Yorkies ahoy! Top 50+ Sunday roasts across the Muddy counties
Not up for hours of potato basting? Ditch the pans and let these brilliant restaurants and gastropubs from across the Muddy counties, do what they do best.
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BEDFORDSHIRE HERTFORDSHIRE BERKSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE LONDON KENT CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SURREY SUSSEX CHESHIRE YORKSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE WILTSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE WEST MIDLANDS ISLE OF WIGHT
BERKSHIRE
The Crown at Bray, Bray
The Crown at Bray is a super-relaxed, down-to-earth gastropub that dons two prestigious AA Rosettes and is headed by Chef Scott Smith. Inside, you’ll be playing cosy pub bingo: low beams (ouch! Mind your head), roaring fire, exposed brick, dark oak furniture and a garden to boot the kids into. Hospitality is warm, and the Sunday roast is lovely. Choose from sirloin of beef or pork loin, The beef has been described as ‘the best ever’, but if you’re not a fan of this British tradition, they offer excellent pub classics too. The Crown Prawn Cocktail is ah-may-zing.
The George & Dragon, Swallowfield
The George & Dragon in leafy Swallowfield is one of those traditional country pubs that ticks all the boxes: roaring fires, a lovely garden with lush country views, and good hearty food. Unleash the children, grab a large glass of red, and relaaaax. Plenty of choice here with fully-loaded plates of local beef, lamb, chicken, pork and mushroom wellington. There are some lovely circular woodland walks nearby so make the most of them. Portion sizes are generous. Psst, you can grab a roast at their sister site Siren Bar in Reading town centre too. Recommended with a pint of the good stuff. Obvs.
Milaanj at The Beehive, White Waltham
Culinary gem Milaanj at The Beehive only opened at the tail end of June, offering a funfair fusion of global and British gastropub classics, masterfully elevated with rich Indian flavours. While pretty plates are what they do best, Sundays are simple. Just a darn good roast with all the trimmings. Grab a 35 day dry aged sirloin, chicken or cauliflower roast in the plush pistachio hued dining room. Anyone who doesn’t love a Sunday meat feast can enjoy the incredible chef’s specials instead. The 24 Hours Marinated Honey Spiced Lamb Rump is life-changing.
The White Oak, Cookham
Sunday lunch at The White Oak is an event in itself. This superb gastropub balances the art of being a welcoming local and foodie destination. So if you like your Sunday lunch with a side order of WOW, then pull up a chair. The food is stunning, (check out our review for proof) offering a traditional roast will all the trimmings. I’m talking individual pots of cauliflower cheese, crispy roast potatoes, seasoned veg, pigs in blankets, a huge Yorkshire pudding, and fat slices of either sirloin beef, pork leg, chicken or nut roast. Come to mama. Kids are well catered for too, plus there are some lovely walks to avoid a food coma.
BEDFORDSHIRE
The Sun Inn, Felmersham
An historic 17th century rural pub and farm-to-fork restaurant, The Sun Inn in Felmersham is a proper village pub – think views of the local church, a sprawling network of lovely countryside walks and an inviting fire to cosy up to in the winter months. And Sunday lunch here sounds like a real treat. With two courses for £31 or three for £38, options include the likes of smoked sea trout or mushroom arancini to start, followed by pork, beef fillet or roast chicken (as well as a veggie main) with all the trimmings, and (if you have room), apple crumble or damson sponge pudding with custard.
KENT
Bridge Arms, Canterbury
Looking for a family-friendly, cosy country pub with a delicious Michelin star menu to boot? The Bridge Arms should be on your radar, nestled in the beautiful village of Bridge, their menu is very much centered around a seasonal, local offering. The Sunday Menu is varied but roasts are along the lines of… Confit Spring Chicken, Short Rib of Hereford Beef, Cote du Boeuf, Whole South Coast Turbot (just for example) or choose something fro the Josper Grill. For chilly days hunker down in The Grade II listed beamed building with roaring fires or enjoy warmer summer days in the outside bar, garden with a good playground too.
The Bottle House, Penshurst
Think gorgeous village location, handsome exterior with beams galore, a copper-topped bar inside and a menu dedicated to seasonality and local produce. As well as the à la carte menu, on Sundays they also cook three different kinds of roast with all the traditional trimmings. The Bottle House is a stand-out dining destination and, with lots of great walks right on the doorstep, one to put on your must-visit list.
