Berkshire

The Royal County of Berkshire, commonly known as simply Berkshire, is a ceremonial county in South East England. It is bordered by Oxfordshire to the north, Buckinghamshire to the north-east, Greater London to the east, Surrey to the south-east, Hampshire to the south, and Wiltshire to the west. Wikipedia.
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Featured guides

Top places to visit

1

Reading

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Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
The town of Reading, located in the south of England, is a bustling hub with a rich history. It hosts an annual rock music festival that draws large crowds. The town centre is dotted with shops and eateries overlooking the Thames and Kennet rivers. Visitors can explore the Reading Museum to learn more about the region's past, including a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry from Victorian times.
2

Windsor

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Located in the southeastern region of England, Windsor is a town situated on the banks of the River Thames. To its west lies London. One of its most prominent attractions is Windsor Castle that has been a residence for generations of the British royal family since its construction by William The Conqueror in the 11th century. Over time, several monarchs have remodelled it extensively.
3

The Watermill Theatre

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Theater company
Concerts & Shows
The Watermill Theatre is a well-known, community-minded theater company that puts on new and touring productions in an intimate 220 seat auditorium. The Watermill Theatre has been praised for its production of some of the country's best new writing, as well as its adaptations of famous novels and Shakespeare plays.
I went with my granddaughter to see the musical adaptation of Graham Greene's Our Man in Havana at the Watermill Theatre in Newbury. It was the opening night. We had a two course meal beforehand. It was freshly cooked and quite delicious. Afterwards we walked in the beautiful gardens beside a small river. Taking out seats in the gallery, we climbed a winding staircase. The small Theatre of around 200 seats was full. The performance was lively and quite fun with singing and dancing. The Musical Director Antonio was on stage throughout the whole play, which was no mean feat! Apart from playing the piano and turning his own music sheets, he also sang as well as directed. The other performers were equally enthusiastic and dedicated to their roles. It was a lovely evening out in the countryside and I recommend The Watermill Theatre as a place to frequent.
Shirley Fox — Google review
We had a fabulous evening at the opening night of Lord of the Rings. Amazing cast, fantastic acting and an excellent front of house team. Thank you!
Joseph P — Google review
Brilliant small historic & traditional theatre set in the countryside, lovely staff & great performances, with a lovely setting and with a choice of facilities eg restaurant, cafe and bar. March 2024 a great evening to see Sherlock & the poison wood, great modern take to the character, plus tried the pre show dining room brilliant
Terry Davis — Google review
Lovely theatre and great pre show dinner. The seats are a little tight. We saw Spike which was highly entertaining.We were is Row M and could not see the actors on the balcony as the lights were on the way.
Polly Goodman — Google review
I wat he'd a family show here today and it was brilliant! They really got the kids involved! Absolutely loved it! They had some sweets which were only 80p each and drinks from the bar were really reasonably priced aswell! Great family day out!
Emma Skinner — Google review
I love this place. So quaint, beautiful surroundings and it feels like you're in your lounge when you watch a play. It's an intimate theatre! My only complaint would be the seats....they are a bit uncomfortable and there isn't a lot of leg room. If you can see beyond that, it's a great little theatre with some fab plays. There is a bar, a restaurant and parking. Book ahead for the restaurant, though, or you might be disappointed. Be careful of the ducks as you drive into the car park. They are very brave! Highly recommended 👌
Anne Skelton — Google review
We had an incredible evening watching the Lord of the Rings, a musical tale at the Watermill Theatre. Our first visit to the theatre. We had a very friendly welcome. It is a beautiful Theatre in a great setting. The production started outside in the garden before moving into the Theatre. The production was outstanding. All the cast were so talented playing multiple instruments. The set was very impressive and every part of the theatre was used to full effect. We had a magical evening and will definitely come to the Watermill again.
Isabel Culmer — Google review
A fabulous evening in an historic setting. Had a light supper and drinks in the garden before the performance. The Lord of The Rings musical was an exceptional experience, partly outdoors then moving into the theatre itself. We would most definitely recommend this venue, and only wish we lived closer as we would attend on a regular basis
Isobelle A — Google review
We visited this evening to watch Brief Encounter, which was excellent! A small and hugely talented group of actors (who were also great singers and musicians) performed a really entertaining, atmospheric and engaging adaptation of the story. I cannot recommend it highly enough, be sure to catch it if you can. We had a very nice meal in the restaurant before the show. The staff were friendly and efficient and it was a relaxed atmosphere that set up the evening perfectly. Thanks to everyone involved!
Terry Watt — Google review
A stunning location and building. The bar and catering was top notch. So well organised and reasonably priced. Arrive early to enjoy the surroundings. The pre ordered interval drinks were placed on a table which you were directed to by an usher after giving the name the order was placed under. There is also a beautiful Watermill that they have made visible through a viewing window just outside the theatre. Parking well organised Can't wait to visit again!
donna callaghan — Google review
Really great theatre in a nice area. Nice green spaces, pretty views and not near any busy roads. Production I went to see was excellent and made good use of the space including a few bits outside. Leg room in the seats is a bit of an issue if you're tall but everything else makes up for that.
bob griffiths — Google review
Experienced the best ever immersive theatre show here. The Lord of the Rings a Musical Tale.. We were welcomed along to film interviews with the creators.. A beautiful venue with water flowing and wildlife in the countryside! A performance venue like none other... Looking forward to our next shoot on the Yellow Brick Road... Spell-binding place.
John Ryan — Google review
What a magical place to experiment the new adaptation of LOR. Beautiful setting and an intimate theatre that allows you a truly immersive experience. It's a 4 hour drive for us to get there, but if I can get tickets I'll be back in a heartbeat. If you want a bite to eat there's a range of bites to choose from even a themed LOR menu.
Olivia Metcalfe — Google review
This theatre is an absolute gem with some of the most incredibly talented cast you will ever see, not just regionally but nationally. An intimate, atmospheric space where each actor generally plays instruments as well as sings and dances; just jaw-dropping to watch. Not only that but the scenery around The Watermill is incredibly beautiful with a stream running past and outdoor seating in the summer and a cosy bar and restaurant throughout the year. We have been going for decades, even before we were local and now take our children to weekly classes which are a highlight. An unforgettable experience every time we visit
Alexa Sabberton — Google review
One of the most beautiful theatres in West Berkshire. Great performances and activities behind the scene. It’s pure pleasure to come here and again enjoy an act.
M K — Google review
We went to see The Lord of the Rings at Watermill Theatre. It was a lovely small and cosy theatre. The show was excellent. I would recommend it to every Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan.
Meetali Dayabhai — Google review
It's va very beautiful place to visit. We had booked tickets for theatre and a table at their restaurant for full menu. Service was great. Food was so delicious and really well presented from starter to desert. Theatre was great too. We definitely going back in daylight as the atmosphere is and garden is beautiful. Huge thanks to all staff and also The Sherlock Holmes players. They are Fantastic.
Elli — Google review
4

