Supper at Five Bells, Bassingham

I walked past the Five Bells on my first day in Bassingham and it looked so inviting. I liked the combination of red brick, ivy, and various potted plants. I’d also been told they served very good food, so I decided to try it out. Now that was a good move! The Five Bells offers excellent food in pleasant surroundings with friendly service.

There are wood fires at both ends of the low, wood-beamed room. I was seated inside the chimney nook that ran the width of the room so I was lovely and cosy. The ceiling beams were strung with dried hops and the walls and shelving were filled to overflowing with everything from a stuffed fish to a portrait of Winston Churchill. There were horse brasses and brass jugs, old books, an antique record player, an assortment of relics from World Wars I and II, and so much more.

I really enjoyed my meal, which was beautifully presented. The squash, sweet potato, and chickpea burger was served with a generous portion of fries, crispy onions, and salad. For dessert I had toffee apple pudding with custard. I was pleased to note they had a full vegetarian menu.

What impressed me as much as the food was the service. It was friendly and unpretentious and I never felt rushed or overlooked because I was on my own.

A weeknight, the room was full of local residents – a middle-aged son entertaining his mother with his jokes, a couple celebrating the husband’s renewed health, and a large group of men who were clearly enjoying themselves. I definitely recommend a meal at Five Bells if you’re ever in this part of Lincolnshire.