The Kentish Hare, Bidborough, nr Tunbridge Wells
Nestled in Bidborough, owned and run by brothers Chris and James Tanner, The Kentish Hare remains in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastro Pubs and every time we’ve visited this eatery it always makes the gourmet grade. It’s welcoming and stylishly designed with an open kitchen to watch the magic in action. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents, even the dog – everyone will enjoy the food and feel at home. Sundays are their most popular days so be advised to book 3-4 weeks in advance to avoid disappointment, you’ve been warned.
CORNWALL
The Tartan Fox, Summercourt, nr Newquay
In the countryside between Truro and Newquay, The Tartan Fox is the newest cub in the Adam Handling restaurant group litter, and is handily placed for access from all parts of Cornwall. Once the old Muddy Award winning Foxes Revenge, the 400-year-old Grade II listed pub has been transformed, with updated interiors featuring earthy tones and natural materials including stone and wood and the food continuing Adam’s visionary approach to zero-waste, modern British food, underpinned by the philosophy that is consistent throughout each of his restaurants; ‘Sustainable, local luxury’. The Sunday Roasts are excellent, puddings divine and the wine list as you’d expect, perfectly judged. The menu varies from week to week, season to season, with beef Wellington on the menu the day we visited, this month hot smoked wagyu sirloin and roast pork. Local chef Andi Tuck has now joined the team, adding his signature vegetarian ember roasted dishes to the lunch menu. Roasts from £22, children’s portions available.
Duchy of Cornwall Nursery, nr Lostwithiel
The Duchy of Cornwall Nursery is now offering a Sunday roast in addition to their normal menus in The Orangery and the Café. Choose from two roast meats, or a vegetarian dish and for dessert, choose one of three puddings or cheese of the day. Afterwards, take a walk round the nursery and get inspired for your own garden, or take the trail that traces through the woodlands to Restormel Castle.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan, nr St Austell
Sunday roasts are back at Heligan, served from 12 – 3pm in the Heligan Kitchen. Enjoy a homemade roast from the finest Heligan reared meat and local produce, and then spend the afternoon exploring the 200 acre estate. Explore the Victorian Productive Gardens and Pleasure Grounds, wind your way along paths laid out over two centuries ago and catch the last of the dahlias and orchard fruits.
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
The Oarsman, Marlow
A star on the Marlow gastro-scene, The Oarsman wears many hats and pulls them off brilliantly. Inside it oozes French bistro vibes, but don’t be fooled by the sleek bar top, the moules frites and 300+ selection of wines – they still do a proper British Sunday roast to knock your spuds off. Choose from entrecôte (£27), pork loin (£26) and leg of lamb (£27), all served with all the trimmings so no one goes without a towering Yorkshire pud. The Oarsman is laden with awards for its food and its wine selection, it was the 2023 Bucks Pub of the Year and it’s currently up for an award for its Sunday Roast – why not swing by and see what all the fuss is about?
The Royal Oak, Bovingdon Green
The Royal Oak outside Marlow has always been a hit with locals looking to combine a hearty Sunday roast with a walk around the beechwoods. Now new owners Alix and David, who’ve been in the hot seat since March ’23, are taking that rep and running with it. Sunday lunch is their most popular sitting of the week by far, with generous roasts served up with roast potatoes, plenty of veg, Yorkshire puddings (Alix is from Yorkshire) and bottomless gravy. The main restaurant/bar is a snug spot for chilly days, or outside there’s a garden patio and the Royal Teepee, which seats 80 and can be booked for private parties.
The Five Arrows, Waddesdon
This boutique hotel, built in 1887 by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, sits at the bottom of the driveway to the family’s faux French chateau, Waddesdon Manor. The 2AA Rosette restaurant had a stylish overhaul a few years back and it’s a top-notch place for Sunday lunch, serving up produce from the Waddesdon estate (the lamb, cumin and redcurrant pie sounds divine) and wine from the family’s amply stocked cellar. Two courses for £32.50 or three for £40. While you’re here, it’s also worth checking out the Rothschild Foundation’s sister pub in the village, The Bow, open for business in early October ’24.
LONDON
Fox & Pheasant, Fulham
Famous for being owned by singer James Blunt, this cosy country meets city chic inn should really be making headlines for its food rather than its owner, because it’s serving up some of the best pub grub the city, particularly its Sunday roast. Available all day (music to the ears of parents and the hungover, or both), the mouth-watering menu includes classics such as roast beef sirloin with horseradish sauce and roast pork belly and apple sauce, served with Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, parsnip purée, crushed carrots and swede, green beans and gravy. Starving? Order the whole spatchcock chicken with bread sauce and stuffing to share.
