When Michelin-starred chef Tom Shepherd launched a version of his winning Great British Menu pie at Marston’s we thought we’d give it the once over.

Just to be clear we haven’t been paid to say nice things, we just love a pie.

Eighteen pubs across the West Midlands will be serving the pie – which they’ve confidently named the Best Ever Pub Pie – until mid-July. It wasn’t exactly pie weather when we visited and in truth, we’d rather have nibbled a salad, however we took one for the team.

First thing to note is the pie wasn’t on the main menu card – there were other pies, but not Tom’s, so ask at the bar. His face adorned flyers on every table, so it wasn’t difficult. At £20 it’s a bit pricier than Marston’s usual offering, but it’s Tom Shepherd, right?

BEST PIE?

Crucially the beef fat shortcrust pastry was nice and crisp; the shredded beef cheek and shin inside was rich and tender while caramelised onions added a bit of sweetness. There was a layer of potato which we didn’t think added much, but overall, the intense flavour was tremendous, and the accompanying pot of silky red wine sauce was delicious. The mashed potato on the side felt unnecessary and the vegetables could have done with a slick of butter to liven them up, but the pie itself was worth the trip although perhaps not in 24-degree heat.

It’s also worth noting there’s more to the Swan than Tom’s pie. It may have pulled in some new punters like us, but we wager they’ll/we’ll be back. The staff were superb, the place was lively, the bar well stocked and the beer garden was an absolute delight. A hop skip and a jump from Birmingham, it’s a gem.