The Sandpiper

Went to the Sandpiper for lunch on our way to Martin Mere. It is part of the Vintage Inn chain so it is very nicely done out with comfy seating, clean lines and exposed beams. I have eaten at a few Vintage Inns before and the food is always good and there is a lot to choose from on the menu. The standard of food at the Sandpiper was no different. I ordered the fish pie which was full of fish and the mash potato was lovely and creamy. My husband’s burger and chips was also very good. I also liked the fact that you could choose a small pudding and a coffee for dessert. I had the sherry trifle which was amazing, the homemade custard tasted divine.
The only thing stopping me giving the Sandpiper 4 stars is the service. It was surly from start to finish and we had to wait ages for them to clear away the plates after our main meal. In fact they took them away at the same time that our desserts arrived. Think some customer service training is desperately needed here.

Originally went here for my birthday a month ago and the service was great and the food was amazing, until tonight.
I have never been so disapointed.
Booked a table in advance which was all fine, the dissapointment and annoyance began as we tried to order.
Our server for the evening was BEN! We booked our table for 8.30pm and he told us they stop taking orders at 9 which made us feel rush to order our food.
Our Food order took nearly 45 mins to come and we had to send a plate back as we requested medium steak and it came to us Burnt to a crisp. We found out afterwards it was told to the kitchen wrong, which makes sense as Ben did not write any of our orders down so not surprised it was wrong. My partners side order of vegetables were all disappointing as they were incredibly limp and soggy.
We tired to order more drinks and he took one order and as I tried to ask for a drink he walked away ignorong me. It was like they wanted to rush everything so he could go home at end of service.
This is a very dissapointing evening After a first visit which was amazing.
This particular member of staff needs to learn some manners and not make people feel so rushed.
Rating is including previous visit.

Characterful pub with food. Recently refurbished after a kitchen fire. Now has better service than before and the food seems to have improved. Good selection of beers also. Multiple menu’s are too complex and need combining and simplifying. Also can be expensive with some starters overpriced, so have to chose carefully.