The Hollybush Inn Denford Bar, Pub in Leek

Reviews

1. Lana Winfield ★★☆☆☆

   I’m going to say the good thing first, the server I had was amazing and she was so nice and kept making sure everything was okay. Now, I believe the food was not upto par, the steak and ale pie was absolutely not on, for the meat was stupidly fatty so what am I paying for? Gravy and some crust? You’re actually making a mockery of me- it was an extortionate price for what it was. Won’t be coming- go Wetherspoons at least you can get a good meal.

   almost 7 months ago
2. jenny cartledge ★★★★★

   We visited The Hollybush Inn at Denford in our motorhome and were made to feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Nick came straight out to greet us and made sure we could get parked up safely, which was really appreciated. The pub has recently had huge improvements and it’s very clear the money was well spent. It’s warm, inviting, and beautifully done, with a real fire that makes it feel instantly cosy. The restaurant is spacious and comfortable, and the bar has a great selection of well-kept guest ales alongside their regular ones so there’s something for everyone. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely seemed to care about the service they provided. The food choice was mouthwatering and we were honestly spoiled for choice. I picked the fish and chips from the specials and my husband chose the mixed grill. You can see from the photos that the portion sizes are generous, but it was the quality that really stood out. My fish was white, creamy, and flaky with the lightest, crispiest batter I’ve ever tasted. The mixed grill was cooked to perfection with no gristly bits at all. The pub sits right on the Caldon Canal, with lovely walks all around, and it’s dog friendly with its own dog menu too which is a lovely touch. A fantastic visit from start to finish despite the weather and we’ll definitely be back.

   almost 7 months ago
3. Jackie Robinson ★★★★★

   Three of us went for food and to watch the line music. Nothing disappointed us. Friendly accommodating staff, great music, delicious, piping hot food. Two of us had steak & ale pie. Suet pastry topped bowl, loads of tasty meat and gravy. No need for an extra jug. One of us had their beef burger, so big it had to be dismantled! Lots of chips and fresh veg, we had 2 extra veg sides too. Nothing to complain about, just wholly recommend. Meals around £15 each. Sides about £3 each. Will certainly be going back for more!

   almost 7 months ago

1. Missy ★☆☆☆☆

   We used to absolutely love coming to The Hollybush Inn — it had a real home-cooked feel, great food, and a warm, friendly atmosphere under the previous owners and staff. It was one of our favourite local spots for years. From staff being arrested for terrorism, to poor people skills that have been seen on the pub’s social media. Unfortunately, our recent visits have been disappointing. Since the change in management, the menu has lost many of the classic dishes that made the pub special. We were sad to see favourites like the traditional fish and chips disappear simply because they weren’t to the new landlady’s taste. The atmosphere has also changed — the friendly, welcoming vibe seems to have gone, and the staff don’t seem as happy or engaging as they once were. While the landlady doesn’t appear to have strong people skills, her husband Nick is always pleasant and approachable, and we’ve always had time for him. We have that lack of respect for the landlady, I cannot even remember her name. They seem to swan off when the pub staff is in dire need of support, peak times. It’s a shame to see how much things have changed. We’ve since decided to take our custom elsewhere and, sadly, won’t be returning unless the charm and warmth that made The Hollybush special come back.

   almost 8 months ago
2. Jane Morris ★★★★★

   Perfect little friday night get away. Beautiful food and inviting atmosphere. We stayed overnight in our motor home which topped the night off. We will definitely be back! This gem is only half an hour away from home but it ticked all the boxes. Thank you!

   almost 8 months ago
3. David Wheaver-Sale ★★★★★

   Excellent food, good range of beers on tap and great countryside views. My go to place for a weekend relaxing meal in the countryside.

   almost 3 years ago

1. Paul P ★★★★★

   Just eaten one of the best meals in a pub for a long time. Fillet steak with a beautiful sauce of our choice. Beautifully cooked to our requirements, top quality and fantastic value. The ambiance in this pub is very welcoming with open fires very cosy. The staff are lovely too. Highly recommended.

   almost 3 years ago
2. Christine Frankland ★★★★☆

   Lovely generous portions tasty and reasonably priced. Meals cooked to order so expect a little wait. Ploughman's on the right cajun chicken left

   almost 4 years ago
3. Lin H ★★★★☆

   Just popped in to ask about the possibility of staying overnight in my motorhome. Friendly staff, superb location alongside the canal . There is now more outside seating front and at the rear of the pub. There were a few people eating meals which looked delicious. Main courses were around £12. Pub and the surroundings were lovely and clean. Large car park. The entrance is a little tight and close to two narrow canal bridges so larger vehicles need to take care. I saw a transit van entering easily, but it's not easy to see if other vehicles are coming down over the canal bridge. But I definitely recommend this pub for drinks or a meal.

   almost 4 years ago

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