Lambton Hounds Pity Me (from Durham Times)

THE hunt for this week's Eating Out venue ended with a visit to premises probably passed by thousands of motorists on a daily basis.

But many of those passers-by could do a lot worse than to go running with the hounds, the Lambton Hounds, a familiar hostelry just two miles north of Durham city centre, off the A167 Pity Me roundabout.

Situated on Pity Me's Front Street, on what was the original Great North Road, the 250-yearold former coaching inn offers all the charm of a traditional village pub.

The olde-world feel of the front room lounge and snug is completed by an impressive curved former cocktail bar from the RMS Olympic, a stable-mate of Harland and Wolff's more famous liner, the Titanic.

While the Titanic famously failed to complete its maiden voyage, its sister vessel survived another 22 years until it was dismantled at Palmer's yard at Jarrow, on Tyneside.

A subsequent auction of its fixtures and fittings was the probable reason why the bar from the firstclass smoking room found its way to a village local a good dozen miles inland.

Moving aft from the lounge, visitors will find themselves in the cosy surrounds of the pub's restaurant.

By weekday, it has in recent years adopted an Italian theme, returning to its traditional food offering on a Sunday lunch-time.

It was therefore the Sunday Lunch menu offer of starter, main course and dessert, plus a glass of white wine, all for £6.95 each, which was the fare for the day in the middle of the Bank Holiday weekend.

Opting for the soup, spring vegetable, and mini combo, of breaded mushrooms, onion rings and potato wedges with garlic dip, proved a good appetiser prior to the roasts.

Turkey and beef were the choices, both served with a wholesome Yorkshire pudding, roast and mashed potatoes, and a selection of crispy vegetables.

The sweet offerings vary from hot home-made pudding and custard to gateaux or ice cream.

Pudding of the day for our visit was a very tasty apple crumble, while my better half opted for the black forest gateau.

Apart from the glass of house wine, on the house as part of the menu offer, there is also an extensive wine list, while there is a selection of cask and non-cask beers and lagers.

The meal was completed with a cappuccino, completing a more than full feeling and all for under £7 per person.

A colleague found the evening Italian equally good value on a recent visit, although our spies suggest the Lambton Hounds may be moving to more traditional menus in midweek.

Weekday lunch lures include a buy five, get one free offer, while busy office parties are welcome to ring in advance to order early.

All in all, the Lambton Hounds offers a pleasant Sunday sojourn, while passing motorists could do worse than pay a visit when hunt

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