£££Modern British
What was once a historic village pub is now this intimate restaurant providing a platform for Chef Mark Poynton. Housed inside a 16th-century building, it's a cosy space with a rustic touch to the décor. Poynton and his brigade offer three lengths of set menu and the dishes shine at their simplest, when the high-quality produce provides plenty of flavour. Modern, simply furnished bedrooms are available so you can stay overnight and make your visit a real event.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Ancient Shepherds by Mark Poynton offers Modern British cuisine in Milton, holding a 4.3/5 average from 80 TripAdvisor reviews. Positive feedback highlights the inventive, flawlessly executed 5-to-7-course tasting menus, fresh local produce, and excellent wine pairings. Service is frequently described as professional, friendly, and relaxed. Conversely, negative reviews cite issues such as overcooked fish, under-rendered duck skin, and small portion sizes. Some guests found the food mediocre or overpriced, while others criticized the restriction to tasting menus only, limited choices, and strict policies regarding allergies and underage drinking. The atmosphere is generally pleasant but receives mixed comments regarding value and consistency.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern British cuisine and expert wine service, though those sensitive to price or with specific dietary restrictions should proceed with caution.
£££Modern British
A labour of love from the owners behind Restaurant Twenty-Two – and located right next door – this soothing space comes with plenty of neutral tones, giving it a simple, relaxing elegance. The opening selection of breads, dips and nibbles is a brilliant way to start, featuring highlights such as a beautifully made focaccia and a creamy whipped butter bean dip. Across the menu, the vibrant cooking moves with the seasons and pushes delicious natural flavours to the fore. The wonderful service team are engaging and knowledgeable in equal measure.
£££spanish
Located a stone's throw from Trinity College, this brightly decorated townhouse is home to a Spanish restaurant exuding a warm, buzzy vibe – whether you admire the open-flame cooking on the ground floor or sit in the quieter upstairs dining room. Northern Spain has the largest influence on the menu, with Galicia and the Basque Country featuring prominently among dishes built around proudly sourced produce of great quality, such as wonderfully marbled presa Ibérica. Save room to finish with the 'tarta de Santiago'.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Mercado Central, located in central Cambridge, specializes in Spanish cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high quality of ingredients and authentic flavors, particularly in seafood and Tapas, alongside an impressive wine list managed by knowledgeable staff. Service is generally described as welcoming and attentive, though some diners note issues with meal pacing or staff unfamiliarity with specific dietary requests. The atmosphere is lively and social, but noise levels in certain areas can be distracting. Opinions on value vary significantly; while some find the pricing reasonable for the quality, others consider portions small or prices high relative to the experience. It is a popular choice for those seeking genuine Spanish dining, but may not suit visitors prioritizing quiet ambiance or strict budget constraints.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic Spanish flavors and a vibrant atmosphere, best visited during off-peak hours.
£££Vegetarian
A large, open-plan kitchen takes centre stage at Vanderlyle, which blends shabby chic styling with designer comfort. The well-balanced tasting menu is all about showing off the power of vegetables with imagination and creativity, along with a passion for seasonal produce – all evident in dishes like roasted wild mushrooms with Roscoff onion and Bordelaise sauce. The friendly service team run the restaurant well and the wine or soft drinks pairings enhance the experience. It’s a popular spot, so book in plenty of time.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Vanderlyle, a vegetarian restaurant in Chesterton, holds a 4.9/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Guests consistently praise the high food quality, attentive service, and atmosphere. The twelve-course seasonal menu is highlighted for its complex flavors and beautiful presentation, with some noting the engaging interaction with Chef Alex. While a minority of reviews mention occasional pacing issues or questions regarding value, the overwhelming consensus describes the dining experience as memorable and exceptional.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality vegetarian cuisine and a unique dining atmosphere.
