Destination Sunday
Working its way across London and further afield in Surrey in search of the ultimate Sunday lunch destination for this autumn, Total Management Lifestyle finds its most desired fireplaces and roasted favourites.
The Wiremill
Hidden in the depths of the English countryside and perched on the border between the counties of Sussex and Surrey, lies charming lake-side pub, The Wiremill. Down an unassuming (and bumpy) country lane – keep going, it’s worth it – you will find this quirky inn nestled amongst the greenery and be greeted by stunning lake views. In the summer months, you can take a seat on the pub terrace and watch the local wildlife on the water (as well as a few brave water sports enthusiasts) and in the winter you can warm up inside this cosy inn. With wooden beams and chic furnishings, the interiors are reminiscent of traditional English pubs, yet add a certain finesse which is often lacking at some of the local spots. Most importantly, the food on offer only adds to the atmosphere, serving up modern twists to classic British dishes. Tables fill up fast so make sure to book in advance and head over for a wonderful pub meal in the country.
Wire Mill Ln, Felbridge, North Lingfield RH7 6HJ
The Anchor
One of Ripley’s oldest pubs, The Anchor on Ripley High Street in leafy Surrey, forms part of the Steve Drake empire – he is also Chef Patron of Michelin Starred Drake’s Restaurant located next door, although perhaps not for much longer since he is soon due to be pursuing new projects further afield. The Anchor however will continue to stay under his wing where his steadfast innovative menu draws diners from far and wide. The building itself dates back to 16th century. Recent refurbishments have maintained its charming old world-style with wooden floors, fireplaces and a large bar.
High St, Ripley GU23 6AE
The Anchor, Ripley
The Black Swan
Another guaranteed ultimate-roast location, The Black Swan nestled in the beautiful Surrey countryside, in the village of Ockham, is a local dining hotspot serving traditional British food with high quality local produce. The restaurant has a very cosmopolitan décor albeit still keeping its traditional Englishness with the unmissable open fireplace, the wooden floor, the heavy wooden tables and exposed ceilings beams. Enjoy the sunny season in the lovely beer garden or the chilly autumn days inside next to its expansive fireplace.
Old Lane, Ockham KT11 1NG
The Marksmann
Back to London, Hoxton to be exact, we find ourselves in The Marksman on Hackney Road. Without doubt one of the most exciting pub refurbishments in recent times, this pub combines the beauty of the traditional British boozer with pretty high end and high quality cuisine. With ex-St John chefs at the helm, the menu is unwaveringly good. Traditional roasts, handmade sourdoughs and homemade condiments are all accompanied by locally sourced vegetables, meats and fish. Its cosy set up makes it a definitive winner for the winter months ahead.
254 Hackney Road, London E2 7SJ
The Spaniards Inn
Located on the edge of Hampstead Heath, close to Kenworth House, this popular Sunday lunch location is an ideal post-walk hide out for dog owners and groups of friends. This traditional 16th century pub has had its fair share of history, from featuring in Dickens’ “The Pickwick Papers” to being the supposed spot where Keats penned “Ode to a Nightingale”. Reminiscent of these times gone by, the Spaniards Inn has charmingly higgledy-piggledy interiors, filled with dark woods and plush furnishings. Despite its stylings as a traditional country pub, it still retains its city-flavour, offering a varied and modern British menu alongside speciality and seasonal craft beers. Pop in after a ramble on the Heath and enjoy a well-deserved rest on the sun terrace or warm up inside by the hearth.
Spaniards Rd, Hampstead, London NW3 7JJ
The Commercial
Nestled between the market stalls on Herne Hill’s Railton Road market, The Commercial is one of our all-time favourite spots to grab a drink or indeed a Sunday roast between market shopping or strolls on nearby Brockwell Park. In winter where better to escape the chill than here, with its open fire and cosy interior you simply cannot beat it.
212 Railton Road, London SE24 0JT
Main image: The Marksmann, Hackney
September 5th 2016