Boundary, Shoreditch
We love many things about Boundary, including its roof terrace for drinks in the summer, luxurious hotel rooms and delicious breakfasts, but perhaps the absolute highlight are its satisfyingly large and tasty Sunday roasts served in the downstairs brasserie. Can’t make up your mind between the classics (think roast beef, chicken, pork belly or veggie)? Then order the mega Mixed Roast and get a selection of each, with sides of duck-fat roasted potatoes, cauliflower cheese and Yorkshire puddings. If you can manage it, starters such as Maldon rock oysters and charcuterie board are worth ordering too.
The Laundry, Brixton
This award-winning restaurant lays claim to the best Sunday roast in South London and Muddy has to concur, it’s great fodder. Start with the burrata, fig and parma ham with pomegranate, then loosen your belt and move on to the main event: 28-day aged Hereford sirloin with creamed horseradish and Yorkshire pudding, rolled roast pork belly with apple sauce, yorkies and crackling or roast squash and sage tart, miso caramel chestnuts and chilli samba, all served with squash, roast potatoes, glazed carrots, minted peas and gravy. Still hungry? Warm chocolate chip cookies with vanilla ice cream should do the trick. Just be sure to book well in advance.
OXFORDSHIRE
The Boxing Hare, Swergrove
The Boxing Hare is a gourmet pub based five miles from Chipping Norton in scenic Cotswolds countryside, and its foodie credentials cannot be contested. Run by former London restaurateur Antony Griffith Harris with partner Stacey Charlotte, it combines stylishly rustic interiors, great service, and the most incredible food. Head chef Nick Anderson is a former 3 AA Rosette and twice Michelin star winner – so his Sunday roasts are worth a considerable trip. Take a peek at the extremely enticing menu here – no wonder The Boxing Hare has drawn such a starry celeb clientele. We hear even the Beckhams have hopped along.
The White Hart, Fyfield
Husband and wife team Mark and Kay Chandler go the extra mile to give their guests a fabulous foodie experience, all sourced from local suppliers and their own kitchen gardens. No surprise, then, that this lovingly restored c15th pub in pretty Fyfield won Best Destination Pub in the Muddy Awards this year. The menu changes weekly depending on what’s in season at the time, but expect the likes of goats cheese mousse with figs for starters, and sirloin of dry-aged beef with Yorkshire pudding, garden vegetables, cauliflower cheese, roast potatoes and red wine jus for the main event. Two courses for £40 or three for £45.
DEVON
Millbrook Inn, South Pool, nr Kingsbridge
Since the new team reignited this riverside inn in 2021, it’s been going from strength to strength, and multiple friends are texting telling me to go! Head chef Iain Dawson is also a butcher, making creative use of the cuts from the family farm reared organic and heritage breed meats to create a quality Sunday roast with all the trimmings. At £24pp for one course it tips the scales somewhat, but never mind the quality – look at the size of it. A recent review in the Sunday Times piped: “I’d willingly row Mary Poppins and the whole Banks family in a fleet of Silver Crosses to enjoy that dinner again.” Message received.
The Sea Trout Inn, Staverton
Served up at hidden gem pub in a village near Totnes (with a medieval bridge and a heritage stop on the South Devon Railway), this roast is best combined with a Sunday stomp though the woods and riverside from the Dartington Estate. Your reward is a tasty choice of Devon beef or pork belly, free range turkey crown or mushroom and cranberry nut roast. The portions are really generous, the veg super-fresh and the prices purse-friendly.
ESSEX
Pig & Whistle Restaurant, Chelmsford
Want a peaceful meal? The Pig & Whistle Restaurant‘s the one for you. For adults who love delicious food and a decent wine list (20+ choices), it’s not for babies in buggies or toddlers that tantrum. If you want to bring kids over 10 you can – just don’t expect a children’s menu on offer. Come Sundays, they’ve a two-course £28 option or three for £36, with choices including salt and pink pepper prawns with lime mayo, Great Garnett’s pork loin with all the trimmings, and apple and rhubarb crumble. Lush.
Old Essex Barn, Kelvedon
Old Essex Barn has that perfect blend of timeless charm and modern elegance. Dating back to 1464, it boasts exposed beams and terracotta floors, all surrounded by acres of Essex countryside. Head there on Sunday from 12-6pm for a roast to remember – think striploin of beef, pork belly or roast chicken. However, they’re sure to cater for every taste, with fish and veggie options available. And then there’s their too-tempting desserts – we’ll take the sticky toffee pud, please.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Kings Head Hotel, Cirencester
Located in the heart of beautiful Cirencester, the Kings Head MBB brasserie is a popular place for a Sunday lunch with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has bar have been designed for diners to feel part of the experience – watch the chefs cook up your lunch in the open plan kitchen or cocktails being shaken at the bar. Tuck into roast chicken, beef, pork or the adventurous sounding Miso Marinated Sweet Potato (v), served with all the trimmings. Visit on the first Sunday of the month and renowned magician Alex Robertson will entertain you for free whilst you feast.
