Vale Hotel

Despite having grown up in the area, this was the first time I’d ever been inside Woodthorpe’s Vale Hotel.
It’s one of those places you just hope doesn’t get bought out by a chain, who would rip out all the original Art Deco fixtures and fittings in a blink of an eye.
That’s not to say that it couldn’t do with some care and attention; it’s looking pretty shabby in places inside, and clearly hasn’t been given a good redecoration in decades. But the friend I went there with and I were just marvelling at the amazing detailing; the mechanical looking toothed radiators in one dining area, the beautiful door handles, the monogrammed ventilation grills, the lovely glassed entrance. The regulars were looking a little bemused at our delight at the décor!
Some restoration would be perfect, but please no complete Eating Inn-​style revamp.
The food was basic, but very cheap. We couldn’t complain at the price. We are both vegetarians and chose for the veggie version of the carvery, but the main dish wasn’t available and just had to have the roast vegetables, Yorkshire puddings and stuffing. But for just over £5 it was fine.
I fared better on the dessert front. The Belgian waffles with fruits of the forest were delicious, but my friend wasn’t impressed by the apple pie which, it has to be said, looked pretty cardboardy.
If you’re looking for a nice meal out, I wouldn’t recommend it, but it’s definitely the place to go to if you want a cheap and cheerful way of filling your belly.
The beer patio is great on a hot day like the one on which we visited. But, be warned, it is on a major junction, so is pretty rowdy with passing vehicles.