Welford Park

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Park
Nature & Parks
Welford Park is a historical estate that offers visitors the chance to explore its beautiful gardens and woodland. During February, the park is home to an abundance of snowdrops, crocuses, hellebore and aconite. In addition to its natural beauty, Welford Park also sells pork products from pigs reared on the estate. Visitors can enjoy delicious food in a marquee or explore one of the many little rooms available nearby.
A magical place to visit for snowdrops in February with the densely populated flowers carpeting the ground like snow. There were crocuses, hellebore and aconite as well with daffodils peeping through. The food was well served in a marquee, and the little rooms were close at hand. Well worth a visit.
Martin Wells — Google review
Open every February/March for a Snowdrop walk. It has improved immeasurably over the 15 or so years I have visited. A fantastic display in beautiful grounds and now very accessible pathways and large tea tent
Alison Simpson — Google review
Gorgeous 17th century dower house famous for its snowdrop display (and more recently for a television programme about cakes). The annual pilgrimage to see the snowdrops is a local tradition. Excellent tea (and cakes) on offer for those who like that kind of thing, and don’t miss the beautiful and unusual round-tower church, St. Gregory’s.
Will Beharrell — Google review
Really lovely few hours walking the gardens and woodland at Welford. Would really recommend a visit. Well organised process from parking to leaving! Pricing may be a tad steep, but still a very nice way to spend an afternoon. Book in advance to save 10% on entry fee.
Martin Miles — Google review
Snowdrops at Welford Park, be amazed by the carpets of Snowdrops in the woods, as far as yhe eye can see - it really does look like snow. Large car park opposite with a short walk to the entrance. There are several paths to explore around the chalk streams before you reach the snowdrop woods with a path around it. You can explore the grounds further plus the estate church with its unusual round tower, visit the gift shop or grab a cake or maybe lunch in the marque by the house where service is quick and the offerings are home made. Dog friendly, and routes for pushchairs available, great for young children to wander and discover with you.
Jonathan Hoare — Google review
We visited the Festival of Lights at Welford Park inNov 2023 and it was excellent. Parking was easy and well signposted and car park staff were friendly and helpful. The illuminated route around the grounds was well lit, innovative, interesting and very enjoyable. Toilets at the start were superb and the food and drink at the end was most welcome and really good quality and value. A thoroughly enjoyable evening and will go again next year. Well done Welford Park - a brilliant evening.
Paul Gomm — Google review
A lot of money for what it is. Very busy narrow paths. Parking far away for some elderly and severely impaired and disabled people having to make their way from car park. Lovely staff but not worth £25.00 for 2adults and 2 young children.
Elena Santana — Google review
Nice grounds to admire those glorious snowdrops. Mind the gigantic queue in the tearoom, though, and better enjoy your picknick snacks with hot drinks from the garden hut.
Victoria Alimova — Google review
It a great place to visit, good walks with snowdrops at this time of year. Cake and coffee just great.
Paul Townsend — Google review
Nice day trip! Tea room staff are helpful and nice. Good pastry and homemade soup in reasonable price. Of course snowdrop carpet is amazing! 3 types of snowdrop were spotted by luck but believe more could be found if you look in details. Recommend for everyone.
Fiona Mak — Google review
Went for the Spectacle of Light. Very well organised with plenty of friendly staff around. Lovely hot chocolate half way round and a reasonable range of food at the end. Great 90 minutes and really sets the mood for Christmas.
Darryl Vickery — Google review
A lovely day out. Snowdrops absolutely stunning, beautiful river walk and scenery. Well worth a visit.
Linda Bentley — Google review
Went to the Spectacle of Light this evening with the family. My wife and I and three teenagers enjoyed the lights and music and the food and hot chocolate. The lights and atmosphere were fantastic, busy but not crowded. And the added bonus of being where "the great British bake off" is filmed. Dog friendly and the staff on site were great.
Richard Smart — Google review
Beautiful display of Snowdrops with woodland walks , a lovely church and coffee and delicious cakes ! . Easy to find with good access for all ages . Great day out .
Adrian Jones — Google review
Very friendly welcoming staff all over from entrance to café area, gift shop, and around the park. Beautiful snowdrops in the beginning of February are worth it to visit and walking through the paths. The ticket is not a lot at all, and the car park is free.
Elli — Google review
A lovely park and beautiful snowdrop wood. Well organised and trail set out well. I only gave 2 stars as £12 a ticket plus booking fee and £4 for an instant hot chocolate was not good value for money. The walk doesn’t take long and once completed, there isn’t really much else to see. I’m sure many more family’s could enjoy it if it was reasonably priced.
148 Julie — Google review
5

