About This Pub
Ah, The Cricketers—it's one of those pubs that really sticks in your mind for all the right reasons, based on what folks have said. From what I've gathered, it's a proper gem for enjoying a meal with mates or marking a big occasion, like an 80th birthday bash or even a wake, where the food comes out excellent and the staff go out of their way to make everything smooth. I love how they've got options for gluten-free diners, which isn't always easy to find, and the prices are spot on for a casual night out. The atmosphere sounds charming too, with a wood fire adding that extra touch of homeliness, and drinks like IPAs at reasonable rates. But, let's be straight, it does have its downsides—some have mentioned it feeling a tad lifeless on certain evenings, which might not suit if you're after a lively vibe. Plus, with no fresh reviews lately and a bit of uncertainty about whether it's even open, it's worth double-checking before you pop by. All in all, if you're in the Hitchin area and fancy a relaxed spot that's big on personal service, give it a go, but keep your expectations in check for a quieter experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food here is absolutely spot on, with plenty of choices including a dedicated gluten-free menu that caters brilliantly for those with dietary needs.
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The staff are wonderfully helpful and friendly, making any visit feel warm and welcoming, especially for special occasions like birthdays or wakes.
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It's a great spot for events, with a function room that's been praised for being well set up and perfect for gatherings.
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The atmosphere can be lovely, especially with a crackling wood fire and reasonably priced drinks like IPAs and Prosecco.
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Overall, it's an affordable place that offers good value, making it a hidden gem for a relaxed pint or celebration.
Cons
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It can feel a bit too quiet at times, like on a Friday night, which might leave you wanting a bit more buzz and energy.
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There haven't been any recent reviews in the last six months, so it's hard to know if things have stayed the same or changed.
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The pub's online presence is pretty minimal—no website or verified Google listing—which makes it tricky to check opening times or book ahead.
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Based on the current status, it might not be open right now, which is a shame given the positive experiences shared in older reviews.
Contact Information
107 Arlesey Rd, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3TH
+441462422766
Pub
Hours not available
Opening Hours
Opening hours not available
Recent Reviews
We had a table for 11 at The Cricketers to celebrate my mother's 80th Birthday in July 2023
The food and the service were all excellent. One of our party is Celiac, so is gluten free, which wasn't an issue, as The Cricketers provide their own gluten free menu with several different choices of starters, main courses and puddings. The restaurant was also happy for us to bring our own home-made gluten free birthday cake and even brought out plates and cutlery to serve it with!
The ambience was warm and welcoming and the staff were really attentive. Overall, we enjoyed a very special evening to celebrate my mums big birthday. Thank you to all the staff.
We hired the function room for a wake yesterday. The room was set out nicely with tableclths and flowers on the tables. Karen had arranged a lovely finger buffet from a local caterer and couldn't have been more helpful. A perfect venue for such occasions.
Visited for a free jazz and dance event. Surprised to find small but free buffet provided every Sunday. A wooden fire crackled in the front bar making a lovely atmosphere. IPA and Atlantic Pale Ale on offer, small bottles of Prosecco on sale all at a reasonable price. Bar maid was very pleasant and parking whilst a little small for a very large event was ample for our group of 20+.
A nice place to have a quiet drink. Quiet being the operative word, though. I visited on a Friday night some weeks ago and it felt it was if it was lacking a little atmosphere.
I spoke to the owner, though. A lovely guy. He has plans, and I wouldn't bet against this place becoming a belter once again in the long term.
I love this pub so much! We had just visited the Hitchin Lavendar Farm and were walking back to Hitchin planning to catch the next bus when we came upon the Cricketers and stopped for a pint. It is right across from a bus stop pretty convenient for us. Inside Collin, the perfect English gentleman was serving the pints and his best friend Dave was keeping him company drinking a few whiskeys. These two characters were full of stories, jokes and laughter making us feel right at home. I had a cider and my husband got an ale. We had such a good time talking to Collin and Dave that several buses went by before we bid them farewell. Please stop in for a pint and tell Collin and Dave we said hello!
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