Definitely more pub than restaurant.
It was rather difficult to have a conversation over dinner. For those not accustomed to raising their voice, it became quite a strain.
Having said that, the table which was reserved for us was positioned under the big screen, among regular socialising punters in an open space (conducive to noise). We could have moved outside, as the weather was fair, but we stuck with what we were given (before the place started to fill out). I don't doubt that if we'd have asked to move, it would have been accommodated.
The service was good.
The real stand-out feature of our meal was the food.
While the options didn't appear to be anything special while choosing, the food was actually delicious and very nicely priced. Superb value for money! Just under £20 per person for a main, a drink, and a dessert.
Mushroom Bourguignon pie, and Tikka Masala for mains. Crumble and Salted Caramel Brownie for dessert. The brownie is worth a special mention. Very good brownie, yum!
We'd go again, but would perhaps request a better/quieter table.
Lisa and her staff are always welcoming and helpful. Beers and food are great, pubs always clean and tidy. Great garden area with an outside TV with Sky Sports. Parking always available, always handy as Bilton can be a bit busy.
I’m extremely disappointed with how this pub handles its private parking. I’ve been an occasional customer here, but after a recent experience, I won’t be returning — and neither will my family.
During a personal urgency, I had to visit the pharmacy next door. The pharmacy’s spaces were full, so I parked briefly (about 15 minutes) in the pub’s car park — a place I’ve supported as a paying customer in the past. I didn’t use the pub that day, but I also saw no clear signage indicating that parking would lead to a fine.
A few weeks later, I received a £100 parking fine, which was then increased to £120 simply because I was unable to reach anyone in time to dispute it. I tried multiple times to contact the parking company (ParkingEye), but it was impossible to speak with a real person. The whole system feels like a trap — one that profits off of genuine mistakes and lack of clear communication, rather than managing parking fairly.
While I accept that it was technically private property, the response was completely disproportionate and unwelcoming. It’s incredibly disappointing to see a local business participate in this kind of enforcement without offering any flexibility, dialogue, or decency — especially toward occasional patrons.
If you’re thinking of visiting this pub, be very careful where you park, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Sadly, I can’t recommend supporting a business that chooses to handle things this way.
The black horse is another punch pub with bags of charm...
Extremely bright and clean throughout... Staff here were doing an outstanding job cleaning and polishing everywhere before the first customers piled in for an arranged coffee morning.
Lisa the land lady has really worked her magic on this beautiful venue... The high quality finish is clear to see.
Sports, pool and darts are available and an abundance of outdoor seating as shown in photos.
A true gem of a pub, popular with the local walkers for a meet and greet over coffee and cakes.
Be sure to put you're registration in at the bar as the carpark is monitored to stop people abusing it.
😎
A bit rough and ready as pubs go. The staff were pleasant and friendly, and the food was very good. They had some good offers on the food so I'd recommend a visit if you're looking for a good cheap meal.