Restaurant Review: Lock Stock & Barrel, Newbury, Berkshire

Lock Stock & Barrel is a traditional riverside pub set in the heart of Newbury, Berkshire - we stumbled upon it when looking for a place to settle in and have some lunch and a cider in the sunshine. I haven't explored Newbury as much as I should, living only 30 minutes drive away from the town - it strikes me as having quite a few hidden gems in terms of tea rooms and delicious restaurants. 

Liam and I sat outside by the river as the weather was absolutely gorgeous and if you live in the UK, you quickly learn to appreciate every bit of warmth and sunshine you can get. We grabbed a Rekorderlig cider and our sunglasses, and indulged in some chit chat whilst browsing through the menu. Lock Stock & Barrel have a selection of nibbles to go with your drink which include olives, breads and oils, antipasti and scotch eggs; delicious starters which include pates, goats cheese salad, rarebit and baked camembert; and mains which include their famous fish and chips, pork belly, burgers, sausages and steak.

The prices are very moderate, with starters averaging at around £6.70 and mains priced around £12/13. I think the pub not only charges for good quality seasonal food, but also for the atmosphere which is incredible as long as the sun is out - it's so nice to enjoy good food and a little drink by the river!

We decided to start with a bread basket and some dipping oils - as long as there's good quality oils and freshly baked artisan bread, you can't really go wrong. The bread was very nice - crusty on the outside and soft in the middle, just how I like it! The oils were nice, but not the best I have ever tasted - being lucky enough to have bought some amazing quality extra virgin olive oils from food festivals, I have a certain preference in how I like my oil. The salted butter on the other hand was delicious - that's another favourite of mine, crusty warm bread with salted butter. Mmmmmm....
For the main, we both chose to taste the Lock Stock & Barrel famous fish and chips. The fish batter is made with London Pride beer and the cod is labeled as sustainable so thumbs up there! The main comes with chunky chips, crushed peas and tartare sauce and it certainly didn't disappoint. From the fluffy chips to the soft cod, I throughly enjoyed everything about the main and so did Liam.

We really enjoyed visiting Lock Stock & Barrel and will definitely be back again for some delicious grub by the river! I would have liked there to be a little more variety on the menu, but there is something very special about having a limited, seasonal menu which is made from fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is great for both food and a couple of casual drinks so suits many occasions. I also found out there is a rooftop terrace which can be booked out for special occasions so if you're looking for a venue for a little party or get together space, this would be perfect in the summertime!