The Feathered Nest is located in the most idyllic village, Nether Westcote. We've been once before in winter, but it's in summer when it really comes into its own. With completely uninterrupted views across the Evenlode Valley and a brilliant outdoor setup, with the current heat, it'd be very easy to mistake yourself for being in France. By the end of the night, there … [Read more...]
Market Tavern, Bampton
The Market Tavern has quietly built a reputation for excellent food and warm hospitality, recently earning an AA Rosette for culinary excellence. Leading the pub is general manager Will Morris, formerly of the Fleur de Lys and before that The White Hart at Fyfield. Describing itself as an independent, modern pub with rooms. The Market Tavern promises community spirit, great … [Read more...]
The Harcourt Arms, Stanton Harcourt
You know you’ve become a regular when the manager greets you with “good to see you again”. It’s hard to stay away from The Harcourt Arms and it’s now overtaken one of our long-time favourites. On this occasion, we were back for their roast, which is incredible value at three courses for £30. To start, we ordered the buttermilk fried chicken aioli, mainly because I’d … [Read more...]
The Red Lion, Blewbury
There is something rather special happening in Blewbury. The Red Lion feels less like a pub and more like a living room for the village. On a midweek evening it is filled with conversation, familiar faces and a roaring fire, the kind of place that reminds you why pubs still matter. The couple took over the pub five years ago after a career in property development, with … [Read more...]
The White Horse, Kings Sutton, Banbury
My first foray to Banbury for a review took me to the lovely village of Kings Sutton and The White Horse. As I stepped out of the car, I was immediately struck by the sound of bells ringing from the 14th century church and the pitch-dark sky scattered with twinkling stars. Walking through to the back of the restaurant, I found a smart, upmarket dining space. As I had my dog … [Read more...]