Pub Of The Week: Earl of Strafford, Hooton Roberts, Rotherham

Hardly surprising that popularity, really, given the history of the place, the views it commands across open fields to the far hills beyond. Plus, of course, decent food, a fair old choice of drinks, and the friendly atmosphere.

The manor was one of several homes owned by Thomas Wentworth, the first Baron Wentworth who was later named first Earl Strafford by Charles I. The Earl fell out of favour and was beheaded, but his old manor house has fared rather better.

Today’s pub is a marvellous jumble of rooms, large and small, painted beams and exposed stonework – in the conservatory to the rear (which is the place to be if you want to drink in the scenery while drinking in a decent pint of Timothy Taylors or Hobgoblin) you can marvel at the walls of the original house, where over the years one ancient window has been bricked up, another stone arch has been altered, and two impressive masonry doors added.

There’s a beer terrace for balmier days and the place has been given a tasteful, calming, make-over in sympathy with its past, and there’s not a shred of tacky ‘ye olde inne’ naffness. To the Strafford, however, goes the dubious honour of having the first notice I’ve seen this year which asks customers to start thinking about Christmas.

Still, the giant Yorkshire puddings looked truly amazing, and the prawn mayo baguette I tried was bursting to the point where it had to be tackled with a knife and fork, rather than the fingers.

Phil Penfold

Earl of Strafford, 11, Doncaster Road, Hooton Roberts, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S65 4PE. 01709 711825.

THE VERDICT

Welcome*****

Drinks selection****

Atmosphere*****

Food*****

Prices****