The Blue Ball at Braunston
+44 1572 722135+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Sun
12:00 - 20:00
Wed
12:00 - 22:00
Thu
12:00 - 22:00
Fri
12:00 - 22:00
Sat
12:00 - 23:00
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travellers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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CUISINES
Bar, British, Pub, Healthy, Gastropub
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner, Drinks
features
Can a gluten free person get a good meal at this restaurant?
Details
About
“The warmest welcome and freshest food at Rutland’s oldest inn”. Historic Country Dining Pub with several dining rooms and plenty of outdoor seating. Dog friendly. Children welcome. Located opposite the church in the charming rural Rutland village of Braunston - 2 miles from Oakham / 5 miles from Rutland Water. Fresh, honest food Menu cooked to order from seasonal & local produce + children's portions/variations. Dining Table Bookings by phone, email or via website.
CUISINES
Bar, British, Pub, Healthy, Gastropub
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Seating, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Dog Friendly, Family style, Non-smoking restaurants
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4.5
583 reviews
Excellent
390
Very good
104
Average
38
Poor
32
Terrible
19
PaulaJanek
1 contribution
Jan 2020 • none
Fantastic service from start to finish. I have never left a review for anywhere before but feel I must comment on the excellent service I have received from Dominic and Pip here at The BlueBall in Braunston. I won’t go into the ‘ins and outs’ of the surprise 50th Birthday party prinks that we organised there yesterday because it was complicated; I was unsure as to how many people or even what time. It was unusual as I was not requiring lunch or dinner but a bespoke arrangement of food at a time that the kitchen was not normally open! I must have been a tricky customer but I had lots of email communication with Dominic where he took the time and made a lot of effort to fully understand what I was hoping for and he made helpful and creative suggestions as to how my wishes could be accommodated. Suffice to say, we had a fabulous afternoon, everything we’d agreed was executed professionally and helpfully in a cosy and comfortable environment. All of my guests, who had travelled some distance, were of a wide age range and didn’t all know each other, were impressed and spoke of how beautiful the pub was and how welcome they were made to feel. The food was lovely and plentiful, particularly the chips! Can’t recommend highly enough. Thank you to everyone who must have worked hard to ensure our satisfaction.
Written 26 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BlueBall
Just happy that you were all happy and that the birthday boy didn’t have an inkling and loved
It
Written 27 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Matthew B
6 contributions
Mar 2020 • family
We were staying in the area with friends to celebrate my mother’s birthday. We arrived just after 5pm on 6th March & instantly felt at home.
We received a warm greeting & sat next to the roaring fire which was a nice relief from the cold outside.
The food & customer service is exceptional here, really second to none.
I can firmly recommend the delicious Game pie! The Barman/owner was brilliant, friendly & attentive - particularly towards my elderly, disabled father, whose appetite is not what it once was & who ordered something he was served & then decided he did not fancy.
It was no trouble for him to suggest something else, more simple for my dad that he might prefer & dads eyes lit up when he mentioned ham, egg & chips’.
This was not a simple egg & chips but delicious sliced local ham & homemade chips which my father enjoyed immensely.
In today’s world, with today’s challenges & stresses & strains it’s not often that you visit such a warm & cosy place that delivers so much more than excellent food & drink, which leaves you happy, contented & with a spring in your step.
The Blue Ball is truly 5 STAR.
Written 7 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BlueBall
Delighted to hear how happy you all were with what we work hard in the background to continue to offer here at our historic country pub - a relaxed retreat from the hurry and hub bub where you’ll be properly taken care of and served lovely fresh food, cooked to order. Although have to say it helps to be guardians of such lovely building, in such a charming setting too welcome amiable and appreciative customers, such as yourselves to.
Written 8 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brad1eyC
Oakham10 contributions
Mar 2020 • family
We visited this little country pub for Sunday lunch, as soon as we walked through the door it was really welcoming, the staff were really helpful and nothing was too much.
We have a 7 months old baby who it just in the midst of weaning, the staff found him a proper highchair, not a wooden one you often find in eateries but I really good sturdy chair he was safe in. There is also a play area with lots of toys we were able to keep our little boy amused with.
We were sat on our own table in a little area away from diners which was brilliant for our little one as he could play and eat and be messy without disturbing anyone else.
Our order was taken quickly and the food served really quickly, we didn’t have wait long at all. The staff even made a little plate of vegetables and some fruit for our baby to munch on which we weren’t charged for. The meal itself was delicious and the staff made sure everything was ok throughout.
