I was very happy to be spending a weekend revolving around good pubs. This one took us across two sister spots: a cosy overnight at The Crown in Benson and dinner at The Chequers Inn in Berrick Salome – just four minutes down the road.

We arrived at The Chequers just as the rugby was wrapping up – peak “village pub energy”. Not rowdy, not chaotic. Just merry. Buzzy. That warm hum that’s lovely to stumble into on a cold rainy eve.

Inside? Gorgeous. Proper French bistro vibes – intimate lighting, layered textures, and the kind of thoughtful decor that makes you want to photograph every corner (which I did, obvs). They’ve kept some of the chairs from previous owners, which gives it real character. It’s stylish without being try-hard. Bitten-approved interiors for sure.

The menu is concise (always a good sign). Enough choice to feel considered, not so much that you need a lie down before ordering. We were driving so kept it to a pint each – but the wine list was calling. We’ll be back for that. The team were warm and knowledgeable, and we had a lovely chat with John, who owns both pubs. It’s always nice when the hospitality feels genuinely hands-on.

Smoked mackerel with dill dressing

Beautifully balanced. The mackerel had that soft, cured texture with a gentle smokiness, lifted by a fresh hit of dill. Slightly pickled notes, just the right level of salt. Clean, bright, and confident.

Beef brisket crumpet

This was comfort food done properly. Pillowy soft inside, crisped on the outside, topped with tender, hearty brisket that managed to be rich without feeling heavy. Hug-on-a-plate energy.

Lamb rump with harissa courgettes and pea purée

A stunner. Vibrant, colourful, and cooked a perfect blush pink. The harissa brought a gentle warmth, and the pea purée kept everything feeling fresh and spring-like.

Sea bass with capers, parsley baby prawns, lemon butter sauce and chilli cabbage

Delicate, soft, beautifully cooked fish. The capers gave a punchy lift against the buttery lemon sauce. Thr overall dish was elegant and flavourful.

Side of buttery mash

If you’re ordering mash, it should be unapologetically buttery. This delivered. Silky, rich, and exactly what we wanted it to be.

Apple and toffee crumble

Generous portion, served in a charming terracotta dish with proper custard (always a win). The apples kept their skins on, which added texture – though slightly unexpected – and it was a touch more watery than ideal. Still comforting, just not knockout.

Sticky toffee pudding with banana sauce

Strong rum notes (in a good way), sponge soft and bouncy. The sauce was delicious but… not enough of it. If I’m ordering sticky toffee pudding, I want full sponge submersion. Also didn’t catch much banana, which felt like a missed opportunity.

We checked into The Crown for the night – dog in tow (both pubs are brilliantly dog-friendly, complete with bar biscuits and staff who actually want to fuss them).

Our room was cosy with a roll-top bath in the room – always a treat. Big bed, chilled atmosphere, friendly staff. Breakfast the next morning was lovely and relaxed. You can help yourself to continental (granola, cereals, lovely bread and jams) or order cooked options. Charlie went for avocado and eggs on toast – beautifully cooked and seasoned. I leaned continental.

It did mention cheeses and hams which weren’t out when we arrived, but we’d gone down later after walking the dog, so we may have simply missed them. The breakfast room itself felt quaint and calm – exactly how you want to start a Sunday.

Overall, The Chequers is that rare thing: a proper village pub that feels stylish without losing its heart. The food is thoughtful, well-executed and confidently plated – the starters and mains genuinely up there with some of the best we’ve had recently. Add in The Crown for a cosy overnight and you’ve got a ready-made Oxfordshire escape. We’ll be back in summer to fully appreciate those garden spaces!

The Chequers
Berrick Salome, Wallingford OX10 6JN

The Crown Inn
52 High St, Benson, Wallingford OX10 6RP

Bitten were invited as guests, all views are our own