I have been to the Merlin a few times in the past 6 months and I have to admit the food is very good and reasonably priced. The only downside is the amount of Kids running around the dining area. I have nothing against kids but when they are sent to play in areas well away from their parents it is annoying. There is enough room in the Merlin to have a dedicated childrens area and until they have this I will not be eating there again. The kids, totally unsupervised, were in and out of the back door, and we all know Kids don't shut doors behind them - it was freezing. It has the makings of a good pub but is spoilt by a few parents who have no control over their kids.
Noc50
We visited the Merlin today,it's close to where we live and we used to visit often but it went downhill,my goodness what a change much cleaner and brighter great food two of us ate a 2 course meal for £13 special offer for lunch times.We also had a look at the function room very nice.Well worth a visit and we will visit regularly again.
Overwhelmed
After a few recommendations as to how it had changed since new management, we booked a small buffet lunch for our daughters wedding.
For the amount we paid, the food was exceptional, totally fresh, and perfect quantities, and every one of the guests enjoyed the offerings. It is not often that you can please everyone, but in this case it was true. All could hardly move afterwards.
The staff were great, no problem too small, and everything was perfect. Well done The Merlin.
Jam
This place has improved above expectations
The food is exceptional and the staff friendly and helpful
A well looked Pub & Restaurant and definitely a place to visit
pub rater 07
please visit the merlin soon, as it has recently been taken over. the food has improved, the atmosphere is good, the playbarn has been cleaned and re-opened and the service is more than 'acceptable', if anything the bar staff are far more welcoming than that of other local public houses.
Sixkiller
We've been visiting the Merlin on and off for a few years and whilst it has been going through a dodgy period, things are definitely picking up. The food was good, especially on the offer, and the atmosphere is clean and friendly. A good focus on families - our kids were treated well by the staff although the Playbarn could do with a clean. Overall, good work!