Wiltshire


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-lowdown">THE LOWDOWN</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-long-Facebook.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms" class="wp-image-35365" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-long-Facebook.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-long-Facebook-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-long-Facebook-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>When Mark Holton and Mark Florey took over The Neeld Arms, they felt a massive responsibility to maintain the legacy of this longstanding local landmark. Now it’s going from strength to strength, thanks to its cosy interior, warmest of welcomes and spot-on food. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-vibe">THE VIBE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-candle-Facebook.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms " class="wp-image-35366" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-candle-Facebook.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-candle-Facebook-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-table-candle-Facebook-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>This pretty village, just four miles from the M4, may be a peaceful corner of the Cotswolds, but from the minute we arrived in Grittleton it was clear where the action was at. Cars jostled for space outside The Neeld Arms and when we ventured inside, the pub was bursting at the seams with diners, drinkers and tourists bedding down for the night. You’ll find dogs snoozing under tables, couples, friends and families all sinking into their chairs and enjoying time together, cocooned in this lovely spot.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Untitled-design-2024-12-18T121401.326.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms " class="wp-image-35364" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Untitled-design-2024-12-18T121401.326.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Untitled-design-2024-12-18T121401.326-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Untitled-design-2024-12-18T121401.326-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The Neeld’s pretty stone façade oozes Cotswold charm, but the interior ups the ante. Inside, this 15<sup>th</sup> Century pub is a warren of cosy nooks, beamed ceilings and parquet floors. Add in flickering candles, glowing wall lights and the biggest inglenook we’ve ever seen, and this place screams country hideaway vibes. It’s the sort of pub you’d delight in finding after a chilly dog walk, or the perfect spot to hunker down and share a bottle of wine with friends. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-fireplace-Facebook.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms" class="wp-image-35367" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-fireplace-Facebook.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-fireplace-Facebook-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/Neeld-Arms-fireplace-Facebook-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Mark Florey is the brains behind The Neeld’s interior, and his passion clearly shows. From the rich green walls (Little Greene’s Olive), to the leather chairs and well-worn wooden tables, everything has been carefully considered. We particularly loved the blend of modern fabrics and textured Pooky lamps with heritage features, like exposed stonework and wooden pews.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-scoff-amp-quaff">SCOFF &amp; QUAFF</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-salmon-starter-1-rotated.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-35360" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-salmon-starter-1-rotated.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-salmon-starter-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-salmon-starter-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Despite the pub being full to the rafters, the food and service were both spot-on. The menu has a beguiling combination of pub classics, rubbing shoulders with more elevated gastro dishes. Think everything from steak and stilton pie, to pan fried gurnard with citrus greens.</p>



<p>I opted for smoked salmon roulade to start, and jolly good it was too. The pickled cucumber and watercress salad perfectly cut through the rich fish, while the lemon olive oil dressing gave a deliciously citrussy zing. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-burger.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms " class="wp-image-35348" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-burger.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-burger-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-burger-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>My partner in crime went for breaded goat’s cheese with beetroot salad, and it was a generous oozy portion. Nevertheless, she made light work of it and was raring to go when her burger arrived. Juicy and tender, it was piled high with smoked cheddar and came with deliciously crispy fries.</p>



<p>On recommendation, I opted for slow roast belly pork, with a braised cabbage and smoky bacon hash. Topped with slivers of light, crunchy crackling and teamed with a rich jus, it was a hearty affair which more than lived up to the hype. My only regret was that I didn’t order a side of greens to top it off.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-cheese-1-rotated.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-35359" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-cheese-1-rotated.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-cheese-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-cheese-1-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Stretchy waistbands at the ready, we greedily soldiered our way through pudding. I polished off a cheese board that included local lovelies like Bath blue and Somerset brie, while my co-conspirator opted for homemade profiteroles. The airy choux dough was topped with a divine chocolate orange sauce, making for a decadent end to our dinner.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-pillow-talk">PILLOW TALK</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-new-room.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms" class="wp-image-35350" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-new-room.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-new-room-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-new-room-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>The Neeld Arms has six freshly renovated rooms, all ensuite and all at a very reasonable price. These range from a Snug Double to a spacious family room, with a king and two singles. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-bedroom-2.jpg" alt="The Neeld Arms" class="wp-image-35345" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-bedroom-2.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-bedroom-2-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/12/The-Neeld-Arms-bedroom-2-768x511.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Relieved not to be driving home in the rain, we snuck upstairs to our Snug Double (above) and hunkered down. Proof that good things come in small packages, the room really was perfectly formed, with gorgeous soft lighting, pretty panelling and a wrought iron bed frame. </p>



<p>There were thoughtful touches too, like the bedside Roberts radio, Nespresso coffee machine and shower gel from Cotswold based 100 Acres Perfumery. I’m a bit of a pillow snob, but it really was exceedingly comfy and we had a great night’s kip.</p>



<p>After a welcome lie-in, we nipped down to the restaurant for breakfast. A full English was a no-brainer, especially give the lure of locally sourced bacon (Devizes) and sausages (Gloucester), which we washed down with freshly brewed coffee. Even our cuppa was locally sourced, this time from Dusty Ape roastery in Hilperton.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dog-friendly">DOG FRIENDLY? </h2>



<p>Yes, your four-legged friend can join in the fun. Pooches are welcome in two dog-friendly bedrooms, for an extra £30 per stay.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-out-amp-about">OUT &amp; ABOUT</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/04/Bowood-spring-gardens-resized-1000x667.jpg" alt="Bowood " class="wp-image-33120" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/04/Bowood-spring-gardens-resized-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/04/Bowood-spring-gardens-resized-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/04/Bowood-spring-gardens-resized-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2024/04/Bowood-spring-gardens-resized.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bowood House </figcaption></figure>



<p>Grittleton is a mere four miles from the M4, making The Neeld Arms an excellent pitstop. You’re also six miles from Chippenham, which has a mainline station servicing London Paddington in just over an hour. Of course, you’ll find tons to do locally too, with Malmesbury Abbey, Bowood House, Highgrove and Westonbirt Arboretum all within hopping distance. Pretty Castle Combe is also well worth a visit – with its quaint streets and honey-hued stone, you’ll see why it’s been used as a location for films including War Horse and Stardust.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-muddy-verdict">THE MUDDY VERDICT </h2>



<p><strong>Good for:</strong>&nbsp;Everyone, from friends meeting for dinner to couples hankering after a romantic night in a classic country pub. The Neeld Arms’ proximity to the M4 also makes it an ideal stopover for anyone hot-footing it from London to Cornwall, or Wales.</p>



<p><strong>Not for:</strong> If you’re intending to explore the wine list, you’ll need a taxi. Alternatively, just book a room and go wild. &nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>The damage:</strong>&nbsp;Well-priced. Starters from £7.50, mains courses from £17.50. Rooms start at £100.</p>



<p>The Neeld Arms, The Street, Grittleton, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN14 6AP. Ring 01249 782470 to book, email info@neeldarms.co.uk or see their <a href="https://www.theneeldarms.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">website</a> for full details.</p>


Review: The Neeld Arms, Grittleton, near Chippenham

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