My family have eaten out on Christmas day for the last five years and I must say the first 4 years have been average. I would like to tell you where these first 4 years took place, but I won’t. What I can tell you is that this year we paid a little extra and upgraded our venue. We may have upgraded, but at £54.95 this was still reasonably priced.

We booked our table for four at 130pm on Christmas day at the Carrington Arms in Moulsoe. The menu looks fancy but when you break it down it is actually quite simple, unique and very tasty! My mum thanked us as there was no cooking for her again this year.

Décor

The restaurant had a warm, merry feel to it. When we arrived many guests were standing at the bar having a good chat and social tipple or two and more. The decorations were subtle and not too cheesy. All of the tables featured crackers and little silver gift boxes for the guests, Charming! The log fire burning away made us feel cosy.

Atmosphere

Jolly Christmas songs were playing in the distance with staff and customers mingling well together before dinner. Everyone seemed friendly and because there was no turn over of tables, we were able to relax knowing our table was ours for the day. I dislike the thought of rushing a Christmas treat or any social gathering for that matter.

Service

The staff did not rush to deliver every course nor was any one demanding their food. The timing was perfect, joyous, friendly and thorough.

Food

Starters

The broccoli and stilton soup served with a blue cheese crostini was creamy and full of flavour, the portion just right for a starter - leaving room for the mains. Please note quality and not quantity is the key here. My partner also loved this piping hot soup. Coquilles St Jaques, scallops served in their shells in Beurre Blanc, with breadcrumbs. They were smooth and bursting with character, the crumbs gave this dish a lovely crunch and left you in the mood for more. Again, a family member had selected this dish and totally agreed.

A great touch came in the shape of four large red wine glasses filed with champagne sorbet. The combination of the champagne and sorbet opened the pallet giving you that feeling that you wanted more food. This was zappy and generous.

Mains

Roast turkey with pigs in blanket roll, sage stuffing and cranberry and rosemary gravy came with long sausages and crispy bacon. Three people selected this traditional dinner and were seriously happy with their choice. The turkey came moist, not sliced but rolled with a tempting and soothing sauce - splendid indeed. Seared fillet of Herefordshire beef and fois grois on a potato rosti with Madeira and truffle oil came to me with egger anticipation. This was tender, pink, juicy, exciting, buttery with a lovely rich sauce.

Desserts

A trio of chocolate miniature desserts was shared between the family with a wonderful sticky pudding on the side. A British cheese selection came with apple and included a bright green sage derby which was quite unique. I am not sure this will be popular with everyone.