Review: A cosy Christmas night out at The Plough & Harrow in Aldridge

The Plough & Harrow in Aldridge, part of the Premium Country Pubs Collection, leans into that idea beautifully with its festive menu, a cosy, seasonal experience that effortlessly gets you into the Christmas mood. With so many Premium Country Pubs dotted across the Midlands, it’s easy to see why these venues have become go-to destinations for winter dining.

We arrived ready to explore the three-course festive menu (£38.95), but quickly noticed the £15 “extra special” upgrade. It removes all dish supplements, turning premium dishes like scallops and the 10oz ribeye steak into fully included options and adds both a welcome drink plus a cocktail of your choice. As festive packages go, it’s excellent value and sets the tone for an evening that feels celebratory from the outset. I chose Chapel Down fizz, my date went for a pint of Peroni- a very generous welcome drink - and for our cocktails we picked a Limoncello Spritz and a Raspberry Ripple - a vodka-based, fruity, dessert-like dream.

The table was set with Christmas crackers, a charming seasonal touch, and of course I couldn’t resist opening mine immediately. Inside was the classic paper hat and a joke. Instinctively, I gave it a little shake, half-expecting a tiny plastic toy. Nothing. It got me thinking... imagine if the cracker was more than just a token gesture and contained a prize - a free starter, a complimentary drink, or a discount. A fun, festive mechanic, and a brilliant way to bring people back. Think higher-end McDonald’s Monopoly meets seasonal sparkle. I did once get over excited about winning a McDonald’s apple pie, so simple ideas are clearly my thing!

Starters set the tone for a strong evening. The Sea Salt & Cracked Black Pepper Squid with lobster-infused mayo was crisp, light, and miles away from any rubbery disappointment. My scallops with crispy prosciutto, roasted butternut and wild garlic salsa were equally impressive, beautifully cooked, light, and full of flavour.

For mains, we both chose the 10oz ribeye with peppercorn sauce. Even cooked medium to well (don’t judge me), my steak was juicy, tender, and full of depth. Given Miller & Carter sits within the same M&B family, they are clearly strong on their sourcing. The thick-cut chips were golden, chunky, and unapologetically addictive, the kind of side that feels purpose-built for winter.

Just before dessert, live music drifted through from the bar- an unexpected but incredibly charming festive touch. The singer was genuinely talented, moving from classics like Fleetwood Mac before launching into Gloria Gaynor. I’m not usually swayed by “I Will Survive”, but when she sang “think I’d crumble”, that was my cue and I went for it. And the crumble did not disappoint: warm, fruity, and exactly what a winter pudding should be. My date’s Festive Crème Brûlée, with raisins added for a bread-and-butter-pudding nod, worked surprisingly well and added a nostalgic warmth.

Service throughout was faultless. Our server, Poppy, was upbeat, attentive, and full of festive spirit. She told us she’s looking forward to working Christmas Day again this year because it “doesn’t feel like a regular shift and the vibe is so lovely,” and honestly, the whole evening carried that same warmth - relaxed guests, smooth service, and a cosy atmosphere despite the busy dining room.

The Plough & Harrow delivers good value, generous portions, and a genuinely festive evening out. A lovely way to celebrate December - and proof that sometimes, the quickest route to Christmas cheer is simply letting someone else do the cooking.

The festive menu runs until December 24 - visit premiumcountrypubcollection.co.uk to book or browse the menu.