Digest this mini review in 60 seconds
Venue
Refurbished and reopened in 2014 after a major development, the Hornsmill is named after the old flour mill which stood near the Horns Mill Bridge in c1850. The mill was one of only a small number of Cheshire mills to have both a windmill and a watermill. Today the cosy pub is complete with roaring fires, a spacious terraced area and well stocked bar, making it an appealing destination all year round.
Menu
At first glance, the menu features all of the pub classics: a range of burgers, pies, scampi and steaks. But upon closer inspection you can see that the food offering at the Hornsmill is a step up from your average pub, with dishes such as tandoori spiced fillet of sea bass and Vietnamese squash curry, and a healthy offering of vegetarian and vegan options. For starters, I decided to go for the confit duck leg (£7.50) with braised puy lentils and red wine, and my friend opted for the stilton and garlic cream mushrooms (£6.95) served with rosemary and sea salt focaccia. The portions were of a good size and the duck, which was incredibly tender and flavorsome, could have passed for a main course. The actual main courses soon arrived; my choice the crisp Hydes beer-battered fresh fish fillet (£12.25) with hand-cut chips, mushy peas and the addition of curry sauce and thick slice of buttered bloomer (£3.10 extra). I always judge fish and chips by the mushy peas, and they passed the test. The fish was effortlessly flaky, the batter perfectly crisp and the chips spot on. It was like having a better version of your favourite chippy tea. My friend enjoyed hand pressed british beef burger (£11.95) topped with stilton and onions (£3.10 extra), served with hand-cut chips. She commented on how well the burger was seasoned, with a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Unfortunately not even one of the pub’s mini puddings could tempt us, so we left full and satisfied.
Service
Friendly and attentive
Cost
The above with a few soft drinks came to £51.94
The Hornsmill, Chester Road, Hapsford, Helsby, WA6 0JE
Tel: 01928 727223 www.thehornsmill.co.uk
