The Fox & Pheasant

Posho soldier-turned-troubadour James Blunt may be anathema to some, but he’s a hit with the Chelsea set, having rescued one of the area’s prettiest Victorian pubs. The Fox & Pheasant is set in The Billings, an enclave of postcard-pretty cottages at Stamford Bridge, and exudes a homely neighbourhood vibe in spite of its premium postcode. It’s especially cosy in winter when its three fires are roaring in their grates.

Blunt has made few changes to the 1930s utilitarian interior – sensible, given its place on Campaign for Real Ale’s National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors – but he has built a smart new rear-courtyard dining room, complete with a living wall and retractable roof. It was packed and noisy, but still atmospheric when we visited, though we imagine it’s a different story on days when Chelsea is playing.

Whether you’re rocking up here for a boozy weekend brunch with friends or a Sunday roast when your folks are in town, expect to dine on posh, modern English pub grub that’s actually surprisingly good value for the location. The brunch offering is small – think eggs various ways and things on toast – but the all-day menu has plenty of variety.

Snacks and starters include the likes of Scotch eggs, pork belly tacos and chicken liver parfait while mains include dishes such as lamb and mint pie with mash, braised red cabbage and green beans, and sea bream served with cauliflower, dukkah grains and rocket. Vegetarians do get a look-in, though choices are mainly leaf-based.

Sweet-toothed diners will delight in the pudding selection, which includes sticky toffee pudding, blackberry soufflé and chocolate fondant. Naturally there’s a cheeseboard too. In the bijou saloon bar, sample Magic Rock gluten-free IPA among the draughts; sip an Amaretto Sour, Negroni or Passion Fruit Martini; and snack on truffle, mushroom and brie on toast as you enjoy the country pub vibes.

Tucked away in a little corner of Chelsea is The Fox & Pheasant, a comfortable and cosy gastro pub owned by singer James Blunt which pays as much attention to its food offering as it does its selection of drinks. Despite its city credentials this backstreet local feels distinctly countryside thanks to rustic interiors and a certain charm from the warm and welcoming staff.

The pub’s history dates back to 1846, when it was originally founded as the Bedford Arms. Ten years later it was re-christened the Prince of Wales before settling for its current moniker in 1965. With such a lengthy legacy it’s of little wonder that you’ll find historic markers throughout. The three fireplaces give a sense of snugness perfect for cold winter days, while the wood panelling and lead-laced windows add to the feeling of a traditional (if upmarket) boozer.

As you might expect, The Fox & Pheasant serves a menu of pub classics alongside a selection of bar snacks, while the ever-popular Sunday roast is a weekly highlight (roasties, Yorkshires and plenty of gravy all come as standard). From the weekday line-up you’ll find the choice of dishes like steak and chips, beef and ale pie and a sweet potato and mushroom Wellington, while Saturdays bring a brunch that features crowd-pleasers like avocado on toast and eggs Benedict. A set menu during Tuesday-Friday lunchtimes means you can enjoy two courses for £18.50 – the perfect midweek pick me up we think.

If you prefer to prop up the bar then you’ll be pleased to know there’s a good selection of beverages on offer, with everything from fine wines and Champagnes covered through to craft beers and ales. To help you while away the hours there’s also a dartboard strung up for guests to use, while well behaved dogs are welcomes – and even provided with dog biscuits – should you wish to bring your sidekick.