Highclere Castle

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Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Highclere Castle is a historic country residence, renowned for being used as a key filming location in the popular British television series Downton Abbey. Located in a picturesque setting, Highclere Castle boasts grand interiors and sprawling grounds that are open to visitors during seasonal periods. Guided tours are available and include visits to the castle gardens and nearby locations that were also featured in the show such as Bampton. Visitors can easily access Highclere Castle via car or by joining a tour group.
Absolutely gorgeous castle, a must for Downtown Abbey fans. Stunning gardens, plenty to see with great tea rooms. Great value for money too. Perfect day out.
Frances Casey — Google review
I recently visited Highclere Castle and had a wonderful experience. The tour guide was excellent, providing a wealth of information about the history and architecture of the castle. The grounds were also beautiful, and I enjoyed exploring them during the tour. To top off the visit, I had a lovely afternoon tea at the castle. The tea and sandwiches were delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect. Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Highclere Castle. The tour is informative and enjoyable, and the afternoon tea is a delicious treat
Duncan Andrews — Google review
Beautiful gardens, especially the wild flower meadow. Very interesting house and Egyptian exhibition. House includes pictures of the filming of Downton Abbey in the actual positions in the rooms where they took place. Good catering facilities with lots of inside & outside seating areas. Well worth a visit.
Judy Bird — Google review
Who hasn't seen Downton Abbey?! Highclere Castle is a grand and beautiful place. The visit was very interesting. It would have been nice to see more rooms, may be the servants quarter too. The Egyptian exhibition was fascinating and so well set-up. We had a walk in the garden too, so peaceful. It was such a lovely day. I only gave 4 stars as in both cafes, no vegan food was offered. We were surprised and disappointed as you can now find vegan anywhere.
Nathalie M — Google review
Really good experience. We had a guided tour which was very informative. Loads of on site parking. Easy enough to find. The lunch provided was more than expected which we all really enjoyed.
Rich Davis — Google review
Wonderful trip to Highclere Castle. Enjoyed looking round the castle, although a long queue to go in the (about an hour wait) but of course August is peak holiday time so I would expect it to be busy. The Castle grounds are wonderful with views stretching way into the distance. Plenty of trees and seats in the shade to shelter from the sweltering hot day. Hot and cold drinks plus sandwiches and snacks available at several little cafes around the central area with more than enough seating and tables. Staff very polite and helpful. We will definitely make a return visit at some point.
Cathy Hodson — Google review
As a big fan of Downton Abbey, I’ve wanted to visit Highclere Castle for years. The chance finally came when my wife and I were given tickets (including the afternoon tea box and Egyptian exhibition) as a wedding gift. We were not disappointed! A breathtaking view of the castle greeted us on arrival to the car park. From the moment we exited our car, we were treated kindly by all the friendly staff - including the car park attendants who enthusiastically welcomed us. Long story short, we were very impressed by not only the tidiness of every inch of this property - both inside and out - but by it’s beauty as well. Fans of the show who want to literally stand where their favourite characters have stood will have their wish fulfilled. Unfortunately, photography isn’t allowed inside the castle, but that’s actually a good thing as it keeps the flow moving and allows you to focus on the home instead of your camera or phone. Outside, the gardens and grounds are a must see, so wonderfully maintained. We were also pleasantly surprised by the quality and amount of food in our afternoon tea for two box. What a fantastic idea! We would definitely visit again and highly recommend it to anyone who’s interested.
Brad E — Google review
Huge Downton Abbey fan, this tour was 100% worth the time. We hired a car and driver for the day so we could also make stops on the way home. The food was fantastic really liked everything they gave as apart of the tour it was a really nice touch.
Mike Lewis — Google review
A beautiful castle and Home Stunning grounds too. The guides were very interesting and informative and particularly helpful with disabled clients, I was unable to negotiate stairs and they gave me a chair and photo book of upstairs whilst I waited for my relatives. Also showed me an easier way to see the Egyptian exhibition.
Frances Fagg — Google review
It was an absolutely wonderful experience. The castle is treasure to discover. The staff are knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. I told them that I am Canadian, and they took the time to explain the connection between Highclere and Canada. Then, we got to visit the staterooms, drawing rooms, libraries, dining room, and the great Egyptian exhibition. The grounds that are manicured to perfection with trees from all over the world and benches underneath so you can sit and just enjoy the moment. The beautiful gardens with all kinds of flowers and greenery look like something out of a book. The tea rooms that offer tantalizing goodies and, of course, nice souvenir shop with something to please everyone. I would go back any time. I recommend it to anyone to take the time to visit this place.
Doreen's Discoveries — Google review
As a big Downton fan this place is dreamlike! My husband doesn’t watch the show but he really loved it. It’s a wonderful castle as it’s furnished as the Earl & Duchess reside there. The guides are just so passionate and knowledgeable…we were lucky enough to spend time with Greg whose enthusiasm and real love for the castle is boundless. We found out so many details ..like the architect who designed West Minster also designed Highclere! We were not able to book timed tickets as they were sold out..but we went and lined up at 8:30am (ticket office opens @9am) on a Sunday morning (take a jacket) and we’re able to secure tickets. Make sure you buy the beautiful book at the entrance as you can’t take pics inside..all the gorgeous interiors are in the book. There are fantastic cafes on the grounds and don’t forget to visit the Secret Gardens. Amazing gift shop too. We were also lucky to see the Duchess with her beautiful Golden Labs on a walk..she is lovely. We didn’t want to leave.
Sheree Secrett — Google review
Wow! What a beautiful elegant place, well maintained and staff were very knowledgeable and informative. Even though it rained for us so didn't get to enjoy the stunning grounds surrounding the estate, it was a beautiful place. As with most places the gift shop was a little expensive but the cafe was reasonably priced, we even enjoyed a warm wild boar sausage in a baguette for lunch! Overall would definitely recommend this place whether your a 'downtown abbey' fan or not!
Rachel Adams — Google review
So much rich history beyond the charm of Downton. It's so wonderful that the family has opened their home to visitors to see. We loved every minute!
