Renovated in May 2019 after being closed for years, the Meynell Ingram Arms country pub in Staffordshire is a wonderful place to visit for dinner. This iconic pub is located in the beautiful village of Hoar Cross, in the Staffordshire Countryside.
The pub is located a villages from us and is walkable in around an hour and a half meaning we visit way more than we probably should. But when you find a place this good, it would be almost rude not to! There aren’t many pubs in Hoar Cross so if you’re in the area, don’t miss it!
Country Pub Style with a Contemporary Twist
The Meynell Ingram Arms is split into three main areas. The front bar which has a cosy vibe incorporating every country pub feature you could imagine. There are open fires, stone floors and intimate nooks for snuggling up. This is a good place for a relaxed sunday lunch or post hike drink.
Then there’s the main restaurant which definitely has a more upscale design. Furnishings are bright and modern and it’s my favourite when I fancy dressing up a bit for a special treat. Although this is Staffordshire – there’s no need to go mad! They have a wide range of seating options, quiet tables for couples, larger tables for families and booth style areas for bigger groups.
Finally you have Sams Bar. This is the place to come for sports night or a relaxed post work Friday wind down. There’s a fabulous pizza oven for when you get the munchies and they’ll do takeaway if you don’t fancy cooking when you get home.
Additionally the Meynell is home to a large outdoor area, perfect for soaking up any summer sun. During the winter months they have covered this area, opening an outdoor bar and adding cosy blankets and heaters. I’ll update this post with what they implement for winter 2020, it’s going to be a bit different this year.
They also have a few outdoor pods which accommodate up to six people for a meal. We’ve never been quick enough to book one yet but hopefully will be able to try one soon.
What to Eat at the Meynell Arms Hoar Cross
The menus at the Meynell change regularly but they are pretty immense. You should always find something you fancy. If you’re feeling hungry then the steaks and burgers are a great option, all carefully cooked and perfectly presented. They have an onsite pizza oven with loads of options for tasty toppings.
For when I’m after a light bite they have several salads to choose from and the starter/light bites are meals in themselves. If they ever make it back on to the menu, the cauliflower bhajis are to die for!
For those of you with a sweet tooth, the pudding menu is extensive. For a real crowd pleaser try the dessert pizza, rolled dough covered in nutella, marshmallows, white chocolate chips with fresh strawberries.
Sunday Lunch at the Meynell Ingram Arms
This is one of our favourite places for Sunday lunch in Staffordshire. Portions are absolutely huge, your choice of roast meat with all the trimmings is served with plenty of fresh vegetables. I’ll always polish off the cauliflower cheese whilst hubby is obsessed with the red cabbage. They’re always happy to serve kid sized roasts if you’re visiting with little ones. Make sure you save room for pudding!
Vegan and Vegetarian Options at the Meynell
The Meynell has a separate Vegan menu with options for Dairy and Gluten Free. Whilst not strictly vegan myself, I like to order off this menu at times. The Massamman Curried noodles which can be served with tofu are absolutely delicious and if I’m on a health kick, the Superfood Salad helps me stay on course.
Visiting the Meynell Arms Hoar Cross with dogs and kids
The Meynell again wins points for being super dog friendly. We regularly take walks around Hoar Cross or up to Jacksons Bank and pop in for dinner with Holly. Like all the best country pubs, the Meynell has a dog treats area with water, bowls and a jar of biscuits. Staff are always more than happy to come and say hello.
They’re also great at making kids feel super welcome and they have a separate children’s menu which includes a burger and sausage and mash, perfect for little tummies.
New Safety Measures at the Meynell Ingram Arms
I’ve been so impressed with new safety measure implemented this year to keep staff and customers safe. There’s a one way only system for entering and leaving the pub. Track and Trace QR codes at the door to check in and plenty of hand sanitiser stations around. You are no longer able to order drinks at the bar and will be assigned a table at the door. It is always best to book in advance to avoid dissapointment.
During busy times at the Meynell Arms Hoar Cross they have a health and safety officer to offer assistance and keep everyone safe. And they will limit numbers to ensure there is space enough for everyone. Menus and condiments are single use and everywhere gets an intense clean between seatings.
Meynell Ingram Arms useful information
Abbots Bromley Rd,
Hoar Cross,
Burton-on-Trent
DE13 8RB
Tel: 01283 575988
Meynell Arms Hoar Cross Email: info@meynellingram.co.uk
You’ll find plenty of parking spaces in the carpark outside the pub. Just turn in through the two stone dog sculptures. There are two electric car charging points in their carpark. You’ll need to order a key to use them.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 12:00 – 22:00
Restaurant Hours: Mon-Wed: 12:00 – 15:00 & 17:00 – 20:00. Thurs-Sun: 12:00 – 20:00
Hopefully I’ve convinced you that a visit to the Meynell Ingram Arms is well worth a trip out to the Staffordshire Countryside, it’s the perfect place for relaxed dining in a great setting.
The Meynell has made it onto my list of Staffordshires best country pubs. Make sure you check it out for more inspiration.
For more great pub food in the area check out the Red Lion at Newborough, another cosy country Inn.
And for a list of more great pubs in Staffordshire add this to your reading list.
