Colne Valley Regional Park is the first real countryside to the west of London. It’s no surprise then that this area sees a huge number of people visiting to spend a weekend exploring the many lakes, canals and forestry that contribute to the area’s stunning scenery.
The Old Orchard is perfectly situated to capitalise on this natural beauty, sitting atop a hill and offering panoramic views of the surrounding woods and wetlands. For the summer you’ll find a manicured garden and patio area, while indoors the relatively young country house displays much charm. Dark oak dining tables convene with wood-panelled walls, while glowing fireplaces and burgundy rugs spill warmth through the rooms and corridors.
The menus offer traditional pub cuisine cooked by talented chefs using fresh ingredients, and the result is outstanding. Our visit turned up a wholesome braised lamb shoulder with potato Dauphinoise, and we were also struck by the variety of food available. Sandwiches, lunches, light bites, and a dedicated children’s menu sit alongside the options for a three-course meal, meaning there’s plenty to keep everyone happy (all at a very reasonable price). The thriving, well-stocked bar is the centrepiece to the pub, holding a variety of ale, lager, wine and spirits, and giving us more than enough reason to spend a day unwinding in one of the finer parts of the English countryside.