Burleigh Court, Stroud
Breaking news for Sunday lunch lovers – The Burleigh Restaurant at Burleigh Court has just been nominated for The Good Food Guide’s Best Sunday Roast 2024! The place to go for a top notch and locally sourced Sunday lunch, vegetables come from the kitchen garden and all the meats are high welfare. Feast on your chosen dish – including beef, chicken, hake and a vegetarian option – with stunning views over the Cotswold hills.
HERTFORDSHIRE
The Silver Cup, Harpenden
The Silver Cup in Harpenden was featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide no less and promises a rather special Sunday lunch which is, I quote, ‘an event’. The kitchen uses ethically sourced and locally foraged ingredients and the chefs make everything from scratch, from bread and stock to ice cream. Choose from roast Hereford beef sirloin, Sutton Hoo chicken, or John Dory, all served with duck fat roast potatoes and buttered market greens. The starters sound too good to skip, including half shell scallops and lamb merguez scotch egg, while desserts feature a chocolate and pear delice an bakewell tart with strawberry sorbet. £39 for two courses and £48 for three.
WORCESTERSHIRE
The Cottage in the Wood, Malvern
Restaurant 1919 at this fairytale hotel waltzed off with the Taste of Worcestershire Award this year and made it into the Michelin Guide this year too. Head Chef Rob Mason uses the local larder of Worcestershire to create Sunday roasts that are a cut above anywhere else. Choose from five meat and vegan options from Slow Braised Blade of Hereford Beef to Celeriac Wellington, priced at £34 for three mouth-watering courses. And with vistas over the lush, rolling Malvern Hills, it could be the roast with the best views in the UK, we’re calling it.
HAMPSHIRE
The Cart & Horses, Kings Worthy, Winchester
Wagons roll! A 250-year-old country pub just outside of Winchester, The Cart and Horses makes a cosy spot for superb Sunday roasts. Dive into Rump of beef with horseradish cream, pork belly, chicken or vegan haggis with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, cauli cheese, rainbow roots and seasonal greens, all served family-style. Kids roasts are a bargain at £8 and you can even plump for a few pigs in blankets as a side. Well, why wait until Christmas?
The Mutton at Hazeley Heath, Hook
This award-winning gastro on the fringe of Hazeley Heath Nature reserve in North Hampshire was crowned ‘Pub of the Year’ in the National Pub & Bar Awards 2024 and Best Destination Pub in the Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Muddy Awards. Hungry diners come from far and wide for well-plated Sunday roasts such as beef rump and leg of lamb with seasonal veggies, crunchy Yorkshire puds and roasties. Pair with a cask ales, craft beers or a glass or two from the carefully curated international wine list featuring tasty organic and biodynamic numbers.
The Thomas Lord, West Meon
Named after the man who founded Lord’s cricket ground, this picture-perfect village pub in the quintessentially Hampshire Meon Valley, has a longstanding reputation for great grub. Book ahead for Sunday lunch and tuck into beef, chicken, pork or a veggie alternative with all the trimmings. Be sure to pack some sturdy boots: if you’re coming from out of town, there are beautiful walks to strike out on and cosy rooms to hole up in afterwards.
RUTLAND
The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton, Rutland
It’s no secret that we love this National Muddy Award winning gastropub. Not only does it have gorgeous views over Rutland Water, the luxe decor is très stylish. Their Sunday lunch will keep you ensconced for hours, with five options to choose from including beef, chicken, pork, fish and veggie and vegan option. They also have a Mini Finch’s Menu, so that’s everyone sorted!
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
The Plough, Everdon, Northamptonshire
A cosy country pub at the heart of the pretty village of Everdon in south Northants, The Plough is headed up by David and Sarah Webster, who have clocked up some impressive experience between them, including stints at Le Manoir, so you’re in expert hands here. The Sunday roasts are on another level – think slow roast wild boar, dry aged sirloin of beef and herb-crusted lamb rump, and provenance is everything, with all of the meat being sourced locally, some from within sight of the pub.
Eyas Restaurant, The Falcon, Castle Ashby, Northamptonshire
Head Chef Russell Bateman, who was Head Chef under Gordon Ramsey for several years at Pétrus in Knightsbridge, channels his passion for local and seasonal ingredients into every dish. It’s this philosophy, revolving around the importance of landscape and our connection to the food we eat, combined with The Falcon’s emphasis on nutritional health and wellness, that inspires the delightful menus at Eyas, so expect free range pork belly and tenderloin, roast sirloin of dry aged beef, or roast aubergine and polenta.
