History fact: England is very old. Over time they have acquired these old myths and legends, as they sometimes try to pass off as legitimate history. (No matter how much any English person tries to convince you – dragons are not, and have never been, real!)
Usher in tale of the Lambton Worm… I could try to explain it… But… let’s just take a snippet of this from Wikipedia.
After hearing this slightly horrifying story, I was immediately intrigued by the pub I pass on almost a daily basis called (you guessed it) The Lambton Worm!
The pub is located between Chester Le Street and Birtley and also doubles as a very adorable Bed and Breakfast. Their signage tout being a carrier to one of my favourite gins, Poetic License; as well as one of Greg’s favourite beers, The Raven from a local microbrewery Sonnet 43 Brew House. So obviously, we were sold.
I needed a drink after a wildly underwhelming viewing of the new Godzilla movie (I can’t even start on how not great this movie was – but this isn’t a movie blog!) And was so excited to see one of my favourites, an Espresso Martini, on the menu. The Lambton Worm makes their espresso martini with a dash of their S43 stout which gives it a pleasant sweetness. I was also happy to watch them hand pour espressos (versus using a pre-mix.) This cocktail was definitely a highlight! And a bonus is that is was very reasonable priced (as I know we’re all trying to live that bougie life on a Poundland budget.)
Many town pubs are now highlighting their vegan offerings. When I think ‘old English pub’ I don’t usually think vegan food. But as someone whose body rejects lactose, but loves nachos, I decided to give the Vegan Nachos a-go on their new Vegan Junk Food Menu to start. And you know what? They were good! The hit the spot with lots of salsa, pickled jalapenos and a lathering of very decent vegan cheese. I mean, as it was all vegan, it was practically a salad, right?
As someone who is writing a food blog, it is pretty obvious how obsessive I am about food. Before most food outings I like to pour over a menu and daydream about the epic meal which lies in my future. Unfortunately, on this occasion, the item I was looking forward was taken off the menu (A classic hanging kebab.) In my panic, I chose the gyro for my main. And it was kind of… meh. It was on a folded tortilla, versus a more traditional, pita wrap, and I found the tzatziki and vegetables very sweet.
Greg ordered a Fish Finger sandwich. Which I scoffed at because as a Canadian, I was like, truly, what the fuck is that? Just as it sounds – it’s fish fingers, which appeared to be homemade, on toasted bread with a dose of tartar sauce. And let me tell you, that bitch WAS GOOD. As was the side of double cooked chips. My suggestion if you take a trip to the ol’ L-Dubs is to stay more traditional in your food choiced, it seems you can’t go wrong then.
The Lambton Worm had a great atmosphere, was friendly on the wallet and, overall, good food and drink. It has reminded me that there are so many little gems in my backyard (or just a bus ride away) that I have yet to try! If anyone has some suggestions of village pubs in the area – please let me know!
Pairs Well With
Obviously the Espresso Martini. Their entire gin menu appeared lush as well! I am confident if you trek out to The Lambton Worm you will not have an issue finding a libation to tickle your fancy.