Benjamin Buckley — Google review
The location and building is fabulous. If you enjoyed Downton Abbey, then you will love the tour of the building. Just be aware access is limited to specific days of the year.
Michael Dickinson — Google review
Highly recommend. Absolutely smashing, worth the bit extra for the Egyptian exhibition as it tells a lot of the history. The house and grounds are just absolutely gorgeous. Food is a little limited. Gift shop has smashing assortment of bits. So delighted to have visited.
Han W — Google review
A really lovely experience and a must-see for any Downton Abbey fans. The house itself is gorgeous and very well-kept with lots of information about the behind the scenes of Downton Abbey. You can see into the rooms where various scenes were filmed and the furniture is exactly the same so you really feel like you’re stepping in there! The gardens are wonderful and well worth the time to walk around and see everything. The only thing for us, the castle doesn’t allow picnics on the grounds at all. A little bit disappointing in my opinion as you can purchase food on-site and eat it there, even if they had a designated area for picnics, I think it would be better. Just something to keep in mind if you are planning on taking food with you.
Beth J — Google review
Wonderful visit, superb house which is still partly Lived in, with the added bonus of the Egyptology collection and display. No photos of either as photography is banned inside the house. ( ironic as a major film series has been filmed inside the house!) . The grounds are magnificent with extensive views, with the best wildflower meadow I have ever seen , contradicting the Dolly Parton hit ‘ wildflowers don’t care where they grow’ - theses ones do and they have chosen well. A lovely day out with the usual tea and coffee , very good, ( plus the obligatory gift shop ). Access and parking easy and a good idea to book ahead.
Brian Cohen — Google review
My wife and I enjoyed the Downton Abbey series very much. As a Christmas gift I arranged a visit to Highclere Castle in January as a way to beat back those winter blues. A two hour guided tour was expensive but well worth it. A hardcover book and a nice tea (below stairs) were all part of the deal - very nice. There was also an excellent Tutankhamen exhibition. The Highclere website is quite formal but don't be put off by that, staff are friendly and many are great fun! We re- watched the series as a result and enjoyed it even more to know the 'we were there!' 🤭
Derek Jones — Google review
A great home to explore - well maintained and a well managed one-way route through the ground and first floors. Detailed history on the building is lacking but they do provide information cards in some rooms. There are helpful and knowledgable staff throughout the castle so do ask them any questions you may have. Photos and signs also tie back the various rooms to their use in the filming of Downton Abbey. There are a couple of cafe and food vans scattered through the property - nothing amazing but the food is reasonably priced. If you are arriving at Newbury station it may be wise to pre book a taxi and also arrange your pickup. Do be prepared that the taxi journey is very steep - £50+, if others are around ask to share the taxi and split the fare.
NSLondon — Google review
I’ve been watching Downton Abbey basically on repeat for the last 7 years. I was ECSTATIC when our family found out we were getting stationed in England a few years ago and Highclere has been on my must-see list ever since. We finally got to visit over Easter weekend and it was a dream come true! Lady Carnarvon was directing pedestrians to the house from the car park which I thought was great, very down to Earth. I totally fangirled when we saw her. 😂 The house was a dream and I loved getting to see the rooms that I’ve become so familiar with these last several years via the show. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if we could take photos inside. I get that it’s their private home and they have family photos out, but no one is there to take photos of Carnarvon family photos. We’re there to see the most important character in a beloved show. We’ve visited a number of castles that are still family homes (Alnwick, Blenheim, Belvoir, etc.) and were permitted to take pictures inside. To each their own. We ordered a picnic tea box when purchasing our tickets and thoroughly enjoyed everything inside it. The sandwiches, scones and sweet treats were all fantastic. It was £75 for a box for 2 people. A little more than we would normally pay for something like that, but it also came with two free hot drinks and a small bottle of champagne. The grounds are also beautiful and there is a lot to explore beyond the house. Overall, highly recommend visiting if you’re a Downton Abbey fan.
Mariana Miller — Google review
As a Downtown Abbey fan this was great. The gardens are beautiful and you could spend hours walking around them. The house is very impressive but be prepared to lock the experience in your head because photography inside the house is not allowed unfortunately. But as the house is actually lived in and not a museum, this is understandable.
Greg C — Google review
We had a wonderful time in Highclere Castle recently. The whole building was magical. Lady Carnarvon welcomed us and did a very nice speech before we started our tour inside the castle. Unfortunately we weren't able to take any pictures inside. Our tour guide Greg, was very entertaining and informative. But all the other staff were very warm and friendly. The afternoon tea was very delicious and we were spoiled by the lovely waiters. The gift shop has plenty of choice and the free books were signed by Lady Carnarvon. The only one thing that was a bit disappointing, that is the ladies lavatory. They definitely need a little bit of improvement. Otherwise we did enjoy every minute of the tour and we will definitely come back. Highly recommended!
Charlotte Kovacs — Google review
Awsome experience! The gardens are beautiful, a lovely walk around the grounds. The house is a work of art, if you love Downton Abbey, then this is a must for your Bucket List 😊 You have to pre-book to enter the house.
Andrew Palmer — Google review
Such a beautiful place and great for fans of Downton Abbey. We were greeted by the Lady Carnarvon and had our photo taken in front of the grand Christmas tree. We were offered tea and coffee followed by a tour of the castle. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and clearly had a good relationship with the family. We got to visit the Egyptian collection and lastly had afternoon tea, which Lady Carnarvon came to join us for. All in all, an absolutely fantastic experience that I can't wait to do again! No photos are allowed inside the castle.
Coralie Pattenden — Google review
Went for their Egyptian exhibition event to celebrate 100 years since the family discovered Tutankhamen's tomb. The house is stunning and if you're a Downton abbey fan there is a lot to look at (no photos allowed in the house due to insurance). The grounds and gardens are stunning and vast. Lots to walk around in a nice day. They offer a events during the year which are incredible and good fun to dress up. There is a lot of history and interesting things to observe. Would definitely return and watch the show now
Izzy Creative247 — Google review

