The Ostrich

The Ostrich dates back some 900 years – it’s supposedly the third oldest inn in England – & is a rambling monster of a place. The modern interior may come as a bit of a surprise after viewing the wonky timbered facade, but a huge amount has been spent on the jazzing up the beams & standing timbers with black slate floors, chunky, contemporary wooden furniture, brilliant jewel colours & stained glass. With the M4 & M25 just a mile or so away, the extensive menu is tailored to the needs of the area. Busy lunches deliver sandwiches, burgers, salads & pasta; blackboards focus on sausages, pies & fresh fish, while a carte promises the likes of black pudding & apple fritters with honey & mustard dressing, confit duck leg with Puy lentil & bacon cassoulet, or pea, broad bean & pecorino risotto.