££Classic French
The vibrant Mill Road is a focal point for Cantabrigians looking for everything from independent eateries to small antique shops, and this friendly restaurant brings a generous dose of enthusiasm to the area. The eponymous Dan Fancett and his team demonstrate both great care and skilled craft in their preparation of generously portioned dishes that are French to their core, such as the terrific twice-baked cheddar soufflé and the pear tarte Tatin for dessert.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Cherry Hinton, Fancett's specializes in classic French cuisine, holding an average rating of 4.8/5 from 80 reviews. Food quality is highly praised, with dishes like lamb shoulder croquettes and guinea fowl noted for excellence. The menu is small but offers flexibility for vegetarians. Service is generally warm and welcoming, contributing to a cozy, intimate atmosphere. However, some guests criticize meal pacing and portion sizes, noting that the value for money can be questionable, particularly regarding wine pricing and limited options for specific dietary restrictions. While the culinary execution is top-tier, diners should be aware of the modest portions and potential service inconsistencies.
Suitable for diners prioritizing culinary quality and intimacy over large portions.
££Modern British
Set near the green in a pretty village, is this smart modern pub named after the 15C flint bridge which spans the river. Understated modern dishes have subtle yet effective flavour combinations and use the best local ingredients. Ultra-stylish bedrooms have plush furnishings and roll-top baths.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
The Packhorse Inn in Moulton holds a 4.2/5 rating. Positive reviews highlight excellent service, particularly from staff members Tia, Anna, and Silas, who are praised for their attentiveness and ability to accommodate dietary needs. The atmosphere is generally described as welcoming and suitable for celebrations. However, negative feedback points to inconsistent food quality, including issues with meal pacing, overcooked or dry dishes, and small portion sizes. Some guests found the value lacking relative to expectations. While the ambiance and specific service interactions are strong, the dining experience varies significantly based on the dishes ordered.
Suitable for diners prioritizing personalized service and celebrations, though checking dish specifics is advised.
£££Modern Cuisine
Plenty of original features have been left intact at this delightful 18th-century watermill. Downstairs is a stylish bar where the old workings are still in situ, while above this sits the beamed restaurant with black furnishings and its own share of characterful touches. Good quality seasonal produce is showcased in modern dishes available from both a tasting menu and an à la carte, with the chocolate marquise a great way to end if you get the chance. The attractive outbuildings play host to some of the bedrooms.
£££Modern British
Sit in the rustic bar, modern restaurant or lovely garden of this charming whitewashed pub with Tudor origins. Menus are named after ploughing terms: ‘The Seam’ makes use of offcuts from main menu ‘The Furrow’. British and Mediterranean influences combine and there’s a great cheese selection.
£££Modern Cuisine
Those who like to see chefs at work will find their paradise at this 20-seater counter in the heart of Bury St Edmunds. A chef-led operation, where the kitchen team both cook and serve their dishes, it’s the brainchild of Spanish chef Ruben Aquilar Bel and his Hungarian-born wife Gabi, who makes the desserts and the excellent bread. Sharing plates are an option at lunch, while only a tasting menu is served for dinner, showcasing Spanish flavours with a degree of restrained creativity. "Yaya Bel’s Iberian Ham Croqueta" is a lovely snack to start, paying homage to Ruben’s grandmother.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 58 reviews
Bellota in Bury St Edmunds offers modern cuisine with an average rating of 4.9/5 from 58 reviews. Food quality is frequently praised for its flavor and presentation, though occasional critiques note minor cooking inconsistencies or unmet expectations. Service is generally described as professional and attentive, complemented by a warm, modern ambiance featuring an open kitchen that adds theatrical value. Some guests mentioned issues with meal pacing, while others appreciated the no-tip policy. The restaurant is noted for its inventive dishes and intimate setting, providing a refined dining experience that balances culinary skill with engaging service.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine and a unique open-kitchen experience.
