The Bottle & Glass Inn

Locals are congratulating themselves on this newish rendition of The Bottle & Glass, a quaint inn with a thatched roof and characterful bar, located just a short drive out of Henley. Even if some of its charm is diluted by a modern extension now housing two dining rooms, there’s no gainsaying the focus of the operation or its pedigree. Drinkers looking for a pint and a snack are as welcome as those in search of a big night out. The boys behind the operation have form, having met at the much-heralded Harwood Arms in London – so expect British fare with a modern twist and plenty of seasonal accents. Perhaps lead off with game terrine, pistachio and apricot or treacle-cured salmon with cucumber, horseradish and cockles, ahead of hay-smoked venison with celeriac or Cornish cod with cauliflower, hazelnuts and sea herbs. Summer visitors have the choice of a beer garden or dining on the terrace. 

The Bottle & Glass Inn is a charming pub with rooms nestled in classic Wessex land just outside Henley-On-Thames. Owners Alex Sergeant and David Holliday have built a food-focused British pub serving seasonal menus, a great wine list and a well loved beer selection that keeps punters coming back time and again. The building itself looks like a welcoming village pub both inside and out, with a thatched roof and black and white frontage, and comfortable interiors containing vintage furniture and a flickering wood burner.

The a la carte menu in the pub revolves around modern British classics which change often according to the seasons and its local suppliers. For a flavour of what to expect, snacks might include a sausage roll with burnt apple sauce, or 'Today's Scotch egg'. Starters might include a dressed crab tart with apple and pickle radish, while for main course you'll find a selection of meat, fish and veggie options, plus a choice of steaks and sauces. Think Fallow deer with swede fondant, creamed black cabbage, elderberry and dark chocolate, or curred monkfish with cauliflower, prawn dumplings and kettle lime sauce. 

The Bottle & Glass Inn also boasts a separate renovated Barn that serves coffee and pastries, breakfast and a brilliant burger menu seven days a week.  The large open space is kept homely by hanging lighting and repurposed seating and tables, offering the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. The menu here is more relaxed than the main pub, offering smoothies, snacks, a grilled cheese toastie and a selection of its signature Barn Burgers, all served with chicken salted fries.

Drinks revolve around a well-curated wine list, with a focus on crowd-pleasing European types. Elsewhere, peruse the range of local beers, Henley Gins, no and low drinks, and a selection of softs.