The Ugly Duckling
A modern European gem renowned for its exceptional food, especially beef dishes and complimentary cheese rolls, offering great value.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Ugly Duckling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern European gem renowned for its exceptional food, especially beef dishes and complimentary cheese rolls, offering great value.
Request to avoid the back room
For a more lively atmosphere, ask to be seated away from the back room, which can feel dark and empty.
Thursdays Steak Deal
Take advantage of special offers, such as two steaks for £21, available on Thursdays.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Modern European
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1594 786069
Address
3 Swan Rd, Lydney, GL15 5RU, United Kingdom
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Complimentary Cheese & Parsley Rolls
Warm, cheesy, and herbaceous rolls are a delightful free starter, praised as 'heaven' by many.
Sunday Roast Excellence
Tender, moist beef, whether pink or well-done, makes for a standout Sunday roast experience.
Unique Set Menu Offerings
From duck breast with potato rosti to succulent belly pork, the set menu offers creative and well-executed dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Request to avoid the back room
For a more lively atmosphere, ask to be seated away from the back room, which can feel dark and empty.
Thursdays Steak Deal
Take advantage of special offers, such as two steaks for £21, available on Thursdays.
Book in advance is essential
Due to its popularity and limited seating, booking ahead is highly recommended.
Don't miss the warm rolls
The complimentary cheese and parsley warm rolls are a must-try and a delightful free starter.
Tips
from all over the internet
Request to avoid the back room
For a more lively atmosphere, ask to be seated away from the back room, which can feel dark and empty.
Thursdays Steak Deal
Take advantage of special offers, such as two steaks for £21, available on Thursdays.
Book in advance is essential
Due to its popularity and limited seating, booking ahead is highly recommended.
Don't miss the warm rolls
The complimentary cheese and parsley warm rolls are a must-try and a delightful free starter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Ugly Duckling is highly praised for its stunning food, with many reviewers calling it the best meal they've had in years. Compliments frequently go to the complimentary rolls, the quality of beef dishes, and unique set menu items. While the food is exceptional, some diners note that the atmosphere can be lacking, particularly if seated in the back room, and a few reviews mention slightly small portions.
"Brilliant food. The restaurant looks a bit basic, but the food is stunning. And they serve pizza. I could only manage half, it was so loaded with toppings. They give you a box though to take the rest home. Highly recommended."
Sandra Mack
"Food was good, especially for a pub. Higher quality than most around. The complimentary herb rolls were very nice and our mains of chicken and ham pie and duck were lovely. Very good value for money.
The service was friendly. The biggest let down was the atmosphere. We were sat in the back room, which was dark and empty, was very odd setting unless you are in a big group and want the privacy."
Abi Evans
"Came here for the umpteenth year running, for a group Christmas meal, about 40-45 people. Food not quite as good as previously but the staff are always accommodating and pleasant. Most of us were served in a timely manner. I've never been here during normal opening hours or as part of a smaller group."
Lois Holroyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Diners rave about the complimentary warm rolls infused with cheese and parsley, often described as 'heaven'.
The Sunday Roast beef, duck breast with potato rosti, and belly pork from the set menu are highly recommended. The complimentary cheese and parsley rolls are also a must-try.[^data1, ^data3, ^R8]
Yes, booking in advance is essential as the restaurant is small and seating is limited to maintain high standards.
While the food is praised, some guests find the atmosphere lacking, especially in the back room. Requesting seating in other areas is advised for a more vibrant experience.[^R2, ^data_1]
Yes, Thursdays often feature special offers, such as two steaks for £21.[^data_2]
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This is is our favourite for weekday lunch, but not tried a Sunday before ,4 of us and 2 chose pink roast beef,1 went for well done beef and the last one had the steak and ale pie. It came with vegatables roasters............Well..we just could not fault it,every dish was spot on,we followed with various sweets which after the generous starters left us all fully sated, with hungry people, our table was 1.15pm,the restaurant was nearly full and buzzing with hungry people ,the service was spot-on.just to finish ,the bill, was £20.00 per 3 courses or £17.50 for 2 so with £ 2.50 between 2 or 3 courses it would be poor judgement not to opt for 3. outstanding value of fresh local ingredients from a Very talented team.
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Attended a private event and food and service were excellent. The beef with dauphinoise was perfectly cooked and the trio of desserts were delightful. Service was friendly and helpful.
Hotels in Lydney, United Kingdom | Holiday deals from 51 GBP/night
Deangate Motel is located right in the heart of the downtown and is less than 10 minutes on foot from The Ugly Duckling Country Restaurant, which invites you to try British food.
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