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Shipston-On-Stour

The Royal Oak at Whatcote is a Michelin-starred pub located in the picturesque village of Whatcote, near Shipston-on-Stour. Established in 1168, it is one of the oldest pubs in the country, with a rich history that includes a visit from Oliver Cromwell in 1642. The restaurant, run by husband and wife team Richard and Solanche Craven, offers a seasonally driven, wild food-focused menu that emphasizes organic and locally sourced ingredients. The dining room, which seats 40, provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by a bar area featuring a pool table and darts. The menu changes with the seasons, with some dishes lasting six weeks to showcase the peak of their season, while others may be available for just a week or a single service—a fleeting, micro-seasonal snapshot. This approach supports sustainable land and woodland management, honors the natural balance of the land, and reflects the restaurant's commitment to preserving it for future generations.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the picturesque village of Whatcote, The Royal Oak is a charming pub that embodies the essence of traditional British hospitality. With its rustic wooden beams and cozy interiors, this establishment invites you to unwind and indulge in a delightful culinary experience. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for both locals and travelers seeking a taste of authentic English fare.

 The Royal Oak prides itself on sourcing ingredients from local farms, ensuring that every dish is fresh and bursting with flavor. From the moment you step inside, the inviting aroma of home-cooked meals fills the air, promising a memorable dining experience.

The menu at The Royal Oak is a celebration of seasonal produce, featuring standout dishes that showcase the best of British cuisine. One must-try is the slow-cooked lamb shank, served with a rich red wine reduction and accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes. Each bite melts in your mouth, revealing layers of flavor that will leave you craving more.

 For dessert, the homemade sticky toffee pudding is a crowd favorite, drizzled with warm caramel sauce and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful end to your meal.

One of the unique aspects of The Royal Oak is its commitment to sustainability. The chef often shares stories about the local farmers who supply the ingredients, fostering a connection between diners and the food they enjoy. This dedication to local sourcing not only enhances the flavor of the dishes but also supports the community.

The Royal Oak is celebrated for its locally sourced ingredients and traditional British dishes, particularly its slow-cooked lamb shank and sticky toffee pudding.

Visitors are drawn to The Royal Oak for its cozy atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that highlights the best of local produce.

The Royal Oak is conveniently located near several attractions, including the beautiful Cotswolds and historic market towns like Shipston-on-Stour.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Royal Oak offers a delightful escape into the heart of British cuisine. Come and savor the flavors, enjoy the ambiance, and create lasting memories. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbnFidEhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsV0hglbTcEgRMEwTby48TsI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQbnFidEhREAE

Exceptional food and really friendly service. We couldn't fault it. Loved the autumn/winter menu and the cosy pub interiors. It was amazing to hear about how all the produce was sourced. Everything is super local. We're a foodie couple and absolutely adored it! We'll be back!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfZ0s3Y2Z3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsV0hglbTcEgRMEwTby48TsI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfZ0s3Y2Z3EAE

An excellent experience.  Wonderful fine dining room with an emphasis on local produce.  Some interesting flavours and ingredients that you don't often see.  Staff were very friendly and the chef is happy to come out and chat.  Highly recommended!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3dU9EUEJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsV0hglbTcEgRMEwTby48TsI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3dU9EUEJREAE

Absolutely stunning.   The food was amazing!!!! And the service, probably the best I ever had.... lovely, laid-back and efficient.    We all loved the whole experience 💖

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyLU92M1F3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsV0hglbTcEgRMEwTby48TsI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyLU92M1F3EAE

Such a beautiful restaurant. The food here is absolutely amazing and delicious with lots of locally sourced ingredients. The staff are so friendly and an evening here is relaxing and special.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfMWZLbm93RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsV0hglbTcEgRMEwTby48TsI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfMWZLbm93RRAB

Fabulous. This place is wonderful. The food, the service, the atmosphere are all just top notch. If you’re in the area then go if you can and if you’re not in the area then plan a visit. The food is beautifully presented and you want to savour every bite. I’ve never thought I would start fantasising about loaves of bread until I tried their bread. Pricey but worth every penny!

Experience Fine Dining at The Royal Oak, Shipston-on-Stour

The Royal Oak at Whatcote is a historic pub dating back to 1168, making it one of the oldest in the country. It has been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, with a rich history that includes a visit from Oliver Cromwell in 1642.

