Tuesday, 15 April 2008

Hatton Arms

There are many fine pubs dotted along this part of the Welland Valley, and we've been lucky to visit most of them over the last couple of years. One of our favourites right from the beginning was the Hatton Arms at Gretton, a thatched village pub constructed from the local ironstone which gives many villages around here a touch of the Cotswolds in appearance.

The Hatton was lovingly renovated in 2004 by licensees Carl and Lisa Butler, and has been run by them with just as much care, and attention to detail. The Hatton is a true locals pub, but also does a fine line in high quality food. From the outset there has been an emphasis on sourcing local ingredients, as well as local ales from the Great Oakley brewery, so our locally produced cider has fitted in nicely with this ethos.

Recently Carl and Lisa have decided to pass on the reigns of the business to the incumbent chef Shaun, and Kirsten who has worked the front of house since the early days. Rural pubs like the Hatton rely on the regular patronage of local villagers, as well as the passing trade, particularly throughout the Summer. On our recent visits to the Hatton it has been pleasing to see the bar buzzing with local trade, and it's to be hoped that a decent bit of Summer weather will bring a similar buzz to the terraced decking this year.

Rockingham Forest Cider is now available at the Hatton, and we aim to supply our ciders throughout the Summer months, including the Welland Valley Beer Festival in June.

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