SUSSEX
The Welldiggers Arms, Petworth
This charming country pub, with views of the South Downs, has had plenty of practice giving patrons exactly what they want, it’s been open for 300 years! Age aside, it’s famous locally in West Sussex for serving up a fab roast, so word to the wise: book in advance. Your choice for toasts are Rump of Hereford and Angus beef, Cameron Naughton pork belly ‘porchetta’ and Castlemead Farm chicken which come with all the trimmings just be sure to order a side of cauliflower cheese. If you have room for more (like Muddy even needs to ask!) Then the Biscoff filled doughnuts are a dream for dessert and you can share, if you’re that way inclined. Be sure to order the pork scratchings before you start things off they are out of this world.
The Cat Inn, West Hoathly
Oozing character and with great food and drink, this 16th century friendly village gastropub even has a 2021 Michelin Bib Gourmand award. Head chef Suphi Ergin is dedicated to sourcing food locally particularly those based in Sussex from Trenchmore Beef (those lucky cows), to fresh fish from day boats in New Haven as well as Bluebell Vineyard bubbles and meat from Robert Edwards, Reigate. Sunday lunch sticks with the traditional roast options but you can also order the usual pub fare if there’s someone who doesn’t fancy a roast (who are these people). There’s a relaxed dining area and a more formal looking dining room with wood flooring and church pew seating (perfect for little ones). It’s also near the Ashdown Forest so you’ve plenty of options to work up and appetite and to stop by Winnie the Pooh’s house.
WARWICKSHIRE
The Bower House, Shipston-on-Stour
Tom Parker Bowles said this beautiful restaurant with rooms is one of the top 50 places in the UK for a Sunday roast, and who are we to argue? Pre-order the beef wellington, or there’s pork and veggie options, and fish if you’re fancying the standard menu. Make sure you try one of the cocktails too, they’re pretty special.
The Boat, Catherine-de-Barnes
This beautiful, contemporary pub in a canal side setting is pretty much the perfect place to stop for everything from brunch through to dinner, but we especially love a lazy lunch on a Sunday. There’s the usual suspects of beef, pork or chicken, and for veggies a haggis wellington. Go along with the whole family and make sure you take the dog too.
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
Hart’s Kitchen, Nottingham
Perched on the old ramparts of Nottingham Castle this intimate fine dining restaurant with 2 AA rosettes has a stellar rep for Sunday roasts. The kitchen prides itself on using local ingredients and the vibe is special but intimate and informal. The Sunday set menu is £32 for 2 courses or £38 for 3 courses.
NORFOLK
The Feathers, Holt
A soft landing after hitting the boutiques in Holt or the nearby coast, The Feathers is all plush seating, cosy corners, locally crafted tipples and seasonal bites including a cracking Sunday roast. Choose from 28 day dry aged Hereford beef or roast Suffolk chicken with all the trimmings, or home made mushroom wellington for the vegetarians, just make sure you save room for dessert, the sticky toffee pudding is the stuff of dreams.
The Brisley Bell, Brisley
If the sun’s shining you can find us ordering a vino in its idyllic beer garden, but when it’s cold we’re making a dash for The Brisley Bell’s cosy corners and open fires and staying there until last orders. With a clutch of gongs to its name, it’s no surprise the kitchen crew is whipping up such stand-out roasts. Grab a table in the jaw-droppingly beautiful library room to tuck into beef sirloin, pork loin or bacon-wrapped chicken. There’s always some tempting fish dishes on the menu for anyone who doesn’t love a Sunday meat feast or a mean scampi and chips for pub grub traditionalists, or fussy kids!
The Kings Head Inn, Brooke
A leisurely Sunday lunch at The Kings Head Inn is a three-course affair, with creative nibbles to kick things off (paprika pork puffs with your aperitif?). The Sunday Menu has a choice of three roasts including a veggie option, but you’ll also be in gourmet heaven if you’re craving a burger or fish and chips. With its double AA Rosettes and ingredients harvested twice a day from their nearby farm, this pub is a dead cert for a winner Sunday dinner.
The George and Dragon, Cley-next-the-Sea
Coastal explorers and foodies make your way to The George and Dragon, a handsome hotel come pub overlooking Cley salt marshes. Brimming with local charm, it’s an iconic North Norfolk spot for a post-walk roast. After a pint of the good stuff in the elegant light-filled bar area with its striking stained glass window featuring the legend it’s named after, it’s on to the rustic restaurant for lunch. Meat eaters can choose from roast sirloin of beef, roast pork loin (or both) while veggies are also well catered for with the butternut squash and mushroom wellington. Move over cauliflower cheese, the leek and raclette gratin here is a must as a side dish.
