Berkshire

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1241" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew.jpeg" alt="Simon Bonwick Dew Drop Inn Berkshire chef" class="wp-image-56115" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew-645x800.jpeg 645w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew-806x1000.jpeg 806w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew-322x400.jpeg 322w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew-768x953.jpeg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Simon-Dew-423x525.jpeg 423w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chef Simon Bonwick of The Dew Drop Inn</figcaption></figure>



Winter is all about crisp cold days, frosty walks, and the kind of expertly prepared triple cooked chips that only a really good gastropub can do (or pan-fried trout if you’re in a virtuous mood). Wash it down with a fabulous local ale or perfectly matched pinot and hey presto, you’re in gastropub heaven.



And so, with the timing perfection of an expertly cooked fillet steak, along comes <a href="https://www.top50gastropubs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Estrella Damm</a> list of the country’s finest gastropubs, with three Berkshire gastros in the top 50, and a further two making the top 100, plus a very special accolade for one of them too.



The top spot was snagged by <a href="https://theunrulypig.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Unruly Pig</a> in Woodbridge Suffolk – the judges gushed about the warm and welcoming setting, an idyllic backdrop to a pub that plates up filling and well-crafted food full of wit and charisma. But right now we&#8217;re starving and only have eyes for Berkshire&#8217;s fab five – two of them are new entries. Grab a fork and dig in.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-beehive-white-waltham-no-22"><a aria-label="The Beehive (opens in a new tab)" href="http://thebeehivewhitewaltham.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Beehive</a>, White Waltham (No. 22)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/beehive-white-waltham.jpeg" alt="The Beehive, White Waltham Berkshire pub" class="wp-image-60614" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/beehive-white-waltham.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/beehive-white-waltham-800x533.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/beehive-white-waltham-400x266.jpeg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/beehive-white-waltham-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



What they say: <a href="http://thebeehivewhitewaltham.com/">The Beehive</a> is a true labour of love, with its elegant three-course dinners. It is a gastropub equally ideal for a long, sun-drenched afternoon lounge in the garden as it is for a cosy, boozy winter night nestled in its traditional bar. 



What we say: Chef Dom Chapman’s pub is a Top 50 Gastropub regular – and for good reason. Nestled in the&nbsp;village of White Waltham, opposite the cricket ground, the pub sources local ingredients, but also aims to represent the UK’s larder. This means ingredients&nbsp;from the country’s uplands and pastures, its meadows, woods, hedgerows, rivers, and seas.&nbsp;



Try this: Braised Oxtail Pie, Cauliflower, Jalapeno Ketchup &amp; Crispy Beef Mash, £28.50.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-loch-amp-the-tyne-old-windsor-no-42"><a aria-label="The Loch &amp; Tyne (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.lochandtyne.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Loch &amp; The Tyne</a>, Old Windsor (No. 42)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="563" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/loch-tyne-food.jpg" alt="The Loch &amp; The Tyne, Old Windsor Berkshire pub" class="wp-image-60625" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/loch-tyne-food.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/loch-tyne-food-800x450.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/loch-tyne-food-400x225.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/loch-tyne-food-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



What they say: Adam Handling is a foodie force who has extended his brilliance into the pub world, opening The Loch &amp; The Tyne not too long ago. The venue is a pub and restaurant with rooms, with a luxury finish and décor that tells a story. Diners are presented with a good selection of menus, including lunch, tasting and a la carte.



What we say: Another jewel in Berkshire&#8217;s foodie crown, Adam Handling expanded outside London to open The Loch &amp; The Tyne in Old Windsor and this is now his third year on the trot featuring on the list. The gastropub has a no waste ethos, with everything sourced locally or, ideally, grown in the raised beds at the back of the building. The food and service is all wow &#8211; plus it won best destination pub at the 2023 Muddy Awards. Just saying.



Try this: Beef featherblade, red wine, smoked bacon, £27, or Mushroom suet pudding, charred hispi, truffle sauce, £24.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-estrella-damm-s-sustainable-pub-of-the-year">ESTRELLA DAMM’S SUSTAINABLE PUB OF THE YEAR</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1875" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2.jpg" alt="Chef Adam Handling The Loch and The Tyne Old Windsor Berkshire" class="wp-image-51658" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-640x800.jpg 640w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-320x400.jpg 320w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-768x960.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/04/Adam-Handling-at-Frog-by-AH-1-Credit-Jason-Alfred-Palmer-2-420x525.jpg 420w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Adam Handling of The Loch and The Tyne</figcaption></figure>



Yep, not only did The Loch and The Tyne swoop the number 42 spot on the Top 50 list, but they were awarded the veryyy special accolade of Estrella Damm&#8217;s Sustainable Pub of the Year for a resounding commitment to their green ethos. 



