The Bell Inn at Tong, Shifnal

Recently we were invited to try out the newly refurbished Bell Inn at Tong near Shifnal.  We have driven past many times but never actually visited so are unable to comment on comparisons prior to the make over.

Our first impressions were the beautiful frontage of the building , Parking was really easy with a small car park at the front and a larger car park to the rear of the building.  It was lovely to be greeted upon entry and shown to our seats.  The atmosphere felt very relaxed, warm and welcoming.  Despite being a large venue each part section feels snug, cosy and intimate.  We were seated in the lovely conservatory with beautiful cosy decor.  From the large ceiling chandallier combining rustic charm and leafy green nature to the homely feel of the large fireplace and comfy seating, there was a lovely warm and relaxed feel.

The staff were friendly and attentive and knowlegable about the menu. The menus offer a good range without being overloaded.  One slight niggle is that slightly more choice on the childrens menus would have been good.  For starters we went with the Bruschetta and Pate's and opted for the mixed grill and Rump steak for the mains ending with Biscoff sundaes for dessert.  The children sampled the garlic bread starters followed by Chicken Tikka and Cheesesburger and ended with fruit salad and chocolate brownie & ice cream.

The food was delicious, fantastically presented and of a good portion size too.  I can honestly say the chips with the mains were quite possibly the best we have ever tasted, perfect crispiness on the outside and fluffy inside, steaks cooked perfectly and the kids thoroughly enjoyed their meals too.  Drinks were served up beautifully garnished to taste.

Marstons have done an amazing job with the decor in creating such a warm, welcoming and cosy atmosphere even the toilets are beautifully decorated, clean with gorgeous smelling hand soaps and hand lotions for public use.  There is so much attention to detail and well thought out little touches.... The childrens menus double up as activity and colouring sheet, colouring crayons are presented in beautiful little wooden casket boxes with the Bell Inn engraved on the lids.  The cosy snug area has a basket with blankets in for the use of customers who may like to get comfy in one of the welcoming armchairs.  The snug also has a great range of board games and lookssuch a great space to sit and relax in comfort with a cosy blanket and a game or two whilst relaxing over a few drinks.

Our visit was faultless with the exception of that tiny point about perhaps one or two more options for the childrens menu and we will definatley return again.