THE Hollybush advertises itself as a picturesque country pub and it certainly is, through the leafy lanes from Lower Machen, over the bridge, into Draethen and there it is.

Surrounded by lovely trees and shrubs and with the sound of the babbling brook you know you are in for a quiet and relaxing time.

We had our meal in the restaurant but the bar also serves food and was really busy. There’s a lovely garden for the nice weather, when we get some.

We reviewed the menu and it took a while to make our decisions as there is a good range for all courses.

Starters are around £5, I had melon as I am always on a diet and my partner had chef’s soup – leek and potato and both were good.

Steaks, fish and vegetarian options are available so I ordered tuna steak for my main course which really was cooked perfectly and my partner had duck breast with blackberry sauce, main courses range from around £10.

The dessert selection is plainly designed to ensure any diet goes out the window but I managed to refrain but looking back this is probably because of the triple cooked chips we ordered as a side dish...

The service was friendly and relaxed but attentive and the team at The Hollybush are creating some theme events – Pie Wednesday for example, where a selection of pies served with mash, mushy peas and gravy are available yes, every Wednesday.

It also offers a takeaway menu and a two course special for £10 available Friday and Saturday between 6pm and 7.30.

We really did have a lovely evening with lovely food and I can imagine why you would book this venue for a special event.

HOW IT RATED:

FOOD: *****
SERVICE: ****
VALUE FOR MONEY: ****
AMBIENCE: ****

You need to know...
Address: The Hollybush,
Draethen, Lower Machen,
NP10 8GB
Telephone number: 01633 441326
Parking: Ample