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Live Music

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Coffee

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

The Royal Oak stands as a charming beacon of warmth and hospitality in the picturesque village of Whatcote, near Shipston-on-Stour, Warwickshire. This traditional English pub enchants visitors with its rustic allure, marked by ancient oak beams and softly glowing hearths that invite you to settle in for an evening of comfort and camaraderie. Whether you're seeking refuge after a long countryside stroll or looking for a cozy spot to indulge in culinary delights, The Royal Oak offers a delightful menu that celebrates local flavors with a modern twist. Savor the chef’s carefully crafted dishes that highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients, complemented by a selection of fine ales and wines that embody the region’s rich brewing heritage. The warm, inviting atmosphere radiates a sense of belonging, making it an ideal gathering place for both locals and travelers. Patrons often share tales over a pint, wrapped in the gentle embrace of countryside charm, as the magnificent Warwickshire landscape unfolds beyond the windows. It’s not merely a dining experience; it’s a cultural tapestry, where laughter dances through the air and the clinking of glasses marks the cadence of good company. The Royal Oak is a gateway to the heart of Whatcote, a quaint quintessentially English village, and a stepping stone to explore the stunning Cotswolds, with its rolling hills and enchanting stone cottages just a stone’s throw away. So come, let The Royal Oak welcome you with open arms; embrace the warmth of its hearth and the vibrancy of its community—an experience that defines the true spirit of English hospitality.

The Royal Oak

A selection of dishes showcasing seasonal British wild food, focusing on organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Pig's Head and Black Pudding Lasagne

Scallop and Langoustine Raviolo

Fallow Buck

Turbot

Blackberry Crumble Soufflé

Sample Menu

Discover the exquisite menu at The Royal Oak Whatcote

Nestled in the charming village of Whatcote near Shipston-on-Stour, The Royal Oak offers a delightful culinary journey that celebrates the best of British seasonal wild food. Emphasizing organic and locally sourced ingredients, the menu is crafted to provide an extraordinary dining experience for food enthusiasts seeking innovative flavors and authentic tastes.

Begin your meal with the rich and hearty Pig's Head and Black Pudding Lasagne, a unique combination infused with cider and finished with a crunchy hazelnut topping. For a taste of the sea, the Scallop and Langoustine Raviolo offers tender shellfish nestled in delicate pasta, complemented by braised leeks and a luscious shellfish sauce.

Mains that celebrate British game and fish

For main courses, indulge in the expertly prepared Fallow Buck, served alongside turnip, black cabbage, and a hint of damson, delivering a rich and earthy profile that showcases local game. Alternatively, the Turbot dish presents a refined selection of Crown prince squash, girolles mushrooms, chestnut dumplings, and a pumpkin seed crumble for a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

No meal at The Royal Oak would be complete without the Blackberry Crumble Soufflé. This dessert perfectly balances the sweet and tart notes of blackberries with a light, airy soufflé and a crunchy crumble, all served with a side of cultured milk ice cream that adds a creamy finish to this indulgent treat.

Complement your meal with an excellent selection of wines and beers, carefully chosen to enhance the seasonal dishes. The welcoming staff at The Royal Oak are always eager to recommend the perfect pairing. Guests can also enjoy unique seasonal specials that highlight the freshest local produce and innovative culinary techniques, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting.

 ensure freshness and sustainability in every dish.

 that evolves to reflect the best of British wild food.

 with a focus on flavor complexity and beautiful presentation.

Savor delightful dishes at The Royal Oak in Whatcote, Shipston-on-Stour. Experience cozy ambiance and local flavors. Book your table today!

The Royal Oak - Cozy Dining in Shipston-on-Stour

Shipston-on-Stour Municipality

Experience a seasonally driven, wild food-focused menu crafted by Chef Richard Craven.

Michelin-Starred Dining

A curated selection of dishes highlighting the best of local and seasonal produce.

Tasting Menu

Warwickshire

Experience Michelin-star dining at The Royal Oak in Whatcote. Enjoy locally sourced dishes and a cozy atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

The Royal Oak - Michelin-Star Dining in Whatcote

Discover itineraries and tips for visiting The Royal Oak. Enjoy fine dining, local flavors, and a rich history. Book your experience now!

Plan Your Visit to The Royal Oak, Whatcote

Learn about The Royal Oak, one of the oldest pubs in the UK. Discover its history, dining options, and community impact in Whatcote.

Experience Fine Dining at The Royal Oak, Shipston-on-Stour

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