The Woolpack, Elstead

I came here yesterday Sunday lunchtime with my walking group of 12. The table had been reserved for us. However it was clear to me that we were a bit of a problem. The man behind the bar with the earrings was clearly put out and told us all brusquely to sit down at our allocated table when our orders would be taken. When a lady came to take our orders and realised we'd be paying separately she then instructed us to go to the bar to order !
I do go to quite a few pubs and restaurants in Surrey and have never had such an appalling welcome. I left and joined the rest of group in The Golden Fleece across the road. How lucky I was as I wouldn't usually opt for a Thai lunch however it was fantastic and served by such lovely efficient and most importantly welcoming staff.

10 Jan 2011 20:25

The Golden Fleece, Elstead

I came here with my local walking group yesterday lunchtime on Sunday. Wow what a find !! There must have been at least 35 of us and well over the number that I'm sure our walks leader had reserved the table for. Nothing was too much trouble. The girls who served us were very efficient and the food was served quickly. I have to say this is the best Thai food I have ever had in the UK. I had the duck with pineapple and coconut rice which was absolutely mouth watering and I shall be returning soon. I understand the chef is Thai. Say no more ! I was initially instructed to eat in the other pub The Woolpack as our small group of 12 ended up being the last to arrive and as we were 50 in total we did not want to overwhelm the The Golden Fleece. I lasted 2 minutes in The Woolpack as I felt we were not greeted with a welcome at all. (See my comments under The Woolpack) I got up and left as I begrudge giving my custom to a pub that does not deserve it. I was welcomed at The Golden Fleece and how lucky i was to be able to have lunch there with the rest of my companions.

10 Jan 2011 20:16

The Griffin, Claygate

My mother and I discovered this pub last week having lived in Claygate for just over 1 year - we wish we'd found it sooner ! We had a lovely lunch, my mother having the beer battered tiger prawns which were huge and I had the 'Old spot ham egg and chips' - absolutely delicious ham which we were told comes from the local butcher 'The Gamelarder' in Claygate. So nice to sit in a warm cosy pub with roaring log fire surrounded by friendly locals.
Such a difference to the draughty old Hare and Hounds with it's awful music blaring out of each speaker behind you.
In our opinion this is definitely the best pub in Claygate.

30 Jan 2010 15:03