Situated in the historic Park area of Nottingham, The Walton provides the perfect retreat. Built as a hunting lodge in the early 1800’s, this unique residence has retained many of its original features. A 10-minute walk from the centre of Nottingham, you can be cosying up in front of their blazing log fire.
The contemporary hotel always looks beautiful at Christmas, but this year it has really surpassed itself. Entering through an archway of glittering fairy lights, we are led into the bar area. The lounge has comfy leather seating. We relax in front of a roaring fire with a picture-perfect Christmas tree in the corner. Stockings are hung by the chimney with care. I feel like we’ve stepped into a Christmas card, the scene is so cosy.
Through in what is known as The Monkey Bar, due to its unique decor, another tall Christmas tree stands glistening in the corner. It’s certainly looking a lot like Christmas at the Walton and the atmosphere is a little more special as the restaurant has been fully renovated to bring the style and feel in line with the rest of the Grade two listed building.
Dramatic dark colours adorn the walls alongside rich wood panelling and sumptuous leather banquettes. Gilt-edged mirrors and paintings accent the walls whilst chandeliers create a warm glow.
I actually thought we’d been invited along to sample a Christmas dinner. What we’re actually presented with is their Winter menu, which will be served throughout December, so not a turkey nor a Christmas pudding in sight tonight.
The food we did have though was delicious. I took my Mum with me and we each tried something different. To start I had the Wild Mushroom, Spinach & Butternut Squash Tartlet with Crumbled Goats Cheese and Wild Rocket, which was very tasty. I had been tempted to have the Pan Seared King Scallops, which were enjoyed by my Mum, but I’d resisted due to the Black Pudding Crumb. Having seen the dish though, don’t let that put you off if you’re not a fan of black pudding like me, it is just a sprinkling of the Black Pudding Crumb, and by all accounts, the meal was delicious.
My main course was Mediterranean Vegetable Wellington which was served with Slow Roasted Vine Tomato Sauce, Sweet Potato Fries and Wild Rocket. It didn’t have the most A’ la carte of appearances but tasted good. Mum likes her steak well done and was more than happy with the 10oz 28 Day Matured Derbyshire Centre Cut Sirloin Steak which she tucked into. Served with skinny fries and a perfectly seasoned Peppercorn Sauce.
To finish I had the indulgent Double Chocolate Fudge Nut Brownie served with Warm Chocolate Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream. Just my type of rich dessert. Mum went for the slightly lighter option of the Classic Eaton mess, served with a Berry Compote, Crushed Meringue and smooth Chantilly Cream.
We had a fabulous evening in beautiful surroundings. I’d definitely recommend you add the Walton to your Christmas list of places to dine this season. A selection of festive tipples await in the bar. Bar manager Rory has created some special Christmas cocktails to toast the festive season with, which include White Russian, Spiced Apple Martini, Espresso Martini, The Democrat and The Walton Winter Cup – Pimms, rum and ginger ale.
Operations Manager Paul Stafford said: “Christmas is a really special time at The Walton as now decorated the rooms feel so festive and cosy. We really think that people will love the winter menu as there are some really tempting dishes and the restaurant and rooms provide a festive haven to escape the crowds and relax and celebrate the festive season in beautiful surroundings.”
The restaurant is open seven days a week from Monday to Friday between 4.00pm-10.00pm and Saturdays from 12.00pm until 10.00pm and finally Sundays from 12.00pm till 6.00pm including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year so to book your Christmas meal please visit www.thewaltonhotel.com or call 0115 9475215.
You can also book through https://www.booking.com
By Tanya Louise
Editor
@tanyalouise_