DERBYHIRE
The Boot, Repton
One for real foodies, the Sunday lunches at this 2 AA* rosette gastropub are stand-out sensational. Recently revamped, this 17th century coaching inn it sits unassumingly in the historic little village of Repton but roasts are anything but. Melt-in-the-mouth Derbyshire ribeye, glazed pork belly, corn-fed chicken, or how about all three plus all the trimmings? Then wash it all down with a snuggly sticky toffee pud by the open fire. Cosy gastropub heaven. Yum.
Ashford Arms, Ashford-in-the-Water
New kid on the block The Ashford Arms has caused quite a stir since opening this spring and is already garnering a reputation for excellent, locally sourced food. There’s no holding back on Sunday roasts – from its lamp rump and beef sirloin to its root veg Wellington – which boast Derbyshire portions, huge Yorkshire puds and proper gravy.
Red Lion Restaurant, Chesterfield
Where better to cosy up for a winter roast by the fire than in the wilds of the Peak District? The Red Lion pub in the Peak Edge Hotel perches on the edge of the Peak District so is in prime spot as a cosy bolthole after a yomp in the hills. Expect a warm, friendly, relaxed atmosphere and excellent food with the emphasis on local and fresh.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
The Fellows House Hotel, Cambridge
Expect tradition with a twist at this super smart modern hotel on the edge of the city. The hotel’s restaurant, The Folio Bar & Kitchen, serves a Sunday Roast & Carvery served as a buffet on the first Sunday of every month and it’s well worth booking. You can watch the chefs hand carve your meat in front of you and then help yourself to as many roasties as your plate (or stomach) can fit! We’re still dreaming about the out-of-this world cauliflower cheese that comes as a side and would highly recommend this roast for kids who don’t like sitting still for too long!
The Carpenters Arms, Great Wilbraham
Hot pink walls, roaring fires, a warm welcome for dogs and their owners and a top-notch traditional roast dinner await at this stand-out pub in Great Wilbraham in South Cambs. If you’re craving a really good classic roast, with moreish gravy and perfectly-executed sides and a choice of Hereford beef sirloin, Gloucester Old Spot rolled pork belly or Claydon Farm chicken breast, this is the place to come. Make a trip of it and book one of the four lovely rooms upstairs, where your dog is welcome too.
SUFFOLK
The Crown, Bildeston
Any gastropub-goer worth their triple cooked chips will have heard of The Crown, Bildeston a wonderfully characterful Suffolk pub with its 3 AA Rosette status and reputation for fantastic roasts. It’s owned by nearby Nedging Hall Estate and the garden team provides a lot of the local produce used in the estate-to-plate menus. While the roast sirloin is a meal you won’t forget for a long while, what makes this Sunday lunch extra special is the cosy surroundings – all wonky beams, cute little nooks and crannies, large fireplaces and secret stairways. Make the trip for this roast an occasion and book one of the 14 gorgeous bedrooms upstairs too.
The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds
Demand for The Angel’s Sunday Roast is so high that the hotel has opened up The Vaults underground restaurant to make space for diners to enjoy this weekend treat. On the menu? Dingley Dell pork with homemade apple sauce, roast leg of local lamb and a blushing-pink sirloin of Red Poll beef, all sourced from local farms ad served with all the trimmings you could desire. While we love The Eaterie’s gorgeous interiors – all blue velvet banquettes and eye-catching art, The Vaults with its exposed brick and sultry lighting would be a unique place to enjoy the brilliant food and top-notch service that The Angel is known for.
SOMERSET
The Swan, Wedmore
Can’t decide between dry-aged topside of beef with horseradish, slow-roasted pork with fennel or roasted free-range chicken breast with a pork, sage and prune stuffing? The cosy gastropub on the edge of The Level’s got the answer: order The Swan triple roast which gives you all three (nice), along with herby roasties, Yorkshires, roasted celeriac mash, braised red cabbage, seasonal greens and gravy. Also on the Sunday menu, a no-nut roast and other non-roast mains. Sunday a la carte is served all day Sunday from noon until 9pm.
The Clockspire, Milborne Port, nr Sherborne
The food looks (and tastes) as good as your surroundings at this contemporary Michelin-listed restaurant in a former Victorian schoolhouse. Sunday roasts can include roast pork belly with onion & sage stuffing and caramelised apple sauce; roast Creedy Carver chicken breast with sourdough sauce; or a nut and lentil cake with watercress sauce. All come with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, seasonal greens, carrots and cauliflower cheese. Go to the top of the class! Two courses £40; three courses £50.
