Kokova Magazine

Located in the South East district of Tandridge, the Barley Mow is a wonderfully appointed country pub at the heart of the local Surrey community, serving customers keen to appreciate traditional values, with the very best of modern methods. Dating back to the 1800s, and withstanding covid, the Barley Mow has recently seen a new cooperative take over the reins and bring this quaint village pub back to life.

Actually, it is one of our nearest pubs and restaurants and we could, at a push on a warm summer evening, walk to visit. Having done this pre-covid, we have to say we didn't often stretch out legs that far - but last night we decided to drive past and give it another try. The local burger bar was closed and, if we are honest, we wanted a quick meal out that was not too far from home.

On arrival, we were pleasantly surprised to see the exterior had changed colour, and lots of twinkly lights lit our way in. We were warmly greeted as soon as we walked in. Colin showed us to a cosy window seat where he told us about the new management, and how the pub had changed. It seems a collection of people have taken over the venture, to revive this ancient watering hole. Now it serves a variety of patrons from early morning walkers, parents dropping off their children at the local school, and even the local horse riders as they pass their way.

As we are always having to eat free-from something, we were pleased to see the menu included dietary options. Since we couldn't get a burger (as was our earlier choice) we felt that called for an upgrade to steak, and we asked for a couple of medium-rare, gluten and dairy-free rump steaks. With a separate fryer used to cook the chips, and the use of locally sourced produce, the only part we needed to avoid was extra steak sauces.

Steaks are a hard one. They can be so very good, or over-cooked. The chef got this one right on cooking, as the steaks arrived spot on medium rare. It is always a little sad not to be able to take advantage of the lovely sauces on offer but they all contain dairy. The vegan ice cream on the dessert menu more than makes up for this though! The Barley Mow has a good selection of drinks on offer, so a passion fruit gin seemed a good liquid choice, mixed with a Fentimans' connoisseurs tonic water.

The Barley Mow feels it is important to support the best of local farmers and producers, so they use the finest poultry and fish, and free-range beef, pork, and lamb, all sourced from trusted local suppliers. Every morning from 8 am, seven days a week they open their Garden Window to offer award-winning Union Hand-Roasted Coffee, plus sourdough bread, sweet treats, and savouries from the legendary Paul Rhodes Artisan Bakery of Greenwich.

Taking you through from breakfast to supper, there is a new selection at the Barley Mow in Tandridge, and they have some great feature nights planned too. Book now at the Barley Mow, Tandridge.