Sublime food and seamless service at The Martins

RETURN TO MASTERCHEF WINNER'S COUNTRY PUB

- By LYNETTE PINCHESS

THE crunch of the gravel as I pull into the car park signals I've arrived at The Martins.

Deemed one of Nottinghamshire's most popular country pubs, it entered a new chapter last year when former MasterChef: The Professionals champion Laurence Henry took it over.

Previously the Martin's Arms, the white brick rural inn in Colston Bassett has recently been rebranded because locals simply refer to it as The Martins. Last year it was treated to a makeover inside; more recently it's been the turn of the garden which at the time of the takeover was simply a lawn with a few tables and chairs.

What a difference as I walked through the bar to find a new terrace with light-coloured cushioned chairs and tables covered with stripy linen clothes and large parasols, which probably allow you to stay dry even if it rains. I was really taken aback in the best possible way by the changes.

The fully landscaped garden, with flower borders and olive trees, suddenly appears much bigger. The patio leads down to the lower level with more seating, from large oval tables for groups of 10 or more, to lounge furniture arranged around fire pits and a dedicated kids zone with tents, hay bales, sandpits and outdoor games.