Top places to eat

4.6
(732)
4.5
(1696)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Modern French restaurant
The beautifully decorated, white-tablecloth restaurant L'Ortolan is the perfect place to enjoy a Michelin-starred French meal. Chef Tom Clarke has created a modern menu with seasonal, local produce at its heart, and everything on offer is perfect for all dietary requirements.
Had a great night here with friends. Service was warm, unpretentious, and extremely professional. Chef's menu + wine pairings were interesting and delicious!
Jenna Whitnall — Google review
Just had an amazing 5-star experience. The food was top quality. What made it an experience was the chefs table. We sat in full view of the kitchen, watching ours and other guests' food being prepared. Seeing how a professional kitchen works. The chef dressed our lunch on the pass and came round to tell us all about the course, not just what we were about to eat but what was in it, where the ingredients were soursed and what flavours to expect.
Derek Baker — Google review
We had a lovely family birthday celebration here. Food was so interesting and our teenage kids experienced something very different to what they normally eat. The 8 course tasting menu took 3 hours to get through, and level of service wasn't too overbearing as can be in top end restaurants. Classic flight of wines 2 of us enjoyed, and learnt about new wines as they were introduced. 1 star dropped as after already opting for flight of wine and truffle course supplement, was then offered a wine at extra cost to go with the truffle course; that felt like too many upsells! Overall though, would recommend as not just a lunch but a lovely way to spend time with family chatting and trying new flavours
Geoff Roy — Google review
Absolutely amazing day doing Chefs experience - the team were all really welcoming, chuffed to get hands on in the kitchen - come away with a few new skills. Food was absolutely phenomenal - looking forward to coming back. Thank you.
Paul Wright — Google review
Went on a weekday in Mar and the restaurant is not full so I won’t expect the service is like such. After sharing with few a friends and found we all have similar experience which I didn’t see in any review at all so prompt me leaving one here for a honest feedback as I do wish Reading to have a great fine dining experience. Food 3/5 - brilliant appetiser and dessert, the two main dishes - pork and fish are ok, not exciting - a gastropub standard. However, how we are being treated is something I won’t recommend and no surprise they don’t maintain their M star. A plate is presented as table setting and once you seated the waitress would immediately pull it away and that’s set the tone of the pacing in this fine dining restaurants. Amuse-bouche came and it looks great, however one of them are made of mini tartelette which is quite oily on the surface hence I requested a fork. She was amazed in her response and ask ‘ a fork?’ Yes I would like to have a fork. She then followed up questioning with ‘You need a fork with Amuse-Bouche???’ LOL right? I am glad I had get what a asked for but the attitude was a surprise. Then come with appetiser and bread (the bread n butter is heaven) however when we presented with so many dishes at the same time we found it we are rushing everything and didn’t pay full respect to it as it’s been cold down / warm up so we asked the waitress if we could pace a bit slower to the coming dishes as we are not in hurry - how could you imagine you have to request this in a fine dining place but again another blunt response are given “oh we cannot, the dishes are ready so we have to bring to serve” - we were like , excuse me - shall you go to give a headsup to the chef and reflect that so he would adjust the pacing? Don’t wanna repeat and make it lengthy review but I could just tell by all the engagement we had with the waitress - we didn’t feel like being very welcome or up to a fine dining experience expectation. For a mid week menu - it’s great ROI however they lost the chance to make me a loyal one and giving me & my other group of friends similar experience on a different day, not in our recommendation simply due to the services we experience.
w cheung — Google review
Came here for a 8 course tasting menu from a gift voucher. Overall the food was excellent but a few unusual menu items (such a Gorgonzola butter milk ice cream dessert). Good selection on both the meat and vegetarian tasting menu. Service for all 8 courses took 3 hours but could have been served faster and not all courses were bought out hot.. unsure if this was intentional or not. At the end of our service we were bought a bill for the service charge, I understand this wasn’t included by the gift voucher but seemed very unprofessional to add 12.5% to a gifted meal.
Rhianna — Google review
It was wonderful that they accommodated us after our voucher had expired a long time ago. Thank you for that. We had the tasting menu. The waiting staff were obviously trained to a very 'old fashioned' standard which made them seem quite aloof but they did loosen up as the meal went on which was good. The food was very good but not amazing. Drinks very expensive, 2 small aperitifs, 2 coffees and the service charge came to £65.00.
Susan Knight — Google review
Absolutely fantastic meal and service! One can tell that they care about how they do their jobs. Fantastic evening!
Michael Conde — Google review
Had the chefs table experience, and it was incredible. The food was sublime and the attention to detail was second to none. Everything tasted and looked amazing, including the cocktails. Would recommend the passion fruit martini if you have a sweet tooth! Couldn't fault the experience at all, a great birthday present or anniversary gift if you're looking to do something more special
Guy James — Google review
We went for The Chef’s Table experience - a 7 courses lunch which was absolutely delicious! We were sitting literally in front of the kitchen watching the chefs cooking and sending the plates. Every single course was more and more tasty, big applause especially for the carpaccio, the cod & the lamb! The service was amazing, the whole team was very friendly & polite. 👏🏻 to the Chefs! Will definitely be back!
Lucile Philippe C. — Google review
My husband took me here for birthday dinner! Great foods, drinks and atmosphere. Nicely displayed dishes with special and fresh ingredients! Good selection of cocktails as well. Great place for occasions and family gatherings
Sheila G — Google review
Excellent Chef table experience. It is not only food and drink. Gettign to talk to the staff was an amazing experience. The food was delicious. I opted for a diary and meat free menu. Every dish was amazing. Every bite was full of flavour. In terms of drinks, I normally only drink water with lunch. This time, I went for the mocktail pairing. I loved all of them, sugar free, creative and full of new flavours.
Amaia Lesta Sobrino — Google review
Loved the experience Pros + Well crafted menu + balanced tasting dishes + vegetarian menu available + courteous staff + green surroundings which add to positive feel Opportunity areas - given the menu and the weather we missed soup (we had vegetarian). Though that's the restaurants prerogative to design the menu, just sharing the idea.
Amit Jain — Google review
Visited L'Ortolan as a birthday treat. First of all, the food was amazing. We started off with pre-dinner cocktails and it was easily one of the most flavourful cocktails I've ever had. We went for the 6 course tasting menu with the wine pairing alongside it. From the canapes to the dessert, each dish was brilliantly crafted and left you wanting more. The wine pairings too were excellent, particularly impressed with the wine pairing for the cod dish wherein the the savouriness of the dish really brought out the fruitiness of an otherwise quite tannin heavy wine. The level of service was fantastic. The staff made sure you were looked after, such as ensuring glasses were topped up and that we enjoyed the dishes, but not in an intrusive way. Explanations of each dish and of the wine pairings were great. They even made sure to provide a special touch on the dessert for my birthday (see picture). The atmosphere of the restaurant was good, however nothing outstanding with some of the decor feeling slightly subdued; although you could argue that this enabled the good to stand out even more. Overall, it was a great experience and one that I would highly recommend.
Tommy Snipe — Google review
The place of the high standards of everything. The interior, together with professional servants, provides a sweet anticipation of the upcoming experience of art coming straight from the cuisine of unique tastes.
Maksim Klania — Google review
My husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary with a wonderful dinner at L'Ortolan. Everything was exceptional and as expected with fine dining. The food was delicious, we choose the 8 courses, with the wagu brevet which incurred a supplement but was to die for and well worth it. The ambience and staff are absolutely on point and everyone is friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable on the food and wine pairings. If you want to celebrate a special occasion this is the place to visit. Cannot recommend highly enough and looking forward to our next visit.
Shirleyann Johnson — Google review
Church Ln, Shinfield, Reading RG2 9BY, United Kingdomhttps://lortolan.com/+44 118 988 8500L'Ortolan reservations

