The Crown at Ampney Brook

One the UK’s quaintest areas, the Cotswolds is famed for its historic country pubs. Amongst them, a particular name to remember is The Crown at Ampney Brook, a stylishly rustic pub and dining room in the village of Ampney Crucis. Well loved by locals but more than worth a visit for out of towners as well, the space has a warm, inviting feel underpinned by interesting design features like a hammered copper chimney in the main room and an assortment of vintage tables and chairs. Of course, much of its charm comes from the original, period details, courtesy of its 16th-century origins.

The menu pays homage to Britain’s natural bounty, highlighting local suppliers and inventing dishes depending on what’s in season. You’ll find a farm-to-table attitude here, complemented by the central, copper, open kitchen from which the chefs show off their cooking techniques.

While there are a selection of options, the main menu is a la carte and begins with some nibbles for the table such as chorizo spiced pork scratchings, freshly baked ancient grain sourdough and smoked ham hock croquette with green goddess sauce. Small plates are perfect for sharing and vary in flavour from hoisin glazed crispy duck and watermelon salad to Bloody Mary prawn cocktail with a spiced seaweed crumb.

Across the main dishes you’ll find plenty of nods to British classics like battered haddock with triple cooked chips and braised marrowfat peas, as well as chicken and ham pie with hand pressed beef dripping pastry, and finally confit belly of pork with golden beetroot piccalilli with crispy pressed potato. Each one, though, has been given a unique twist to bring a contemporary flair.

Similarly, the desserts list also features some puddings your Nan would be proud of: think wild strawberry Eton mess, sticky toffee pudding and apple and gooseberry crumble. We particularly like the sound of the St Clements Baked Alaska with orange sorbet, Italian meringue and Buck’s Fizz sauce.