We love pie, really, really, love pie, so when we saw pie on the menu on a meal out with friends it was inevitable.  (I should point out however that we only eat pie if it’s proper pie. Stew with a hat on does not constitute a pie in Mr Frivolitea’s world).

We’d never visited the Blacksmith Arms before despite it being not too far from where we live. Our friends suggested it for a meal out and I am so glad they did, and three of the four of us had pie.

I chose the chicken and ham pie from the specials board:

Mr Frivolitea chose the steak and ale pie:

The pastry was superb, the pie did not skimp on fillings and the meat was top quality. The vegetables and chips were cooked to perfection.

My only slight criticism, which would not be a criticism for many, would be that the pie was too big, I simply couldn’t finish it and desperately wanted to!

I couldn’t manage pudding after all that pie but the others did. Mr Frivolitea opted for the dark chocolate fondant despite its 15 minute wait time. He confirmed that it was definitely worth the wait, rich and delightfuly squidgy.

Our friends had the specials board pudding, vanilla panacotta with an apple crumble topping and apple sorbet. The apple sorbet was a particular hit.

I did hesitate before writing this blog. The food here was so good that I wanted to keep it to myself!

I can’t recommend this place enough. The food was of top quality, the pub cosy and inviting, and the staff really helpful and friendly. It’s clear that the Blacksmith Arms take huge pride in what they do.

We will definitely be back. A lot.