You've probably heard me professing my love for the Red Mist pubs before - especially my favorite central Farnham pub The Wheatsheaf. But it's all change in town, with The Wheatsheaf changing hands and a new Red Mist offering opening on Castle Street.
Introducing, The Castle Inn.
Sitting proudly within sight of Farnham Castle, it is everything you'd expect from a Red Mist pub - top quality locally sourced food, a relaxed yet lively atmosphere and an excellent interior. And this time, in the perfect central location, nestled among other Farnham favourites like Castle Street Flowers and Gail's Bakery.
I was invited to come along and see it for myself, and try the new menu. Please note, this meal was gifted but, as ever, all views my own. I took my food photographer pal Milly - it's always good to have someone with impeccable taste alongside, keeping you in check!
To start, Milly went for the pan seared scallops with pancetta, celeriac puree and Crondall truffle oil, and me the chicken and apricot terrine. The perfect combination of sweet and savoury with a spiced chutney; it was absolutely delicious. Milly's scallops were juicy and perfectly cooked - a real winner.
Aside from these, the whole baked Camembert was making eyes at me (side note, it's baked inside a rustic loaf... sold) and the deli or mezze boards would make the perfect sharing starter. My idea of a perfect Saturday is walking in to town for a beer and lunch - The Castle has so many great sharing and lunch options which fills me with joy... Saturday afternoon drinking ahoy!
We moved on to steak and fish respectively, with Milly opting for the Surrey Farm rump steak with chunky chips and bearnaise sauce, cooked perfectly to her taste (as it should be, medium rare). I made good use of the specials board and went for the halibut with prawns - absolutely delicious and again perfectly cooked. I can honestly say I don't think I've ever had a bad meal at a Red Mist pub - I can totally rely on their first-rate chefs to conjure up something special.
Whether we fancy a pub classic - ham, egg and chips, if you're asking - or a restaurant quality meal made with local ingredients, we know Red Mist will deliver. For us, it is that go-to that you need within walking distance of your house.
Oh, I almost forgot. Pudding. As if - we all know it's what we're holding out for.
It took next to no time for me to decide. The pecan pie, naturally. Served with ice cream and fresh honeycomb, I was in heaven. Crunch, warm, cold, salt, sweet. Perfection! Milly was, as ever, far more sensible and went for the affogato. Sourcing local ice cream from Petersfield - in fact right next to my auntie and uncle's house - you're safe in the knowledge they're supporting local business and not clocking up the mileage.
Would I recommend The Castle Inn? Without a doubt! We're lucky to have so may great pubs in and around Farnham, but having another 10/10 on the highstreet is so great to see. Perhaps not so great for my bank balance, but ya know - swings and roundabouts!
Be sure to get hold of a Red Card if you do visit - it works a bit like a Boots Advantage card, where you can accrue points and money off vouchers. Win win!
The Castle Inn (website).5 Castle Street, Farnham, GU9 7HR.
Meal gifted for review purposes. All views and thoughts my own. Thank you Red Mist for inviting me to visit!
