GREAT HAYWOOD.

Situated right near the Trent and Mersey canal, this is a real ale pub that delivers. The design is right out of the 1930s and remains so inside - until the plastic pub people get at it at least. This imposing pub has a beer garden to the left which has picnic benches for summer. Inside there is only one bar area as the other is a restaurant that does some very good food indeed. Food is served 12-2pm & 6pm-9pm daily. There is a children's menu for those with a smaller appetite. The beers are also provide a good selection of guest ales. All were in tip top condition and could be served without the sparkler on by request. The bare wooden floor in the bar is complimented by tall stools with arms by the bar and a mixture of tables and chairs plus leatherette style bench seating with deep padding. The bar itself is a dark wood affair with overhand and the walls are painted that yellowing colour so admired by pub painting folk. The atmosphere in here is good, though I'm surprised they don't stay open all day in summer as they are a 800 metre walk from the Shugborough Estate and people keep coming in and being told they are closed. Shame as it could earn good money from those it turns away. Well worth the walk over the canal bridge and the Norman style bridge over the river. A car park here as well. Can get smokey inside at times. The restaurant has carpet and more usual tables for 4-6 people. The decor is pleasant and the toilets are this side of the pub - though no disabled facilities, the doors are wide enough for wheelchair access.