We had been to The Beagle (which can be found off the Ipswich – Hadleight road) some time ago, and thought it was about time we had a return trip.

Having visited the ‘Vintage Inns’ website, we found a voucher giving 2 grill meals and a bottle of wine for £25, which should be good value.

On arriving at The Beagle around 2pm on Sunday we noticed that it did look very busy, with a large amount of cars parked on the road outside, but don’t be put off. There is a large car park to the rear of the pub and we had the choice of several tables inside.

We both ordered the 9oz rib-eye steak at the bar (medium rare) and a bottle of Italian wine, all of which were specified on the printed-off voucher. Admittedly the choice was a little restrictive but adequate considering the price.

The meals arrived in very good time and the steaks were both cooked to perfection, served with chip, peas and a tomato – none of the ‘garnish’ that so often spoils a meal!!

All in all we were very impressed with the quality of both the food and the service, and will no doubt be adding The Beagle to our list of local favourites.

The Beagle, Hadleigh Rd, Sproughton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3AR

We thought we’d try the Marlborough Head Inn for a late lunch as we were driving around the countryside on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

Having been to the inn many years ago it was interesting to see how it had changed. I did have to wait a considerable time to be served drinks in the lounge bar – having said that I had failed to notice a bell to summon bar staff. I guess 3pm on Grand National day probably isn’t the best time to draw the bar staff away from the TV in the bar!

Having ordered some food, which arrived in reasonably time, I’m afraid to say we were a little diappointed with the quality. The prawns in my wife’s prawn sandwich were quite ‘rubbery’ and my cod in beer batter and chips was really nothing special.

Having said that the bill was fairly reasonable at just over £15

I think we will try the Marlborough Head Inn again sometimes, when there isn’t a major sporting event on, just to give them another chance. The Inn has an AA 3 star rating although one must assume that is for the quality of the rooms rather than the fine cuisine.

The Marlborough Head Inn

Mill Lane, Dedham, CO7 6DH

01206 323250

A good atmosphere but always very busy. Not sure if you can book a table in advance (not available last time we tried) so worth phoning to find out. Be prepared for a long wait otherwise, especially at the weekends…

The Dog

Ixworth Road, Norton, Bury St Edmunds, IP31 3LP, 01359 230440