Definitely recommend, delicious food, friendly staff, a warm atmosphere and excellent for small children
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BettyBoo222
Thank you for taking the time and trouble to post your review of your recent visit for a Sunday Lunch with your little one. Just pleased that you were all so happy with everything. Our ethos here is that 3 generations of a family should be able to sit around a table together and ALL have a relaxed and enjoyable time...and we have lots of cosy corners for couples who want a quiet meal out.
Written 11 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stuart K
Melton Mowbray58 contributions
Dec 2019 • business
Me and my seven colleagues went to the Blue Bell for Christmas lunch. As is my experience in life, I don't believe the Christmas menu is generally as good as restaurant's typical menu, however this is all I have to go on.
The food was good. I had the parsnip soup, mushroom Wellington and Christmas Pudding. The portions were small and few of the team were still hungry afterwards. Though it must be said or team is made of individuals with large appetites.
The interior of the pub is periodic and a pleasure to be in. It belongs in the rural beauty that is Rutland.
The thing that harmed the overall experience was being charged twice for two rounds of drinks. This was made worse by the staff insisting with aggression that we had not paid the full amount. Eventually they conceded but my team will not return next year.
Written 5 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BettyBoo222
Genuinely sorry that you were overcharged for a round of drinks. By our recollection, this was resolved amicably and was a genuine mix up with entering tickets into the till but we have to take your word if you felt otherwise. Although there is no Mushroom Wellington on the Christmas Menu and you had Nut Roast, we’re glad that you found the food good although were a bit surprised that you felt the portions were small and are sorry to hear that, due to a mix up with the round of drinks, you are not minded to return.
Written 6 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rutlander2013
46 contributions
Mar 2020 • none
Just had the takeaway sunday lunch from the Blue Ball due to the closure and it was gorgeous. Lovely roast beef with the trimmings and even a pot of rich gravy to accompany it. I am so glad that they are continuing to do business through the corona closure and the takeaway sunday lunch may become a regular occurrence. Well done Dom & Pip
Written 22 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BlueBall
Glad you enjoyed it. Our takeaways are every bit as good as our in house food was. Until we’re able to fully re open, it’s heartwarming that customers can still enjoy our famous Sunday Roasts to enjoy at home. See you next time. Remember can now TEXT TAKEAWAY ORDERS to 07377954176 or CALL 01572 722135
Written 31 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ian W
Leicester119 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
We visit the blue bell for some lunch on Saturday. The setting was great , a nice log burning fire going on in the snug .
We were given the menu that had some thing for everybody’s choice , the daily specials were read out out to us all very nice . This was our second visit and not our last .
Written 5 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BettyBoo222
Very pleased to hear how much you enjoy coming here and look forward to seeing you again.
Written 6 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Esther H
Northolt42 contributions
May 2022 • none
Converging in Rutland from East Yorkshire and London, we booked a table for 4 for Sunday lunch. The booking was made with Bups, who said he was the manager.
We arrived at the restaurant on time and were shown to our table indoors. When we asked the waitress for the drinks menu, she said there wasn't one and reeled off a list of soft drinks. We ordered 4 and they arrived- a very slim glass each of lemonade and grapefruit and 2 Coca Colas. (These were subsequenty billed at £12.00 and incorrectly recorded as "pints").
We awaited our meal of 2 Blue Ball Burgers and 2 Roast Chickens. What a disappointment!! The Burgers were overcooked and dense and difficult to cut into and quite tasteless.
The chicken was OK - no more than standard pub fare. Throughout the meal we had to drive away flies from our table, despite being seated indoors. This did not make for a pleasant eating experience. The staff saw this but offered no help.
We decided to have our desserts elsewhere at a more comfortable, fly free environment. We paid our bill of £90.00 and left, only to discover that we had been overcharged for both the starters and the main meal.
Unimpressive all round!
Written 17 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hoots
Oakham3 contributions
Dec 2020 • none
We enjoyed a really delicious meal in this welcoming and cozy village pub, with food that was out of the ordinary.
The smoked haddock scotch egg starter was coated in a light and non greasy crumb, the inside was soft and fluffy, herb flecked smoky fish and an egg with just the right amount of oozy softness in the centre. It sat on a delicate but aromatic curry sauce that was clearly made with freshly ground spices, and finished with a slick of herb oil. I'd happily have eaten two or three on their own as a substantial meal.
The vegetarian and vegan choices are unusual and enticing which is not always the case in this part of the world. The cauliflower steak was accompanied by an oat granola which provided delicious flavour bombs of toasted walnuts and fennel seeds
and satisfied even the hungriest of teenagers, accompanied by some great triple cooked chips.
We have eaten in the Blue Ball many times over the years but the food hasn't always been the main reason to go there. A new chef and menu has taken the food to a different league. I'm just hoping it doesn't get too popular to snag a table on a Friday night!
