Review: Sunshine, Flavour & Spring Vibes at The White Horse, Harpenden
The White Horse, Harpenden
The White Horse has long been a favourite of ours, and it never fails to deliver—whatever the season. In the warmer months, the sunny terrace is perfect for spring and summer evenings, while in autumn and winter, the cosy atmosphere and open fire create the ideal setting for a comforting meal. This week, we had the pleasure of being invited to experience their spring menu—and with the weather firmly on our side, the sun-drenched terrace was an absolute must.
One of the things we appreciate most about The White Horse is its relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're dropping in for a casual afternoon catch-up with friends or looking to enjoy a smart dining experience, the setting strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. No matter the occasion, the team creates a space that feels welcoming, easy-going, and just right - all you could ask for of a traditional pub.
STARTERS
We began with two beautifully prepared starters. The garlic and paprika king prawns, served with roast tomatoes on toasted sourdough, were rich and aromatic with a lovely smoky depth. Equally impressive was the roast aubergine with coconut yoghurt, pomegranate, and sesame—a vibrant dish that felt fresh and perfect for the season.
MAINS
Moving on to mains, we were very impressed. The 10oz Ribeye was cooked just as we wanted it—medium rare—accompanied by both peppercorn and béarnaise sauces and served with a side of crisp chips. We indulged and also ordered the truffle mac and cheese, and golden onion rings which were delicious. The dish was rich, comforting, and expertly prepared—exactly what you'd hope for from a well-executed pub classic.
And who doesn’t love a steak burger on a sunny afternoon? The Aubrey’s Steak Burger hit all the right notes—served in a soft, buttery brioche bun with melting American cheese, pickles, and a side of fries. It was simple, classic, and done exactly right.
DESSERT
Ofcourse, no meal is complete without dessert—and The White Horse didn’t disappoint. We started with a light and refreshing trio of lemon and raspberry sorbets paired with Madagascan vanilla ice cream, the perfect palate cleanser. For something more indulgent, the Dark Chocolate Fondant was a standout: rich and gooey, served with a caramelised white chocolate sauce and a scoop of caramel cookie dough ice cream. It was warm, decadent, and utterly moreish—a perfect way to end the meal.
Cocktails & Mocktails
To complement our meal, we sampled a few of The White Horse’s cocktails and mocktails. The Paloma and Whisky Apple Smash were both expertly crafted, offering bold, balanced flavours with a touch of creativity. For a non-alcoholic option, the strawberry and lemonade 0% cocktail was vibrant, and just as satisfying. Each drink was refreshingly layered and thoughtfully presented—a perfect pairing for the spring menu.
Pub Club offer- 2 for £25
An extra highlight worth noting is The White Horse’s Pub Club offer. From Monday to Wednesday, diners can enjoy two gastropub classics for just £25. Options include hearty favourites like the 14-hour Braised Beef & Ale Pie, Watermelon, Edamame & Rice Noodle Salad, Aubrey Allen’s Steak Burger, and sustainably sourced Fish & Chips. It’s a great-value deal that makes midweek dining a little more exciting.
other News
The White Horse is also proudly marking the launch of its spring menu with a meaningful collaboration with chef and author Gemma Ogston, known for her vibrant, plant-based dishes. As part of the partnership, Gemma’s famous Rainbow Lasagne is being served at the pub until mid-June. Even better, for every dish sold, 25p will be donated to FareShare UK, a charity committed to tackling hunger and food waste. It’s a thoughtful initiative that adds purpose to your plate.
summary
From delicious gastropub staples to creative plant-based specials, The White Horse delivers more than just a good meal—it offers a dining experience rooted in quality, care, and community values. Whether you're stopping by for a casual burger, a special meal out, or simply a mocktail in the sunshine, this Harpenden gem deserves a spot on your must-visit list.