On the way back from visiting relations over the border in The Lake District we called in to try the refurbished Plough at Lupton.  The Plough is no longer the venue for Wild West quick draw competitions (although that was a long long time ago!) the newly launched Plough has been transformed into a fine dining, gastro pub with a difference, “Small Plates” not a new or revolutionary idea and similar to the popular tapas concept but it is well done and perfect for me,  I can try several smaller portions from the menu instead of having to make do with just trying one dish also helps with my indecisive ways!

From the menu “We have taken a slightly different approach to the menu, Gone is three course formality (starter, main & pud!) and in its place a modern way to eat with flexibility and freedom of choice mnot found in many places.   “Small Plates” offers a variety of grazing dishes, combining influences from all over the world, each designed to share from the middle of the table – in the style of tapas or yum cha.  The size and style gives an opportunity to taste a wide range of dishes or simply have a quick bite.  We would recommend starting with one or two per person and take it from there!”

The building appears to have been sympathetically restored and remodelled with lots of antique furniture, tables and sideboards and plenty of oak beams but with a clean decor.

The Food:-  We tried a selection of small plates including belly pork with apple, Air dried ham with Gorgonzola cheese & figs, pumpkin soup, dripping fried chips and grilled chicken skewers.

The Beer:- a great local selection including Jennings – Cumberland, Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery – Monumental, Green Dragon also from Kirkby and a couple of beers from further afield in Hobgoblin and Banks’s Bitter.  I tried the local Blonde, Monumental at 4.5% abv.

The wine list also looked extensive and a couple of temperature controlled wine cellars are incorporated into corners of the dining room.

The Plough Inn, Lupton Website