The Blue Bell Cider House, Hockley Heath

I've mixed feelings about the Blue Bell. It sells real cider - always a novelty this far north. It's popular - a good sign in itself, plus it means the cider is fresh. But the decor is dated, and the three parts of the pub (bar, lounge & conservatory) feel disconnected. I visited on a Monday evening hoping to grab some food to accompany the cider. The place was busy, but the surly barwoman just grunted 'don't do food on a Monday or Tuesday' when I enquired. No reason, no apology - bit mysterious really (given how busy it was). I didn't bother pointing out that food service times on the website might be a good idea. Still had a good pint of Thatcher's, then went on in search of food. A bit of love, a bit of service, put the customer first and my rating would jump up.

26 Oct 2011 22:11