The Blue Cow Inn - South Kesteven

This charming pub is very old and lovely. The food was really nice and the rooms were cozy, leading to a good night's sleep. The staff were very friendly and the breakfast was delicious. I would love to stay here again in the future.

We made a reservation for dinner at this popular pub a day in advance, and we highly recommend it. The pub has a charming historic atmosphere with low beams, some of which reportedly date back to the 14th century. The bar and restaurant staff were really friendly and provided great service. I ordered the pie of the day (which was steak and ale) with chips, peas, and gravy, while my husband enjoyed the delicious rump steak fajita. We both had lager to accompany our meals, which was refreshing on one of the hottest days of the year. The pub also offers accommodation options with rooms available, making it a great choice for visitors to the area. It is conveniently located only 8 miles from Oakham showground for the Global Birdfair and is a great base for other sightseeing activities in the area. There are outdoor tables for drinks as well as a spacious and comfortable dining room.

Sadly the Blue Cow was below expectations. The twin room we booked was a long rather narrow room, so the beds were end-on-end and was situated on the front of the house. The road outside is far from a country lane, as it is direct access to the nearby A1 and gets quite busy from 6 am onwards. Our evening meal seemed to comprise of the previous days leftovers. The locally brewed beer was tip top. The big plus is there is a charging point in the carpark for electric cars.

We stayed here as a stopover to North Yorkshire. This pub is just another example of a pub let go of and not maintained Covid or no Covid. The one member of staff we met was very polite and obliging. Our evening meal and breakfast was all good. BUT....the room. The blankets were clean and that was it. Front door worn out and almost see through, dirty walls and windows. The toilet bathroom was disgusting, old and dirty. The boiler cupboard door hanging off exposing wiring. Big hole in the floor behind the toilet and the bath seal absolutely filthy and mouldy. Outside: Filthy garden covered in cigarette butt 's, dirty seats and tables with bits of food that had been dropped on the floor. I am glad we parked our car away from the building as one or two of the regulars drove after at least several pints! It is a little sad that what would have been a lovely pub at some point is now turned to this. I think the rooms should be closed until such a time that they are clean and habitable. For such a lovely area with pubs nearby it would pay to have a tidy up and a paint job and attract new business. It really does have the potential.

I stayed at this Inn last summer and was really made to feel welcome and at home. The room was so cosy and clean, with everything you need in it. Nothing was too much trouble for the friendly couple that manage the Inn. Good choice of food, good portion sizes and absolutely delicious food. I'd definitely stay again and highly recommend it.