Written 11 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BettyBoo222
Just happy that you were all happy. Thank you fir your support
Written 12 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Una R
3 contributions
Jan 2020 • couples
We visited the pub during the day, and it is such a lovely place, we decided to eat there that evening. We were both disappointed with the meal. We ordered liquor coffees, and asked for one to be made without sugar. What a mistake. It looked awful, although at least I could taste the brandy. My husband couldn't taste the whisky! It was his 70th birthday, and it was a let down.
Written 6 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BettyBoo222
Sorry to hear that you were disappointed with your meal here. Regrettably, aside from the liqueur coffees, you don’t say, and didn’t say at the time, what you found disappointing, which makes it rather difficult to respond or rectify any issues for you retrospectively. We really would wish to know there and then if anything appears amiss as we would have done all in our power to resolve this to your satisfaction while we still had the opportunity.
Regarding liqueur coffees, we’re not sure if you’re aware that the sugar (brown sugar) isn’t just for taste but is actually what makes the cream float! “Whether you take sugar in your coffee or not, it is essential here, and not just for flavour. Without it, your cream won’t float....it also amplifies the drink’s flavours.” The Guardian - How to make the perfect Irish Coffee.St Patrick’s Day 2019.
So we’re afraid that, even after shaking the double cream to aerate it somewhat and using a warm spoon, it just isn’t possible to make it look as separated and attractive as it otherwise does, and as the one with sugar did. Each coffee contained a single measure of brandy or whisky, so not at all sure why your husband couldn’t taste his.
Written 7 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lucy C
Stamford58 contributions
Jan 2022 • family
Having visited the Blue Ball twice previously, we were very disappointed to have a much less enjoyable experience this time. Our Sunday lunch was over-cooked - both meat and vegetables. The potatoes were reheated and the beef very tough and well done even though we had asked for it pink. The French Onion soup was not as one would expect - it was served with a large crouton sprinkled with Red Leicester rather than the expected topping of Gruyère. Unfortunately we shall not return.
Written 30 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kevin D
Nottingham1143 contributions
Dec 2020 • couples
You know when you've just finished your dinner, and you're looking forward to returning, something has gone right.
So what went right on our first visit?
The Manager fitting us in on a table for two when we called in the morning last minute 👍
The ambience of the Village Pub when you walked in, the warmth of the fires 👍
Safety measures in place throughout the Pub to meet COVID-19 👍
The food was to the highest standard, my wife had the venison burger, and commented, possibly the best burger she'd had in a long time 👍
For me I had the rump steak not to be mistaken for a very fine fillet, cooked to perfection with chunky chips, oven baked tomatoes, mushroom, and home made crispy batter onion rings.
We found the service was friendly and polite 👍
The dining experience ticked every box, and having visited 100's of restaurants around the UK, this is up there with the best.
Congratulations to all the staff front and back, and not forgetting the Chef and his team.
Keep up the service and top food 👍👍👍
Written 14 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jasper T
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • family
We trekked out in the snow and were welcomed by a lovely fire, fairy lights and a super atmosphere. The attentive service from the friendly owner was fabulous and we were made to feel so welcome. The service was attentive, with drinks presented in lovely glasses that made your drinking experience special, not thick heavyset cheap glasses. The menu was varied with pub classics and more gastro pub dishes on offer. The presentation of the food was great and nicely sized portions so we were full when we left and felt we got good value for money. All the plates were empty. We left with a good feeling in our souls and in our stomachs and can’t wait to go back!
Written 8 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CMS06
Huddersfield11 contributions
Jun 2021 • couples
We dinned on June 12th, it was our first meal out for months.
It could not have been better, we ate outside in the sunshine and enjoyed a superb meal.. afterwards we spoke with the owner who said they had had a struggle to keep going through the lockdowns, but that they had a very chef.. That was an understatement.. they have an amazing chef.
We would recommend The Blue Ball to anyone interest in great food at a sensible price.
Our problem is that we live 190 miles away!
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Clare O
21 contributions
Mar 2022 • none
We had eaten here last year and were very impressed. Today very disappointed. Service very slow food took 40 minutes to come duck
over cooked as were the vegetables and sweet potatoes burnt. Had to ask for pudding menu. The bar was often left unattended. Sad that is become so ordinary will not return
Written 26 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eddie Walker
Birmingham7 contributions
Oct 2021 • couples
We called in at The Blue Ball having read reviews and noting it was dog friendly. It was an excellent experience - and our dog thoroughly enjoyed it as well. ! Good selection of drinks and the food was excellent ! I had the fish and chips and whoever caught that fish must’ve “needed a bigger boat !” My wife also thoroughly enjoyed her seafood linguine. A visit is well recommended.
Written 20 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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