2The Fat Duck

4.7
(1268)
4.5
(2292)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Fine dining restaurant
The Fat Duck is a restaurant with 3 Michelin stars that offers an interesting food adventure. The dishes are based on experimental ingredients and techniques, making it a unique experience. Rather than just eating a meal, this is an opportunity to indulge all your senses.
Amazing food and fantastic service nestled away on the high street of a small English country town. Food was spectacular and the Curiosity wine pairing was very interesting. We shared a wine pairing which worked quite well (partly because they are free-pours so you probably get a bit more, but mainly because otherwise that’s an atrocious amount of wine!!!). Will come again in a few years - can’t afford to come sooner!!!
Ben Giles — Google review
There are not enough feelings to describe how wonderful the anthology meal at the Fat Duck was. Art meets Magic meets whimsy. Every dish was better than the previous dish. The taste buds were taken on a sensory tour. The meal got super modern and then turned traditional which is a perfect balance. Every element of every plate made sense. EAT HERE, EAT HERE, this place is just simply and absolutely amazing.
Office Manager — Google review
If your only consideration is the price then you are missing the point. Its not just about the food which is excellent, its not just about the service which is exceptional. This is about the experience. It lasts about 4 hours and they take you on a journey to discover how your senses can enhance your experience. It's one of the best meals I have ever had. If you only treat yourself on a special occasion then this is the place to do it. cant recommend this enough. Don't hesitate get booked and be good to yourself.
Joe Kuzsel — Google review
So much fun! I had previously been here twice, but over 10 years ago. Went here again recently and absolutely loved it. We went for their Christmas menu, the food was tasty, fun and overall just a great experience. Pros: *Service was exceptional throughout the dining experience, someone on our table sneezed and they brought them a new napkin. *Advent calendar menu was fun and very fitting *Majority of the dishes were great, the standout for me was the prawn cocktail that came in the form of a cocktail as well as a dish *The theatrics such as the dried ice, Christmas tree on the table and doing the finishing touches of various dishes at the table Cons: *There aren’t any really… obviously given it’s a 3 star restaurant, it’s going to be expensive. But I’d say it’s well worth it and I’d love to go again.
Jason W — Google review
The fat duck is not a restaurant, it's an experience. The staff are exceptional, as is the food. Taking advantage of all of your senses. We booked the restaurant for my mother's 60th after trying to get in for years. It definitely lived up to and exceeded expectations. And the heated toilet seats are wonderful too!
Natalie Broad — Google review
Wow, wow, wow! Honestly the best dining experience of my life! From the second you walk through the quaint little door, you're truly in for the experience of a lifetime. The staff were so friendly, yes all of them! Nothing was too much trouble and the way they explained each course, following along with the story telling, was an integral part of the experience. Even the kitchen staff were the best when I got to take a peak at the end of the night. They kindly posed for a photo with me too! The food was on another level, 11 courses of wonderment. The way Heston (and his chefs) take you on a journey is just magical. From aerated beetroot to set your taste buds alight, to the sound of the sea taking you straight to the beach, all the way to the sweet shop to finish your experience. Each and every step was perfect in every way. The premises were beautiful, of course, and I need the toilet in my life! Now the question is, would I go back? Absolutely I would, but it would need to be a different menu/experience. Only because I wouldn't want to ruin the memory of this one, which was so special to me.
Claire Parker — Google review
We had an incredible experience over a year ago, visiting for one of their anthology menus. The food was utterly insane! So many complex flavours and perfectly balanced dishes. Honestly the best meal we'd ever had!
Duo — Google review
I don't have the vocabulary to properly explain how good the service, food, and drinks pairings were, and in fact I feel utterly privileged to have been able to spend a few hours here. If you have the opportunity, do it. (Those with negative reviews are being very unfair in my opinion, boosting their own ego). I should also add that Josh looked after us really well, specially with his coffee facts about SL-28
Phil Meyers — Google review
Celebrating our wedding anniversary, we went into Fat Duck aware of all the hype and accolades, but somehow came out of it even more impressed and in awe. The Fat Duck is, as many put it, more of an experience than a meal. As the hosts explained, Heston Blumenthal aims to challenge everything we know about food, and implements nature and all of our senses to enhance our culinary experience. From the moment you sit down, the performance entertains, astonishes, and even at times befuddles with its emphasis on sensory-oriented exploration. The food is obviously impressive, but the unique experiences like the Sound of the Sea (headphones with your seafood thay somehow make it taste more...seafood-y?) and the Cheese and Grapes (not exactly cheese, and the grapes have a bit of a surprise!) will stay with us. The quail was fantastic, and the langoustine lasagne was incredible. There is no weak link in the tasting menu, as everything served a purpose. There's so much more that can be said, such as the incredible service (seriously, you are treated like royalty here), the wine "cellar," the perfect wine and non-alcoholic pairings (would obviously recommend them both), and of course the candy house that curated post-meal treats for us based on our preferences. It is absolutely no surprise that the Fat Duck has topped the list of the World's Best Restaurants and boasts 3 Michelin Stars, but it is even more amazing in person. Genuinely an experience of a lifetime!
Andrew Liu — Google review
I’ve contemplated what to write here for some time, and concluded that nothing can really do the experience justice. Storytelling accompanied by food, games, and trickery. Heston must be some sort of brilliant madman to be able to come up with this. Is cheese really cheese? Can light and sound rob a beverage of sweetness? Ever seen a cocktail be throw into a pool of -196 Celsius death? I was not expecting this, and I had never imagined food as this kind of spectacle. I was honestly growing a bit bored of the Michelin star experience, because it was starting to feel a bit uniform for me. The Fat Duck has reignited this fire, but perhaps set an impossibly high bar. I will be looking for different things from now on than I used to, that’s for sure. By the way, you leave with lots of souvenirs, so come prepared 😂
