The Woodbridge Inn, Coalport

Spanning the River Severn, ‘The Iron Bridge’, which opened in 1781, was the first arch bridge in the world to be constructed from cast iron. Its role in helping the Industrial Revolution to pick up steam ensures its Grade 1 listed status is well deserved.

With the distinction of overlooking the second best iron bridge in the area, The Woodbridge Inn is nonetheless set in a truly stunning location over looking the Coalport Bridge and the River Severn.

What Michelin say, ‘Spacious, modernised pub in a superb spot on the banks of the River Severn. Inside, it's airy and open, yet with nooks and crannies galore. Menus list all the usual suspects but it's worth going off-piste occasionally.’

Mackerel rillette with beetroot relish, pickled shallot rings, bread crisps – the pickled were delightfully sharp and the mackerel rillette had good flavour; for me, the beetroot relish could’ve delivered a little more.  

Pan fried venison with Dauphinoise potatoes, roast parsnip & blackberry jus – the venison haunch was a beautiful piece of meat which in a classy juniper rich blackberry jus. The veg was great, especially the parsnips and with a creamy, garlicky Dauphinoise was a joyous thing.

Glazed lemon tart with blackberry sorbet and burnt meringues – for a Michelin rated place, I found the dessert a little clumsy. The pastry was a thick with a stodgy base and the lemon and blackberry elements could both have been amplified.

I’d definitely visit The Woodbridge Inn if in the area again.

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