DORSET
The Priory Hotel, Wareham
Head chef Stephan Guinebault, at the country house hotel and restaurant on the banks of the River Frome, has a classical French training and French Michelin-starred experience. But the Sunday roast sirloin of Maiden Castle Farm Aberdeen Angus beef still comes with Yorkshire pud and horseradish, the loin of Purbeck pork with apple sauce and thyme gravy – though you can expect Griottine cherries (macerated in eau de vie) with your Creedy Carver duck breast. Their beautiful riverside gardens are perfect for a post-prandial stroll. £50 for three courses.
The Castle Inn, West Lulworth
You’re within walking distance of Dorset landmarks Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove at this ancient, picture postcard thatched pub: ideal for a bracing walk on the beach/lunch in a cosy pub combo. Come for the a la carte Sunday roast and chomp on rump of Hereford and Angus beef, Cameron Naughton pork belly ‘porchetta’, Castlemead Farm chicken, vegetable Wellington with mushroom gravy – served with all the trimmings. If you don’t mind eating later, you get three courses for the price of two after 3pm. Have a glass of Butcombe beer while you’re there.
WILTSHIRE
The Wellesley Arms, Sutton Benger
Fancy spending the afternoon sipping on a glass of red by a roaring fire? Head to The Wellesley Arms, a cosy country inn with a contemporary twist. Think leaded windows and parquet floors, teamed with wooden tables and intricately patterned wallpaper. With its divine roasts, this place begs to be your Sunday afternoon stop-off. Choose from chicken, locally reared pork or beef, plus all the trimmings. The cauliflower and leeks in cheese sauce is not to be missed! There’s a veggie option too, plus four-legged friends are welcome to join in the fun – they ask that you let them know when you book.
The Dumb Post, Bremhill
Weave your way along the quiet lanes from Calne, and you’ll find this honey-hued haunt, teetering high above Wiltshire’s rolling fields. Owners Beth and Richard have overseen immaculate renovations since they took the reins, and they are passionate about sourcing local produce. Fresh fruit and veg comes from local supplier V&P Collins, pork shoulder hails from Seend and their beef sirloin and lamb are home reared on the family farm, literally a hop across the field. This is also a great spot for a stonking country walk – work up an appetite by exploring the local village on the Bremhill Loop. Roasts come with yorkies, roast potatoes, parsnips, gravy and seasonal veg. Hungry for more? Top it up with a bowl of cauliflower cheese, or sausage and sage stuffing. Delish!
The Great Bustard, Great Durnford, Salisbury
The recently-opened Great Bustard has already earned rave reviews, thanks to its oh-so-stylish décor and epic food. Choose from the restaurant, with its vast floor-to-ceiling windows and pretty views, or the cosy pub. With its wingback chairs and roaring fire, this is the perfect spot for wellies and waggy tails. Sunday roast is taken seriously here – you can expect all the trimmings (and then some), plus small plates to get you started. Ingredients are local and impeccably sourced, with pigeon breast and lamb hailing from the Great Durnford Estate, and the beef from a farm just down the road. When it comes to pudding, your Sunday options are unapologetically indulgent. Apple tart with muscovado anyone? Or how about a chocolate delice with blackberries? Either way, it’s worth working up an appetite beforehand. Enjoy a stomp around Stonehenge, a mere three miles away.
The Three Daggers, Edington
The Three Daggers is a super-relaxed pub, perched in a gorgeous setting on Wiltshire’s rolling downs. With its red brick exterior, cosy interior and flawless food, it exudes all the character you’d want from a quintessential English boozer. Another big bonus is the adjacent village
SURREY
No 15 Restaurant and Bar, Chobham
This brand new restaurant and bar – which locals will know as The Red Lion – is taking things up a notch with new menus and a fresh new decor, but the same owners and team. The multi-award winning venue (including a Muddy award, no less) offers superb food – and the Sunday roast will not disappoint. There’s a choice of top rump of beef, Welsh lamb rump, half corn-fed chicken all served with the roast potatoes and parsnips, carrots, and Yorkshire puds, plus seasonal veg and proper homemade gravy. There are also vegetarian and vegan options.
The White Horse, Dorking
Head to the pretty market down of Dorking to this cosy gastropub with rooms. The 13th century coaching house – where Charles Dickens wrote his first novel The Pickwick Papers is part of the Heartwood Collection. The pub has been restored with a welcoming fireplace and several stylish dining areas with cute nooks and crannies. Roast-wise they’ll do you proud. The Sunday lunch is served with bottomless roast potatoes, giant Yorkshires and rich gravy, plus seasonal vegetables and creamy cauliflower cheese.