Matheus Queiroz — Google review
An incredible dining experience, easily one of the best I've ever enjoyed. The food is exceptional and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. A must-visit for any food enthusiast's bucket list.
Vee Bee — Google review
An absolutely incredible afternoon celebrating my Dad's 60th birthday! The food was (obviously) amazing. I was a little worried initially as my brother is a slightly fussy eater and I'd convinced him to spend a month's food budget on one meal he might not like but even he loved every bite! The intensity of flavours, the mix of ingredients and strange cooking methods made everyday ingredients seem magical!
Ben Collyer — Google review
This wasn't just a fabulous meal although it was that too, it was also an incredible culinary experience. The staff explained every course, it's concept and ingredients to make it all the more enjoyable. To top it all off we were invited to see the kitchen in full swing. Yes, it is expensive but even if you only go once in your lifetime you have to do it. Put a visit to The Fat Duck on your bucket list!
Brian Davies — Google review
Magical food and highly attentive service. Food theatre at its finest - some of the menu brought out the best memories of childhood. The level of detail and depth to some of the dishes was incredible. Cheese and grapes was my personal favourite. We paired with the non-alcoholic beverages which were fun.
Jen Tipper — Google review
It is nice but not as good as you would expect. They try to dazzle you with the technique but to be honest the Waterside Inn in Bray is superior in every way. It is still an enjoyable experience but not worth what is being charged. But the wine pairings didn't work and the food was tart in most cases. It may have been bleeding edge in the past but many have caught up with the techniques. There isn't the wow factor anymore which is a shame as I have always wanted to visit the Fat Duck and experience the performance. Maybe a one Michelin Star. Check out the other reviews that are not 5 star they will provide a more realistic review similar to what I experienced.
tim ng — Google review
Well! What a place! I’ve been fortunate enough to dine in some exceptional restaurants around the world and nothing about The Fat Duck was like anything I’d experienced before. The menu “Sensorium” genuinely provided unique dish after dish and tastes that were a whole new experience. I won’t talk about the menu or individual plates because that should be a personal experience and one that guests should make their own judgment on but I will say we thoroughly enjoyed them all. The wine pairing was very well selected with some Japanese influence. Dishes are served with tricks & surprises and quite often not what they first seem. The service was exceptional, perfectly timed and never too overbearing. Just enough time between plates and never left wondering when the next would arrive. We will go back when there a new menu. One of the best restaurants you’ll ever eat at. Spoiler/heads up. Two guests should be prepared to spend over £1000 if paired with even the standard wine pairing.
The K D — Google review
It physically pains me to write this after years of looking forward to dining at the fat duck but I have to say it: DO NOT GO. Save your money. Let's get a few things out of the way - the service is exceptional. More than exceptional. Everyone from the waiters to the sommeliers to generally everyone that had something to do with our experience was professional, had a smile on their face, seemed super enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Let's also give a shout out to the fanciest toilet I have ever had the pleasure to use with pre heated seat, self cleaning and all of the bells and whistles. The atmosphere itself is a bit dingy. The room is tiny and has no decorations at all which is supposed to add to your imagination but just feels a bit cold and grey. All of this is nice, and let's face it if you're paying £1300 for two people you expect the service to be exceptional and the toilets to be instagram worthy, however, the food just did not live up to expectations. Worse, apart from not living up to expectations most of it was outright bad. It's a shame because some of the gimmicks really got me and I enjoyed them. For example the take on a smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich in the morning - Heston takes this and transforms it into cereal. Yes, you receive your own little cereal box with a game and a little trinket and it is absolutely adorable and made me smile. However, eating the actual dish was absolutely underwhelming and needed salt, pepper, and allll the seasonings. There were dishes that were not just in need of a heavier hand at the seasoning but that were inedible. The worst one was a take on prawn cocktails which ended up being more like a langustine lasagne which we had to send back after one bite. It is unfortunate that the best things we ate were the two bread courses, one with bought in butter which was delicious, the other one with a magically made little apple that turns into a flavourful pate. The only other outstanding things to mention were a perfectly cooked venison, which, you know, you can get in a lot of places for a lot less money, and a spelt risotto which, again, is one of the cheapest ingredients but was at least warming and delicious. The rest of the courses were simply not good. Not just not good enough for the price but not good, you would not eat them if you'd got them served in a Wetherspoons. I also felt that the story of "a day at christmas" got quite lost after the first 3 courses. Yes, the cocktail that reminds you of a cold winter morning going for a walk worked (the accompanying jerusalem artichoke dish was not terrible as a pallet cleanser) and then the salmon turned cereal course made sense as that's how christmas mornings go. Then we loose ourselves in two fish courses, the inedible prawn cocktail and a decent enough scallop dish, which don't really fit in the description of a christmas day. The venison sort of ties it back with christmas dinner but then the desserts are in the wrong order with the mince pies coming before the sweet things. Let me talk about the sweet things for a minute. There is a dish that takes 30 people to make which is a shame because I'm sure these people are very skilled but the dish itself tastes of almost nothing, just a random bit of sweet and sour and some popping candy. It is not worth the effort it takes to make. The fat duck also falls into some traps of fine dining that I just hate. Why are you charging me £14 for a hawkstone beer? Or £24 for a negroni? I already spend so much money on the food, just have normal prices for these things. No one wants to pay £8 for a can of red bull. Another fine dining staple was the gold leaf. It came in the shape of a golden carrot which was shaken up in water and turned into bovril with gold flakes in it. It was annoying and probably quite expensive and labour intense and tasted awful. The whole thing was just not for me. And I feel terrible about that. But the food just is not good.
