The Boathouse At Boulters Lock

We booked well in advance for a party of 8 for Golden wedding anniversary. We ordered the lobster but informed the day before that they could not provide. I like my seafood and fish so ordered the garlic prawns for 3 of us. When arrived they were small, shell on no problem). When peeled they were even smaller and had not been de-veined and tasted sour. All three dishes went back. Moved onto next dish which was Meagre Fish which is supposed to be a large white filet similar to sea bass. I got served two small parcels about 1.5 square with a load of boiled skin on potatoes cut in half with a bit of rocket. £28) It was sent away and replaced by another piece this time about 3.5 long. It was cold, slimy, not fully cooked and very very salty. As I had not eaten most of the day I needed something. I settled for the chicken but when served it was over done, dry and tasteless. We gave in and went home. The manager did apologize saying he had a new trainee chef and it was his first day. He reduced our bill to just a few starters and deserts for the children and any drinks about 1/3 of the bill left to pay. Staff, waitresses and manager were great but I just think relying on a new trainee was wrong and if they need to impress they need to recruit at least one top chef and make good size portions with tasty flavours. potatoes and rocket certainly does not cut it for me. At those prices I expect a double filet of maybe sea bass size in a sauce as sea bass is a very plain bland fish, full pan fried trout my favourite. Salmon is another popular dish. I buy 4 trout filets, 4 mackerel and 8 large prawns for £9 each week. Paying £28 to have 1 filet cooked and served is expensive. £12 for 4 small prawns.

It was a lovely light breakfast with a great view and amazing staff

It would appear that The Boathouse can be a very popular and busy place on a summer Saturday afternoon. The food is all-round excellent and it is the professionalism and efficiency of staff that makes it work so well.

Food choice good, service prompt, lovely setting overlooking Thames. Decent value for money.

Great food and even better service!!! High end roast and so not cheap but well worth it!