The majority of venues in the town centre serve the same bland, standard pub fare and it was for this reason that my dining companion and I decided to go further a field.

We arrived in Edwinstowe hopeful of finding a menu more expansive than the usual selection of burgers, baguettes and bangers and mash –– and we were not disappointed.

First impressions of The Forest Lodge, on Church Street, were very good and I was particularly glad to see a good range of real ales lining the bar.

We received a warm welcome as we entered and the snug dining area with its open log fire and dim lighting felt cosy without being cramped.

The menu –– which included pub classics such as scampi –– was complemented with a vast specials board offering a wide range of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes.

I opted for the swordfish steak with king prawns in a tarragon sauce, while my friend chose the tuna loin with chilli and balsamic vinegar.

The food arrived promptly and the meals came with a generous serving of boiled potatoes and vegetables.

Both meals were excellently prepared and the juicy prawns and succulent swordfish were wonderfully complemented by the subtle flavours of the tarragon sauce.

My only criticism of the meal was that the vegetables –– thickly cut hunks of carrot, broccoli and cauliflower –– were more suited to a traditional Sunday lunch, rather than a delicately flavoured fish dish.

Both meals cost £10.50 each, making The Forest Lodge more expensive than an average chain pubs, but the high standard of food and generous portions meant it was still good value for money.

So if you're looking for a well cooked meal in a relaxing environment with good beer and friendly staff, my advice to you would be to check out the Forest Lodge.