Great place for a hearty meal in a rustic setting

APPEARANCES can be deceptive, as proved to be the case with Hall Farm.

I’d driven past it many a time presuming it was just a farm shop and simple cafe.

But upon investigation, itturnedouttobea rather charming restaurant in what was once a cattle shed.

Our visit one Sunday lunchtime was onabit of whim and we were lucky to get a table at the venue, which was packed.

The sun was shining which meant we could takeatable outside, looking at stunning Constable countryside and the rather lovely Stratford St Mary church tower.

Backing on to the seating area are farm animals, including ponies, cattle and chickens.

Some of the latter even take to having a wander around your feet!

Back to dinner. There were lots of starters to pick from including leek and potato soup, smoked ham hock terrine and sardines grilled in garlic butter.

I went for the melting Somerset goat’s cheese, served with a tasty honey dressing and walnut salad.

My main, lemon sole served with “hand-cut” chips, was beautifully cooked in butter.

My husband chose the soup to start and while it was not as creamy as his homemade version, he polished off the lot.

For his main, he had the roast loin of free range Blythburgh pork, served with a whopping Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, crackling and plenty of veg.

He struggled to finish his meal and as roasts go, said it was good value for money.

With all the delicious looking homemade cakes on show in the restaurant, as well as varied dessert menu, a pudding wasamust.

I opted for the caramalised banana parfait served with chocolate crumbs and raisins. It was light and delicious.

My husband gobbled up one of the giant scones available from the cake counter.

Hall Farm is a great place to pop in for coffee and cake or for a more hearty meal with a rustic difference.

ANDREA COLLITT