Leicester Arms Hotel, Penshurst SURREY

I usually visit the Leicester Arms on Boxing Day when villagers of Penshurst and the surrounding area flock under the awnings of this cosy country retreat clutching mulled wine and excitedly await the start of the Hunt.

I've always enjoyed my visits here, especially in winter where the log fires, squishy old arm chairs and wonky oak beams combine to create that oh-so-cherished country pub atmosphere you expect in a dainty, sparkling hamlet such as this. 

This is the first time I've actually had a three course meal here, in a large, airy restaurant at the back, traditionally furnished with large glass-paned windows giving over a view of the pub's pretty gardens and the valley below. 

The Sunday menu is pretty much meat-and-two veg, with few surprises and rather unimpressive vegetables. Portions are very generous however and the slow-roasted meats did fall off the bone in soft, satisfying chunks as well as being steeped in rich, homemade gravies. 

I made the mistake of ordering the crispy fried prawns with sweet chilli sauce, a daft choice considering our position (far from both the sea and a decent fishmonger). The prawns were watery and tasteless, the batter oozing oil and the sweet chilli sauce out of a Blue Dragon bottle.

Dad had the duck and orange patè, which although not made on the premises, was delicious, creamy and served with a thick red onion chutney and hot, crispy toast.

For mains, Dad had the roast beef, two rollicking great slices that hung over the edge of the plate glistening with gravy and an overly tough and crunchy yorkshire pud. Mum and I opted for slow-cooked lamb shank, mine was both slow cooked and over-cooked (I know, should be impossible), by which I mean that the edges had become gnarled, hardened and chewy, yet inside they were absolute perfection!

Roast potatoes were HUGE and soft, squidgy and oily. Carrots and beans watery and insipid. So far, not winning.

Then we got to the puddings! Hurrah for puds!

My Rich chocolate sponge with Bailey's and Belgian Chocolate sauce was light and fluffy with just a hint of gooey, rich interior and a thick, slightly honeyed sauce (the Bailey's I presume). 

Mum's Dark Chocolate pot was worth licking the plate for, silky smooth and not too much.

Dad's rasberry tart and custard went down a storm, and since he was unable to comment as he was too busy shovelling it into his mouth, one assumes it was as success!

Presentation was simple but elegant. Had I only come for dessert, I'd be happy as Larry! 

Drank a very scrumptious and fruity red Urrugunda from Chile too...