The Royal Oak in Melton Mowbray

So, I was having a chat with a few mates about hidden gems in Leicestershire, and The Royal Oak really stood out as one of those proper village pubs that hits the spot. It's got this warm, inviting feel with its nicely done-up interior – you know, that classic old building charm without it feeling stuffy. The food's a real winner; their Sunday roasts are bang on, using meat from award-winning butchers, and things like that scotch egg have folks raving about how it's the best they've tried. Plus, with deals like lunch for less, it's spot-on for your wallet, and they've got a good range of beers to wash it all down. The staff are just lovely, always ready with a smile and happy to sort out any dietary needs, which is great if you're after something a bit different. On the downside, though, service can be a bit on the slow side sometimes, even if the place isn't packed, which might put a dampener on things if you're in a rush. And watch out for those extra charges on a few menu items – it's not a deal-breaker, but it might catch you off guard. All in all, it's a solid spot for a relaxed get-together, especially if you're popping in with the dog after a walk, and I'd say it's worth a visit for the grub alone, as long as you go in with realistic expectations.