The Chequers inn

Set in a picture perfect spot on a bank of the Thames, this long-standing bastion of culinary excellence continues to go from strength to strength. Luxury is at every turn, from the finest crockery to indulgent ingredients, and this, combined with the effortless service, creates a truly memorable dining experience. The menu lists newer creations alongside the French classics, with the kitchen’s exceptional craft on display throughout – be it in a sublime lobster jus or a textbook 'quenelle de brochet à la Lyonnaise'.

The Hand and Flowers' reputation goes before it, but not quite as many people are familiar with its younger sister, The Coach, despite 2025 having marked its 10th successful year. A cosy, compact pub it has a relaxed, informal vibe – and the sharing of dishes is positively encouraged. Lunchtime sees a set-priced menu, while dinner offers an extensive à la carte that includes everything from deep-fried cod with pease pudding or their ‘rotisserie of the day’ to sticky toffee pudding with beef suet. Cooking is of the highest order and the hugely satisfying dishes burst with punchy flavours.

For more than three decades, Heston Blumenthal and his team have blazed their own idiosyncratic trail at this iconic restaurant, where emotions and memories play a vital role. The dishes bear all the Heston hallmarks: innovative, playful and multi-sensory – epitomised by ‘Beside the Sea’, where headphones play the sound of seagulls, and 'Off to the Land of Nod', a nostalgic dessert involving Horlicks, an eye mask and edible 'pillows'. Crucially, for all its originality, the cooking also showcases harmonious and utterly delicious flavours and textures. A large, charming team guide you through t

Set in the Thameside village of Bray, this sweet, quintessentially English inn is best known as Heston Blumenthal’s informal dining option – but that doesn’t make it any less enticing. Concise menus offer time-honoured British dishes presented in a clean, modern style, with punchy flavours and the occasional playful element. The combinations work beautifully and dishes are executed with the utmost precision – look out for the delicious Bakewell tart in particular. Service is relaxed and friendly, and the atmosphere buzzes with the sound of contented diners.

Spend an hour or two at this lovely pub and you'll leave feeling a good deal happier than when you entered. The impressive kitchen and service teams will ensure you are looked-after and well-fed, inside the charming surroundings of their part-red-brick, part-timbered pub – which also boasts a lovely enclosed terrace. The cooking puts naturally delicious ingredients at the forefront and doesn't shy away from big flavours, like warming nudja with roasted poussin. Look out for the 'Steak Frites Night' and come midweek to make the most of the wallet-friendly pricing.

Your visit here will be an instantly enjoyable one thanks to the genuine warmth and friendliness of owners Daniel and Margriet. They are natural hosts, providing attentive service while making all their diners feel at ease. The setting for their endearing hospitality is a charming 17th-century former coaching inn that retains many of its original features. The cooking itself consists of eye-catching dishes that are refined yet hearty, showcasing carefully crafted, classic combinations which burst with natural flavours – like the terrific prune soufflé with Armagnac Anglaise.

Situated in a rural-feeling location on the London commuter belt, this appealing, well-run pub comprises several different areas; dine in the brighter room overlooking the terrace and pretty garden, or head straight outside on warmer days. The cooking is satisfying and seasonal, with the chefs skilfully weaving in subtle influences from across East and Southeast Asia, be it miso mushroom parfait, gochujang-glazed squid or Northern Thai red curry soup. The great value set menu, bright young team and well-chosen wine list all enhance the experience.