Fox

Address

Chetwynd Aston

Shropshire

TF10 9LQ

Telephone

(01952) 815940

Opening Times

Weekdays

12 - 11 (10.30 Sun)

Civilised dining pub with generous food and a fine array of drinks served by ever-attentive staff Although big, this handsome 1920s Brunning & Price pub is intimate and friendly, with its welcoming atmosphere very much helped along by its kindly capable staff. It was done up by a few years ago, and its style will be familiar to anyone who has tried other pubs in this successful little chain. A series of linked semi-separate areas, one with a broad arched ceiling, has plenty of tables in all shapes and sizes, some quite elegant, and a vaguely matching diversity of comfortable chairs, all laid out in a way that's fine for eating but serves equally well for just drinking and chatting. There are masses of attractive prints, three open fires and a few oriental rugs on polished parquet, boards or attractive floor tiling; big windows and careful lighting contribute to the relaxed effortless atmosphere; board games. The handsome bar counter, with a decent complement of bar stools, serves an excellent changing range of about 18 wines by the glass and 50 malt whiskies; Phoenix Brunning & Price Original, Three Tuns XXX, Woods Shropshire Lad and three guests from brewers such as Newmans, Slaters and Titanic, are on handpump. Although they do provide highchairs, pushchairs and baby buggies are not allowed; good disabled access. The spreading garden is quite lovely, with a sunny terrace, picnic-sets tucked into the shade of mature trees and extensive views across quiet country fields.

As well as sandwiches, well liked food, served in generous helpings from a changing menu, might include spiced fried halloumi on fennel and red onion salad with poppyseed yoghurt, crisp breaded ox tongue with salsa vierge, charcuterie, sweet potato, leek and goats cheese dumplings with red pepper and courgette puy lentils, sun-dried tomato and basil dressing, roast duck with pomegranate couscous, good steak and kidney pie, sausage and mash, battered haddock, and rump steak with watercress and horseradish butter.