The Farmer’s Arms ploughs into a new look for customers
They say a change is as good as a rest and in the case of one County Durham pub that seems to be the case. For many a decade the village pub in the rural, picturesque village of Shadforth has been known as The Shadforth Plough – or just The Plough to locals.
But, following a major revamp earlier this year, the popular pub not only has a whole new look, but also a new name, The Farmer’s Arms.
And, to think of it as a “quirky” place would not be wrong – there’s not many pubs welcome you with a model of a lifesize cow standing outside on the bay window.
Once inside, the pub has a unique feel as well, a rustic, down-to-earth look, complete with log fire and some unusual wall art, as well as some vintage-look floral wallpaper.
There’s also a great “shed” area, perfect for a small party gathering and a large dining area for events such as weddings.
The Farmer’s Arms has been launched as a pie and ale pub, serving a distinct range of pies, including steak and Guinness and goats’ cheese and sweet potato.
However, there’s much more to offer on the menu, with something to suit everyone.
And, for the gin-lovers among you, there is a huge range of flavours on offer.
The atmosphere was really friendly and had a lovely community feel.
My husband was in his element because they serve Hobgoblin ale, which is one of his favourite tipples, and at a reasonable £2.50 a pint, he thought it best to have several while he had the chance.
Meanwhile, as the designated driver, I was drinking Coke which costs £1.80 a glass.
There is a fairly extensive mains menu to choose from and I went for the Hunter’s Chicken, which was a chicken breast with smoked streaky bacon, sticky barbecue sauce and cheese, which came with hand-cut chips and salad and cost £10.50. Although the portion wasn’t huge, the food was delicious and certainly hit the spot. My husband went for the Hillbilly Chicken Burger, at a cost of £12.95, which included a Southern fried chicken breast, with cheese, smoked bacon and pulled pork. It came with huge onion rings, hand-cut chips and coleslaw and he too said the meal was very tasty. I was a bit disappointed there was only a choice of three desserts. I went for the saltedcaramel cheesecake and hubby plumped for the sticky toffee pudding. We both wanted vanilla ice cream with them, but as they only had strawberry flavour left, we opted for cream. They were both very nice and cost £4.90 each. We had a good, relaxed evening at The Farmer’s Arms and the new owners have done a lovely refurbishment job, however, the toilets could do with a bit more of an update to finish off the new look of the place.