10oz Horseshoe Gammon Steak with Pineapple

What reward could justify a 100 plus mile journey taken mainly on public transport with a two-and-a-half year old? Well, apart from the excitement of surprising my sister by arriving unannounced in her north-east village for a weekend visit, it was the thought of a hearty meal at traditional pub, The Shepherd and Shepherdess, in Beamish that sustained Kasper and me over four hours, two trains and one bus.


Known locally as 'The Shep', it has recently been refurbished and is warm and welcoming. Pub favourites such as burgers, cajun chicken, scampi and, of course, shepherd's pie are on offer on a good sized menu which shows the kitchen has decided to do what they do exceptionally well, instead of offering endless options done badly. 


I opted for gammon and pineapple (£10.95) which came with a fresh and interesting salad, homemade coleslaw and onion rings and moreish chips. It was delicious and just what I needed after a long journey.