"The Castle Coaching Inn is painted bright peach but don't let that put you off.

Once you're inside the Georgian building, there is a warm welcome from the staff and a cosy atmosphere.

Diners can choose to sit in either the restaurant or more informal pub area which is adorned with remnants from local History and dominated by a massive wooden bar.

We settled down at a big wooden table in the bar area, near to the open fire in the corner. It was lucky we arrived early and got a good table, as the bar quickly filled with locals as well as tourists staying in the 3 star Hotel rooms upstairs.

The menu had a large selection of dishes, with the beef and lamb sourced from local farmers. There was also a selection of meals for children.

I went for baked mushrooms with aubergine and stilton to start. Although it sounded like an unusual combination, the mushrooms were meaty and stilton complimented them well. My friends chicken satay was a success too, tender with a thick peanut sauce.

For my main course I had a very tasty salmon fillet marinated in lemon and and tarragon with new potatoes and vegetables prepared to perfection.

My friends steak with stilton and red onions was mouth-wateringly tender and cooked exactly as he'd wanted it, served with a baked spud and seasonal veg.

After such a big main course, we could only manage ice cream for dessert. The lemon sorbet was nicely tart and chocolate chip ice cream really rich and creamy.

The staff at the Castle Coaching Inn were friendly and very relaxed. It is the perfect place to have a leisurely meal and take your time over hearty dishes. The bar area would also be a great venue for a family meal as the owners warmly welcome children accompanied.

We felt so laid back after our food we had to have filter coffees before setting off on our drive home."

By Lucy Ballinger, Wales on Sunday

Starters: Baked mushrooms with aubergine and stilton £4.50; chicken satay with peanut sauce £4.50

Mains: Salmon marinated in lemon and tarragon with new potatoes and vegetables £10.95; 8oz Welsh fillet steak with stilton and roasted red onions choice of salad or vegetables and chips, new potatoes or baked potatoes £14.95

Dessert: Lemon sorbet £3; chocolate chip ice cream £3; filter coffee £1.35

Drinks: Large white wine £3.75; large lemonade £1.30

Total: £48.65

Food: 9/10

Service: 8/10

Value for money: 8/10

Our verdict: A great place for a relaxed family meal