I CAN only describe The Bull at Shocklach as a hidden gem.

Thankfully my partner had been there before and knew where it was but for me it was a first.

The Bull dates back to 1850 with a quirky, gorgeous patchwork floor of hand painted tiles. It is a family friendly pub and restaurant a stone’s throw from the village of Malpas, located just 20 minutes drive north of Wrexham.

It was a Thursday night when we decided we both couldn't be bothered to cook so ventured out for a bite to eat. I have to admit the Bull was not our first choice. The first placed we tried we couldn't find a parking space so on to Shocklach we drove and I am so glad we did.

The interior and the staff were most welcoming and after a quick look at the menu I decided upon fish of the day, my favourite hake, with roast fennel, baby potatoes and carrots while my partner opted for pie of the day, turkey with garden peas and chips cooked in beef dripping.

My fish was fabulous, cooked to perfection and as for the fennel I could have eaten a plate of that by itself, it was stunning.

The pie went down a treat too with succulent turkey pieces, mustard seed and a slight cheesy flavour to it all topped off with a flaky pastry crust. And as for the chips they were just like my mum used to make. Deep fried in beef dripping, scrummy.

The only thing that let the experience down for me were the noisy customers on the table next to us. Don't get me wrong I am not a total grinch and like to hear chat and eat in a place that has a great atmosphere but when I go out for a meal I don't want to hear constant shouting and screaming from my fellow diners. At one stage we were practically yelling at each in order to hear each others conversation!

That aside I will be going back to The Bull. It was a pretty pub with delicious food and excellent service.

How it rated:

The Bull Shocklach, Worthenbury Road, near Malpas. Telephone: 01829 250335

Ambience - 7/10

Service - 9/10

Food quality - 9/10

Children welcome - yes

Disabled access - yes