What they say: The Loch &amp; the Tyne marries sustainability and luxury perfectly. The pub highlights the best of British produce with a focus on hyper-local sourcing &#8211; seasonal vegetables, flowers and herbs are all grown on site and food waste is also low thanks to an ethos of using every part of produce. Sustainability is at the core of everything they do, even down to the team who explain the provenance of produce when presenting dishes and drinks.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-dew-drop-inn-hurley-no-44"><a href="http://www.dewdropinnhurley.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Dew Drop Inn</a>, Hurley (No. 44)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2.jpg" alt="Dew Drop Inn Hurley Berkshire pub" class="wp-image-57006" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2-768x768.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2-525x525.jpg 525w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/10/Dew-2-500x500.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



What they say: This gem of a pub describes itself as “a little pub in the woods” and is situated near some stunning walks and bridle paths. Michelin-star chef Simon Bonwick, alongside his son Charlie, serve up a menu with a French classical accent, showcasing well sourced seasonal ingredients, mostly from France, as well as some of the UK’s best independent suppliers.



What we say: It&#8217;s no surprise The Dew Drop Inn has made its first appearance in the top 50 this year. After Simon took over the reins in January 2022, the bucolic pub has received a tidal wave of acclaim for its exceptional, hearty food and home away from home setting. It&#8217;s charming, unpretentious and just darn brilliant (read our full review <a href="https://berkshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/eat-out/pubs-inns/review-the-dew-drop-inn-hurley-muddy-stilettos/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>).



Try this: Warm Falafel, Spicey Grains and Avocado, £11, and Fillet of Highland Deer with a Rather Nice Rowanberry Sauce, £38.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-belgian-arms-holyport-no-80"><a href="https://thebelgianarms.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Belgian Arms</a>, Holyport (No. 80)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="643" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9.png" alt="The Belgian Arms, Holyport Berkshire pub" class="wp-image-55516" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9.png 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9-800x514.png 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9-400x257.png 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9-768x494.png 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2023/09/belgian-arms-9-816x525.png 816w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



What they say: Situated in a gorgeous village setting, The Belgian Arms is a locals favourite, known for serving fresh and seasonal British food that&#8217;s beautifully cooked, a great selection of wines and a really good pint. 



What we say: A brand-new entry for 2024 and one we love to see. We&#8217;re <a href="https://berkshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/eat-out/pubs-inns/review-the-belgian-arms-holyport-berkshire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">big fans</a> of The Belgian Arms for it&#8217;s well conceived menu that appeals to a wide range of palates and budgets alike. It&#8217;s idyllic, fuss-free, and a pub for all the seasons. The toughest part? Try not to drool.



Try this: Want your taste buds to do a happy dance? Get the Pan Fried Stone Bass, Jerusalem Artichoke Purée, Swiss Chard, Cockles, and Watercress Oil, £28.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hind-s-head-bray-no-92"><a href="https://www.hindsheadbray.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hind&#8217;s Head</a>, Bray (No. 92)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="666" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head.jpeg" alt="Hinds Head Bray Berkshire pub Heston" class="wp-image-59823" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head-800x533.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head-400x266.jpeg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head-768x511.jpeg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/berkshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2024/01/Hinds-Head-788x525.jpeg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



What they say: Heston Blumenthal’s The Hind’s Head at Bray, is a one Michelin-starred gastropub that has, obviously under various ownership, welcomed guests since the 15th century. Menus change seasonally, reflecting traditional British cooking as well as the chefs’ mindset to reinvigorate classic British dishes with Heston’s modern thinking.



What we say: A multi-Muddy Award winner and a well-deserved one. Heston Blumenthal is the creative chief but it&#8217;s Chef Peter Gray banging out the most amazing cookery here. Expect a menu of elevated classics that&#8217;s as comforting as Heston tucking you in at bedtime. The service is top notch, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you can work your way through The Fat Duck&#8217;s cellar. Heaven.



Try this: The signature pea and ham soup, and Scotch egg with mustard mayo never fails to put a smile on your face. 



Fancy nipping over the border? Better make a reservation at one of these beauties…



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BUCKS</h2>



<a href="https://www.thehandandflowers.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Hand &amp; Flowers</a>, Marlow (No. 10) 



<a href="https://www.thecoachmarlow.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Coach</a>, Marlow (No. 21) 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WILTS</h2>



<a href="https://www.thelongsarms.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Longs Arms</a>, Bradford-on-Avon (No. 30)



<a href="https://www.exclusive.co.uk/the-castle-inn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Castle Inn</a>, Castle Combe (No. 64)



<a href="https://www.blackswandevizes.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Black Swan</a>, Devizes (No. 82)



<a href="https://butcombe.com/the-methuen-arms-wiltshire/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Methuen Arms</a>, Corsham, (No. 86)



<a href="https://www.beckfordarms.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Beckford Arms</a>, Fonthill (No. 100)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OXON</h2>



<a href="https://www.thekillingworthcastle.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Killingworth Castle</a>, Wooton (No. 45)



<a href="https://www.countrycreatures.com/double-red-duke/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Double Red Duke</a>, Bampton (No. 47)



<a href="https://thebullcharlbury.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Bull</a>, Charlbury (No. 50)



<a href="https://www.thebelllangford.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Bell Inn</a>, Langford (No. 52)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-surrey">SURREY</h2>



<a href="https://bluebell-dockenfield.com/">The Bluebell</a>, Farnham (No. 90)



<a href="https://rapsa.co.uk/rambling-pig/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Rambling Pig</a>, Ewell (No. 96)



See&nbsp;the full list of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.top50gastropubs.com/list/1-50" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Top 50 Gastropubs here</a>

Top 100 gastropubs 2024 revealed – including five in Berks

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