The Best Country Pubs: Matchmaker Picks

by | Jul 4, 2024 | News

A Guide to the UK’s Best Country Pub Lunches

There’s nothing quite like a quintessential British country pub. Imagine a warm fireplace crackling in the background, friendly locals swapping stories at the bar, and a menu boasting hearty, locally sourced options. Add in a summer’s day, and you’ve got the recipe for a delightful afternoon escape.

The team at Country Partners have compiled a list of our favourite country pubs in the UK:

The Star Inn at Studley, North Yorkshire: This Michelin-starred venue elevates the pub lunch experience. Their ever-changing menu showcases seasonal ingredients with creativity.  Think fresh Yorkshire produce reimagined into dishes like salt marsh lamb with wild garlic or roast cod with mussels and saffron.

The White Horse, Chilston, South Oxfordshire: This thatched-roof beauty boasts a seasonally focused menu that changes daily. Expect to find dishes like wood-roasted pigeon with wild mushrooms or chargrilled asparagus with poached egg and hollandaise sauce. Pair your lunch with a pint of their locally brewed ale for a truly authentic experience.

The Carpenters Arms, Hinton Waldrist, Oxfordshire: Step back in time at this charming 17th-century pub. Their lunch menu features all the classics done exceptionally well: succulent bangers and mash, a perfectly executed ploughman’s lunch with local cheeses and chutneys, and generous portions of fish and chips.

The Talbot Inn, Mells, Somerset: This historic pub, dating back to the 14th century, offers a classic pub lunch experience. Expect to find hearty stews, pies bursting with flavour, and locally sourced sausages. Don’t miss their legendary sticky toffee pudding for a sweet ending to your meal.

The Fox at Little Badminton, South Gloucestershire: This pub is a haven for both humans and their furry companions. Their extensive lunch menu caters to all tastes, with options ranging from light salads to hearty burgers. They even have a dedicated dog menu with tasty treats for your four-legged friend. Enjoy your meal in the pub’s beautiful garden, where dogs are welcome to roam freely.