Review

Good, traditional pub food can be hard to unearth, but in Milton, there is no shortage of choice. Home to four traditional pubs, and with three located on the busy High Street, there is some competition when it comes to choosing where to eat in this historic village, and it is down to each venue to attract custom.

The Lion and Lamb does this by promising honest pub fare, and makes the most of its location, drawing in

Hearty, traditional pub-style home cooking, served in a family-friendly, social environment

passing trade from the busy main road that feeds the Cambridge Science Park by offering take-away breakfast baps served with speciality coffee to soothe the early morning commute, as well as an express lunch-time service aimed at business lunches.

Inside, low-slung beams help to create a warm and comfortable atmosphere, which is emphasised by the affable staff who greet you. Divided into two separate areas, the refurbished restaurant offers a quiet, more formal atmosphere - that can feel slightly stiff when empty - than the front bar where, on some evenings, you may find yourself accidentally involved in a pool tournament or poker evening at the end of your meal. Visiting on a Tuesday - the weekly quiz night - we had to do our best not to be cajoled into joining one of the habitual teams.

The venue is certainly friendly, and the effort that has gone into making this a welcoming, community pub is plain to see, not least because of the regular customers buttressing the bar. The menu is extensive, full of family favourites, and punctuated by locally sourced produce - the restaurant claims Grassmere Farm Rutland Pork is the best in the region, and you can enjoy their gammon steak or sausages here, the latter served with customary gravy that is second to none. Although traditionally British cuisine, the short starter menu will allow you to indulge if Asian food is more your thing, offering delicate spring rolls that are served with a sharp teriyaki sauce, and crunchy filo-wrapped king prawns accompanied by a more gentle, sweet-chilli dip.

Accommodating to a fault, the pub allows you to pre-order your menu if time is a concern, and also serves food more suitable to a lunch-hour visit, with a selection wraps and freshly baked baguettes, as well as the more traditional baked potatoes. It's also clear that families are welcome, with a separate child's menu, and a large, enclosed play area in the garden.

The Lion and Lamb have got the tone just right - it may not be gastro-pub cuisine, but the food is honestly prepared, candidly priced, and served with a passion which lets you know that both the community and the landlord want the pub to succeed.