AS the dark nights begin to creep in and autumn announces itself with a bluster of  falling leaves, I find myself craving a cozy country pub with a delicious offering of classic comfort food.

It was one of those days when all you want in the world is a delicious meal and a little downtime and the last thing you feel like doing is beginning to cook.

So having switched off my computer, I jumped in the car to grab my other half and whisk him off for a meal at our local.

Situated on the edge of the A590 in Swarthmoor, The Miners' Arms is a traditional village pub which is home to sports teams, match viewings and live music events every weekend.

Having reopened for food almost one year ago, The Miners Arms has enjoyed a roaring trade with its delicious Sunday carveries.

Too lazy to cook and the temptation of an instant roast dinner just yards away, I have often headed off in search of what I consider to be the home of the best roast dinner I've had since moving to the area almost one year ago.

This time, however, I was in search of a midweek indulgence and went to see what The Miners' Arms had to offer on a dreary Tuesday night.

At 7.30 we had arrived just in time for last orders, which - despite my initial surprise - I concluded was quite reasonable for a small pub on a Tuesday night.

The staff welcomed us with a familiar smile and utter surprise when my partner opted for a pint of diet coke - surprise indeed.

I quickly salvaged the situation by grabbing a bottle of fruit cider and a couple of menus and heading to the dining room.

Alongside a staple collection of well-loved classics, the menu also offered some more varied treats and a whole host of specials.

Bearing in mind my tiny appetite, I decided to share my starter of red chilli and ginger chicken goujons with my somewhat wary boyfriend before delving into a lemon, thyme and rocket risotto (£8.50) for my main course. 

Matt opted for the pub grub classic of lamb shank with mash and seasonal vegetables (£10.50).

The goujons (£4.50) arrived within minutes and were served with a sweet chilli dipping sauce.

I greedily dived in and was delighted with the goujon's zingy flavour and tasty texture, which was the perfect balance of crispy crumb and tender chicken.

Matt - my spice-fearing partner in crime - watched with intrigue before starting with a cautious nibble and declaring the dish a success.

We demolished our starter within a matter of minutes and our main courses arrived soon after.

Despite being a huge lover of risotto, I often find that I'm disappointed by the results so was interested to see what was in store for me at The Miners.

Fearing a plate full of stodge, I thankfully received the light and delicate dish that harboured a barely-there hint of lemon.

The dish was accompanied by a few spears of soft and flavoursome asparagus that stole the show from the mildly-flavored risotto.

Having finished my plate I glanced over at Matt who was starting to struggle with his mammoth fall-off-the bone lamb.

Unable to resist any longer I picked up my fork and gave him a "helping hand" and relished the strong flavour and tender texture of the meat.

The lamb was accompanied by melt-in-the-mouth mash with just a hint of mint that lifted the dish beautifully.

Finally surrendering to my groaning stomach, we called it a day and regretfully declined a dessert before calling for the bill.

At £29.20 I felt the meal was good value for money but for me, the real winner was the service.

The friendliness of the staff is unrivalled and it's easy to see why the small pub continues to attract crowds of people to enjoy its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.

Pros:

  • Relaxing and friendly atmosphere.
  • Excellent offers for pensioners

Cons:

  • Stops serving food quite early