Located in the south of the Cotswolds, between ancient Malmesbury and royal Tetbury, this charming retreat is happily situated in the picturesque village of Crudwell, on the A429 toward Cirencester.
Having been warmly greeted, we sank into comfy chairs by the well-stocked bar and enjoyed pre-dinner drinks. Ambient music along with delicious aromas wafted invitingly from the dining area. With the choice of three attractive dining rooms, the restaurant manages to maintain an intimate and homely feel. This AA-rosette-awarded restaurant has head chef Nick Batstone to thank for its delectable English cuisine. He sources much produce locally, and has created a contemporary menu that changes with the seasons and often features duck from Bibury and venison from Lechlade. I ordered smoked mackerel mousse with a zesty orange and rocket salad to start. Roasted vegetables with garlic, fresh herbs and punchy sun-blushed tomatoes added piquancy to my delicately cooked, free-range roast breast of chicken; this really is mouthwatering cuisine produced by an expert hand. Vegetarians will enjoy delights such as butterbean and lentil hotpot with sautéed new potatoes, and gluten-free options are also available. Expect to pay a reasonable £26 for three courses - excellent value for such quality. To finish, I chose white chocolate and Baileys cheesecake, artfully decorated with a leafed kumquat. I could have eaten it twice - maybe next time I will.