£££French
A converted 17th-century house plays host to this town centre restaurant that – as the name would suggest – is firmly French at heart. The cooking is classic Gallic in base, with occasional modern and international touches on show. Seafood is a strength, with fine produce like fresh tail of turbot cooked with obvious skill by the kitchen team. Your final course will be a treat too, with desserts like brûlée of pear as well as excellent French cheeses from the trolley – accompanied by some fine wines by the glass.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Maison Bleue in Bury St Edmunds holds a high reputation with an average rating of 4.8/5. Reviews frequently praise its authentic French atmosphere, high-quality food, and attentive service, highlighting the cheese selection, seafood mains, and extensive wine list. The restaurant accommodates gluten-free diets and offers private rooms for groups. However, some negative feedback mentions inconsistent meal pacing, bland or tough dishes, and issues with online booking systems and price discrepancies. While most visitors describe it as a top-tier dining destination, occasional lapses in service and food consistency are noted.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic French cuisine and elegant ambiance, with advance booking confirmation advised.
£££Modern Cuisine
This small, sweet building overlooks an abbey and a cathedral in the centre of this historic market town. Over the years, it has been a police station, a bus shelter and a florist; now it’s a pared-back restaurant with modern art adorning the whitewashed walls. Choose from a great range of modern small plates that deliver satisfying, carefully judged flavours with a definite Mediterranean influence. Dishes could include cod cheek tempura or sopressini cacio e pepe – if you can’t make your mind up, go for the ‘Kitchen Selection’.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Lark in Bury St Edmunds is noted for modern cuisine. Many reviews praise the high-quality ingredients, skilled preparation, and exquisite presentation. The atmosphere is generally described as cozy and vibrant, with friendly and professional service. However, some diners find the space cramped with basic seating, making it less suitable for romantic evenings. Opinions on value are mixed; while some find the experience worthwhile, others feel portions are small or prices high, with isolated reports of poor service. It is a technically proficient restaurant where comfort and cost-effectiveness vary by individual preference.
Suitable for diners seeking refined modern cuisine who can tolerate compact spaces; not recommended for those seeking a spacious romantic setting.
£££Modern British
There are few more inviting sights in Britain than a proper thatched pub. The Chubby Castor is a fine example, a 400-year-old village inn whose chocolate-box exterior belies its more modern, bright and somewhat glitzy interior design that stretches from a smart lounge into the intimate, linen-laid dining room. The cooking, overseen by experienced chef-owner Adebola Adeshina, is centred around time-honoured recipes that deliver on flavour. For dessert, look out for the wonderful Firetree chocolate with peanuts and caramel.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Chubby Castor in Water Newton offers Modern British cuisine with an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.6/5 from 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights food quality, service, and atmosphere, particularly praising the plant-based tasting menu and friendly staff. However, negative reviews cite issues with meal pacing, cold or tough food, and limited wine options with small portions. While many find the experience wonderful, some report disappointment regarding value and service knowledge.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality plant-based cuisine and a warm atmosphere, though be mindful of pacing and wine selections.
£££Modern Cuisine
Set in the orangery of the Haycock Manor Hotel, a lovingly restored former coaching inn, this bright, colourful restaurant sports bird cage chandeliers, pergolas and a faux olive tree. Choose from three set menus of up to 8 courses, which demonstrate the precision of the chefs and a keen understanding of their quality ingredients. Natural flavours are allowed to shine and the sauces and consommés are a real highlight, like a rich, appetisingly glossy duck jus.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located near the A1 in Wansford, Prévost @ Haycock Manor is a convenient stop for travelers between London and the North. Based on 80 reviews averaging 4.7/5, guests frequently praise the high-quality modern cuisine, creative multi-course tasting menus, and attentive service, with managers often explaining wine pairings. However, some negative feedback highlights inconsistent meal pacing, slow service response, or insufficient staff during busy periods. A few reviewers noted that recent renovations have resulted in a less welcoming atmosphere, and isolated complaints mentioned underwhelming dish textures. While the food and overall experience are highly rated, service reliability remains a point of concern for some visitors.
Suitable for travelers seeking high-quality modern cuisine and refined dining experiences, with advance confirmation of service arrangements recommended.
