The Alford Arms
Hertfordshire, Frithsden - Modern British - Pub - ££
Championing local produce and local virtues since 1999
According to one reader, the Alford Arms sets the ’gold standard’ for pubby excellence in this neck of the Chilterns. Others concur that it's 'consistently top notch', and we reckon this born-again Victorian hostelry is a thoroughly likeable proposition with plenty of box-ticking attributes – not least its glorious location in a bucolic hamlet on the fringes of Ashridge Estate (NT). Fans are also quick to applaud the pub's tasteful farmhouse-chic interiors, hand-pulled ales and savvy all-European wine list, although the venue’s trump cards are its unwavering commitment to local produce and its community spirit – from supporting the village cricket team to doing the milk run when it’s snowing. Much of the credit for its enduring appeal must go to David and Becky Salisbury, who have been running the show and championing the cause since 1999. To eat, bubble 'n' squeak with oak-smoked bacon, free-range poached egg and hollandaise has been on the m...
According to one reader, the Alford Arms sets the ’gold standard’ for pubby excellence in this neck of the Chilterns. Others concur that it's 'consistently top notch', and we reckon this born-again Victorian hostelry is a thoroughly likeable proposition with plenty of box-ticking attributes – not least its glorious location in a bucolic hamlet on the fringes of Ashridge Estate (NT).
Fans are also quick to applaud the pub's tasteful farmhouse-chic interiors, hand-pulled ales and savvy all-European wine list, although the venue’s trump cards are its unwavering commitment to local produce and its community spirit – from supporting the village cricket team to doing the milk run when it’s snowing. Much of the credit for its enduring appeal must go to David and Becky Salisbury, who have been running the show and championing the cause since 1999.
To eat, bubble 'n' squeak with oak-smoked bacon, free-range poached egg and hollandaise has been on the menu since day one, but everything else changes on a weekly basis. Expect a rolling repertoire of appealing seasonal dishes ranging from chargrilled Padrón peppers (grown in nearby Northchurch) or Ashridge venison bonbons with bramble sauce to an apple and pear strudel made with fruit from the Chiltern Heritage Orchard.
Given the pub’s landlocked location, fish has to make the long journey up from the West Country, but the haul speaks for itself: how about Cornish crab with chilli-buttered courgette linguine or hake fillet with crushed new potatoes, buttered kale and caper sauce. Chatty, well-informed staff provide ‘first-class service,’ whether you’re popping in for a pint or contemplating the full three courses. Dogs are ‘welcomed rather than tolerated,’ too.
VENUE DETAILS
Frithsden
Hertfordshire
HP1 3DD
01442 864480
OTHER INFORMATION
Separate bar, Counter seating, Outdoor dining, Parking, Family friendly, Dog friendly