On our recent trip to Shrewsbury, we had the absolute pleasure of dining at The Boathouse. This was a memorable experience for a few reasons and all of them good.
The Boathouse is one of Shrewsbury’s most loved historic pubs. Its stunning location on the banks of the River Severn allows it magnificent views of the river and the Quarry park.
Renowned for its sun drenched terrace and extensive beer garden, it’s the perfect place to watch the boats and ducks go by. In the winter the log fire is always lit and hearty grills, roasts and delicious desserts and puddings are served in the oak beamed interiors.
It was autumn when we visited and we were stopped in our tracks by the beauty of this gorgeous building, illuminated against the night sky. We instantly kicked into Instagram mode!
It was a very cold, wet and windy night, but inside was a welcoming warm sanctuary and the waft of food was literally mouthwatering.
Dining
The Boathouse specialises in fantastic pub classics with a twist, we were told the Shropshire Gold Battered Haddock Fillet is a hit all year round, and the charcoal cooked steaks and burgers are very popular with the locals .
The menu has been designed to use the best local produce from Shropshire, this with the friendly service and fantastic views of the River Severn create a dining experience we think everyone will enjoy.
What we ate
We always ask for recommendations. We don’t always follow them it has to be said, but on this occasion we did and what a great decision this turned out to be. I started with Beetroot Hummus – feta, pomegranate, dukkha, micro coriander, cucumber, spring onion, chilli, herb oil and pitta.
A generous portion was set before me and I had to exercise strong self-control not to polish off the lot! It was beyond delicious, so many ingredients involved but it was a marriage made in heaven. The only reason I forced myself to leave some was to be able to fully appreciate my main course of Pan Fried Chicken – Shropshire blue cheese sauce, potato dauphinoise, wild mushrooms, crispy onions and seasonal greens.
The chicken was succulent and tender, the blue cheese sauce delicate enough to complement the other ingredients and not overpower them, and the dauphinoise and wild mushrooms were very moreish, I was tempted to go full Oliver Twist and ask for more! But that would have been greedy, especially as I was too full for dessert.
My dining partner started with Crispy Calamari – spring onion, chilli and sweet chilli sauce. This came as a surprise as he’s not really a Calamari person but he loved it! I think we have a convert.
His main course came recommended from the ‘Specials’, dishes which would be joining the main menu due to their popularity. Pork Belly – fondant potato, roast apple and burnt apple sauce, black pudding bonbon, seasonal greens, onion gravy. I thought for a minute he was going to lick the plate!
What a meal, what a talented team of chefs, superb recommendations from Tom, the manager, we just couldn’t fault the whole experience. And that’s saying something.
Boatshed
The Boatshed is the private party room for The Boathouse, it is right on the water’s edge on the banks of the River Severn. Big enough for seating 28 guests inside and more out on the terrace it’s great for birthday parties, christenings, friends’ get togethers, or any excuse for a party you can think of.
The boatshed has its own buffet style menu, this changes seasonally and can be tweaked to suit the occasion.
If you are lucky enough to live in Shrewsbury, we really envy you. If you are planning a visit to Shrewsbury or anywhere in Shropshire, after a visit here you will be thanking us for the recommendation.
Oh, and tell them we sent you.
01743 231 658
[email protected]
The boathouse is open every day 12pm-11pm.
Food is served:
12-2.30pm + 6-9pm Mon-Thurs
12-9pm Fri + Sat + Sun
The Boathouse Bar + Grill
New Street, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY3 8JQ
For more information about the area visit www.visitshropshire.co.uk
