The Twisted Tree

Not so long ago the Mexboro’ Arms Hotel was down on its luck, languishing by the roadside, but that was before the Beal family stepped in to reshape its fortunes. Seeing the building’s potential, they have created a stylish gift shop and vintage emporium with the adjoining Twisted Tree café.

There’s a charm to the rustic décor, with its wood-clad counter, industrial coat hooks and old maps wallpapering the dining room. Food is all freshly cooked and never processed, so you could stop in for a croque madame, halloumi fries or steak, morning to night. Take your platefuls through to the sunny conservatory at the back if you can grab a table – it’s a fantastic spot with the bi-fold doors flung back on a summer’s day.

But it’s the service that really sets The Twisted Tree apart from its peers. Staff make a noticeable effort to make every customer welcome. The steady procession of regulars is testament to owner Chris’s simple philosophy: ‘We don’t want to do anything clever; I want my customers to come in, have a great coffee and leave with a smile on their face.’