££Modern British
When the weather’s right, make a beeline for the lovely terrace of this beautiful 17th-century barn, which sits in a charming spot at the centre of a seven-acre vineyard, where there’s nothing but nature as far as the eye can see. Classically based cooking relies on well-sourced seasonal ingredients – many of which come from their own farm – and dishes are brought to the table by a charming team. The wine list includes a strong selection of classics and, of course, their own vintages too – plus the shop houses a plethora of goodies to take home.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.8/5 · 80 reviews
Leaping Hare in Bardwell offers dining in a converted historic barn with a peaceful atmosphere. Based on 80 reviews averaging 3.8/5, guests frequently praise the food quality, attentive service, and unique setting, making it suitable for family gatherings. However, negative feedback highlights inconsistent service, slow meal pacing, disorganized seating, and limited menu options, particularly for breakfast. While some find the value good, others cite high prices and poor experiences. The venue is visually stunning and generally well-regarded for its cuisine, but service reliability varies. Visitors should book in advance and manage expectations regarding wait times and staff attentiveness during peak hours.
Ideal for diners seeking a unique barn setting and modern British cuisine, though service consistency may vary.
££Modern Cuisine
The bucolic village setting, lush gardens and well-kept exterior bode well as you approach this lovely village inn. Once you enter, its charming spell remains unbroken, with a friendly team and bags of character. The décor blends the modern and the traditional with aplomb, whilst maintaining a proper pub feel – you'll likely find a group of regulars and their dogs by the fire. The menu changes depending on the produce available, but you can expect gently modernised pub dishes, with steaks a feature of the menu, from sirloin to chateaubriand for two.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.0/5 · 80 reviews
The Brewers in Elmswell offers modern cuisine with an average rating of 4.0/5. Food quality is a standout feature, with praise for BBQ meats, slow-cooked ox cheek, and Sunday lunches, alongside strong gluten-free options. However, some diners found portions small and criticized specific items like gnocchi. Service is generally friendly and professional, though meal pacing can be slow, with waits up to 40 minutes. The ambiance is welcoming, featuring a cozy interior and a garden overlooking Rattlesden church. Value perceptions vary; while the food is well-prepared, wine prices are considered high by some, and portion sizes lead to mixed views on overall worth.
Suitable for diners seeking a cozy rural atmosphere and high-quality BBQ or slow-cooked dishes, with advice to check service speed and wine options beforehand.
££Traditional Cuisine
There's a pleasantly rustic feel to this welcoming high street pub sporting low beams and wooden furnishings. Classical dishes form the basis of the extensive menu, with tried-and-tested combinations like asparagus with hollandaise sauce proving a success. There's also a Mediterranean influence to the hearty cooking, plus the option of rare breed beef cooked over the Josper grill.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Derwent Haugh, Fox & Hounds holds a 4.9/5 rating on TripAdvisor based on 80 reviews. Guests consistently praise the friendly service and high-quality food, particularly noting the new menu items like curry, tacos, and desserts. The atmosphere is suitable for family gatherings, sports viewing, and social events, often featuring live music or discos. While a minority of reviews mention drainage odors and isolated staff misconduct, the overall experience is positive, establishing it as a well-regarded traditional pub.
Suitable for families and groups seeking friendly service, quality traditional food, and a lively social atmosphere.
£££Modern Cuisine
Chef-Owner Tom Clarke built up an impressive resume before returning to his Essex roots to open this lovely village inn with his partner. After a charming welcome from Nancy into the characterful interior, where a small bar still serves some local drinkers, it’s time to enjoy the hearty yet refined cooking. Classical flavour and texture combinations run throughout a menu served well by quality produce, with desserts like dark chocolate crémeux proving a real highlight.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
The Windmill in Great Cressingham holds an average TripAdvisor rating of 3.6/5 based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback highlights friendly service, cozy atmosphere, and generally delicious food, making it suitable for hikers on the Peddars Way and families. However, negative reviews cite inconsistent food quality, slow service, long intervals between courses, and poor reservation management. While many guests enjoy their stay, others report disappointing meals and unresponsive staff. Travelers should be aware of potential service delays and verify booking details in advance.
Suitable for hikers and families seeking comfortable rural accommodation, but verify bookings and allow extra time for dining.