Cross Keys Inn

A lovely, friendly and comfortable stay. Our room was very clean and had everything we needed, and the bathroom was spotless. The staff were friendly and helpful, and we had a lovely evening meal in the restaurant as well as a really good breakfast the following morning. The location was ideal for our first overnight stop on our NC500 road trip. Despite being at a pub, it was surprisingly peaceful and quiet, which we really appreciated after a 300-mile drive. Overall, we felt it was good value for money.

Unfortunately, there was a rather worrying problem when we first arrived. The staff couldn't initially locate our booking and repeatedly told us they were fully booked. After some searching, they eventually found the reservation and explained that it was due to an issue with their computer system. After travelling 300 miles, the thought that we might not actually have a room was quite a shock! The only other minor issue was the television, which had visual assistance switched on and we couldn't work out how to turn it off, meaning we had a running commentary while watching TV.

The bed was soooo comfortable. The location was ideal. The food was great. The staff were lovely.

The bathroom was clean but needed updating.

Ideal location for our purposes. Big car park and beer garden at the rear. A typical old village pub which has been expanded over the years. Friendly staff and straightforward check in. Old fashioned bar area with low black beams (so plenty of opportunities for taller people to bump their head) and my room was immediately above where the floor followed the contours of the beams below! Pleasant room, comfy bed, tea and coffee in room. Strong shower and plenty of hot water. Food was excellent; both evening meal and cooked breakfast in a modern restaurant extension. Well stocked bar. Would happily stay again.

I did ask for a quiet room but being put above the bar meant it wasn't quiet until the pub emptied. Oner of the smallest bathrooms I've seen prompting one of my fellow travellers to say it was like getting into a wardrobe!

Handy for the M6. A good selection of beers. A good area for cycle touring.

Room was small for the amount paid, only a regular sized double bed. Breakfast was poor. No bacon; unless you happen to be vegan/Muslim/vegetarian this is unacceptable. Had to make our own tea and coffee from an urn of hot water, tea bags and sachets of coffee. Had to ask for a second slice of toast to go with two poached eggs. Then had to ask for more toast for the table. OK to not have bacon if there is a superb Continental selection - there wasn't, just cereal. Carpark round the front is too small and the rear carpark was full of caravans and poorly lit. Not convinced that the radiator in the bedroom is working properly. Not prepared to go back later in autumn to chance it. Above all the lack of bacon for breakfast.