YORKSHIRE
The Angel at Hetton, Skipton
This Michelin Star restaurant in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales boasts generous portions of morish dishes. The Scandi-style décor and friendly staff make for a welcoming vibe, with the roast nothing short of a showstopper. We’re talking 50-day aged Waterford Farm côte de boeuf for two to share and all the trimmings. Crisp roast potatoes, meltingly-delicious cauliflower cheese and pommes Boulangère, as well as the largest, lightest Yorkshire pudding. Pre-order is a must for a roast, from £85pp and served from midday to 13:30.
The Abbey Inn, Byland
Recently voted the top spot for a roast (phew, this is Yorkshire after all) this relaxed and historic country pub with rooms overlooks the famous Byland Abbey ruins. So why not make a stay of it? Describing its menu as reimagined classics, the Sunday roast menu features rare-breed Berkshire Pork, Herdwick Lamb or Dexter Beef, reared on the doorstep at the family farm, served with Toad in the Hole (wot, no Yorkshire?) with seasonal veg. Plus, there is a Mushroom Wellington for veggies in the house.
The Wensleydale Heifer, West Witton
Renowned throughout Yorkshire and beyond for its Sunday lunch, this is the perfect spot to round off a walk, welcoming muddy humans plus their furry friends. It’s also been visited by HRH, The Princess Royal. The 2 AA Rosette restaurant serves up hearty portions of Grand Reserve 35-day-aged sirloin; organic pork belly with crackling, apple & cider sauce; roast rump of Yorkshire lamb or a garlic & thyme roast chicken dinner. If you can’t move afterwards, there are luxury rooms themed on Champagne, gin, chocolate and more. What’s not to love, especially when located in one of the prettiest corners of God’s Own County?
CHESHIRE
The Edinburgh Castle, Manchester
This Dickensian-style boozer, tucked away on the fringes of Ancoats, conjures up one of the most decadent Sunday roasts I’ve ever tucked into. Book ahead and huddle inside on one of the wooden tables, kicking off with sourdough from Pollen bakery and a couple of oysters. And then for the main event. There’s highland beef served lovely and pink or lamb shoulder with leek relish. Carrots braised in wild garlic and buttermilk, Yorkies, crispy roasts, veg cooked so beautifully it’s never an afterthought and mounds and mounds of gravy. Or if you arrive early, order the whopping Cheshire rabbit and Mangalitza bacon pie for two. Room for more? Puds include salted caramel choux bun or rhubarb sorbet with cider brandy. It’s all outstanding.
The Roebuck Inn, Mobberley
On weekends, this ivy-clad pub is teeming with locals curling up from the cold after a rosy-cheeked walk. Grab yourself a table beside the fire and order a bloody mary or large red whilst you’re waiting for your roast. My advice? Go for the 28 days-aged Cheshire beef, served sliced with a Yorkshire pud, duck-fat roast potatoes and parsnips cooked in honey. In fact, if you’re from out-of-town, the pub offers its Room and Roast package for £175, which includes a night’s stay in one of its quirky rooms, a Sunday roast and a full English the following Monday morning. Who’s in?
ISLE OF WIGHT
The Red Lion, Freshwater
Tucked away in the idyllic village of Freshwater, The Red Lion is the only Isle of Wight restaurant here to have a spot in the Michelin Guide and an AA Rosette rating. Dog and family-friendly with stunning walks all around and absolutely zero pretensions, the pub has plenty of cosy character. Islanders and those that venture here from over the water are treated to Sunday roasts of locally sourced meat and fresh veggies from the pub’s own gardens.
The Cow at Tapnell Farm, near Yarmouth
Better known for its burgers, from September onwards this quirky chalet-style bar and grill restaurant at Tapnell Farm also serves up terrific Sunday roasts made using top-notch Isle of Wight meat and produce. Book a table after a family day out at the Farm Park or make a weekend of it and book a cosy cottage or luxe glamping adventure.
WEST MIDLANDS
West Midlands
Coombe Abbey, Coventry
You can book to eat in this stunning hotel’s Garden Room Restaurant, but for a real treat get the family together for its We Cook, You Carve experience. It is a three-course roast with all the trimmings, served in a private dining room of your choice. Fancy!
The Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield
This beautiful pub with stunning interiors, is nestled right next to Sutton Park. Blow out the cobwebs with a nice long stroll before sitting down to tuck in to a huge roast and a glass of red. You can take the pooch too.
