T-bone steak isn’t to be missed, which comes served with herb fries and a mixed salad as well as the option to add a mushroom or peppercorn sauce. Regular specials ensure there’s always something new to try on subsequent visits, and a range of failsafe sides completes the savoury section.
Come Sunday there are of course roast dinners with all the trimmings, as well as a whole run of starters and sides reserved for the day of rest. Veggies are catered for with a nut roast and garlic sauce, while meat eaters typically have the choice of beef or pork.
Puddings are comfortingly familiar and include an indulgent sticky toffee pudding, a baked lemon cheesecake and a carefully curated cheeseboard piled high with British cheeses and quince jelly.
The warm wooden interiors complete with a cosy wood burner and higgledy-piggledy décor makes this feel like a true British pub – the perfect place to kick back and relax for a few hours.