Adina Kuse — Google review
One of a kind! If you are looking to have a unique experience then I couldn’t recommend more. Let me start with how amazing the staff are and extremely knowledgeable about the food and customers! Accidentally swapped my pocket cash money with my partner to spend at the sweet shop and they new those sweets weren’t mine! The food, the different textures the combination of flavours and the way the food is presented was unreal. I recommend paring with the wine tasting to elevate the experience! It’s worth every penny. My favourites dish was the sounds of the sea. It brought me wonderful memories of where I grew up as a child. But every single course was unique and delicious. Thank you to all the staff, would have been amazing to see Heston!
Nanci — Google review
Not only is this hands down the best restaurant that I have ever visited, but it's right up there with one of the best evenings I've ever had. I can not recommend the Fat Duck more. From arriving; to being offered help with booking a taxi when leaving, the service is superb. We have never had such comfortable and personal service without a hint of pretence. Everyone in the Fat Duck clearly love their job and are all there to make sure that all guests have an amazing evening. Josh in particular was great and spent a lot of time with us. The food is great and very thought-provoking. Exactly what you would expect from Heston and his scientific approach to gastronomy. This is the first michelin restaurant that I have left, thinking about when I can return next. Everyone who loves food should experience this place.
Alex Jones — Google review
Had the taster of the tasting menu. The concept is interesting but nothing impressed me to be honest. I don’t want to be too harsh, but they got our dessert choice wrong twice 😅.
Ningqian Yang — Google review
We had been looking forward to our visit here for some time… and it was well worth the wait. From upon entering, being greeted so warmly and friendly set the scene. Very dedicated staff which make the experience all the more enjoyable. Your senses are alive! And of course, the food is not only cooked amazingly well.. but it’s also dece deceptive and fun. Heston and his team don’t disappoint. Highly recommended a visit. We will be back!
Simon T massimini — Google review
Our Christmas dinner was magical, delicious and full of surprises. Staff enthusiastically presented each course. It's easy to question the price tag before you've dined in a three star, but this is not a meal, it's an experience. A presentation of skilled excellence, storytelling and minute details. There wasn't anything we disliked, but the Umbles was my favourite. We were pleasantly surprised how thoughtful the non-alcoholic drink pairings were. The craftsmanship was almost unbelievable, and at the end of dessert, our server informed me that the gold coil I left on my plate was edible. It was a really fun and whimsical Christmas dinner, I wouldn't change a thing. Except maybe a higher ceiling haha.
Kelsey Wood — Google review
A truely magical evening. The creative playfulness of art, science and psychology around food made this a one of a kind experience that we had looked forward to for years. The evening did not disappoint. From the Sound of the Sea bringing a tear to my eyes to the Picnic Summer Strawberry making me feel like a kid again with the wonderment of what the world can unveil. Service was top notch and the evening was just truely amazing.
Dean Tuck — Google review
We had been looking forward to visiting The Fat Duck for a while, being our first 3* Michelin and it did not disappoint! While the food was delicious, the service we received from the staff was top notch. Danny, our storyteller was fun and knowledgable and made the experience unforgettable! He made us laugh and we shared jokes which I found incredibly refreshing for a fine dining establishment! One of the managers, Ayesha, went above and beyond to make our visit worthwhile and we felt really cared and catered for. Konstantinos, our sommelier, was so knowledgable and helped convince us to get drink pairings. When I felt I had drank enough he offered me half glasses with a non-alcoholic option too - which was so appreciated! Finally, Sejal who showed us the secret cellar and the wine experience was so welcoming! Onto the food, every dish was unique and unexpected from a frozen cocktail to the mock turtle soup. Some made you think and took you back to the past! What really impressed me is they made every effort to ensure my vegetarian dishes were comparable to the meat dishes. Usually when I dine in these establishments I’m used to getting a completely different dish which means I feel left out. The roasted scallop alternative being aubergine was taste and texturally an exact match to the scallop! My friend actually preferred the aubergine! The whole experience was unforgettable! To be honest there were some dishes I didn’t enjoy as much as I wanted. I would definitely inform them of any dislikes prior, as I am not a fan of a chocolate dessert and all 3 desserts were rich and chocolate based. The bread and butter course seemed unlimited but was certainly not the best I’ve had and was very simple compared to the complexities of the other dishes. That said, the meal was a once in a lifetime experience! Other than this, my only slight gripe was that one dish lacked seasoning. When I let the servers know they were more than happy to offer me an extra chocolate dessert but I’d prefer a savoury dish. I did ask for something different but they could only offer me a dish I had already had. So I asked for the roasted aubergine again which they were able to add sorrel and artichoke to - this was delicious! They were however able to offer my friend an entirely new dish so that I wouldn’t eat alone. If they were able to offer my friend a new pork dish, I expect to also be offered a new dish, not one that I’d already had. We both got drinks pairings, I personally loved the adventure as it was a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic and the latter were so different, experimental and tasty! I would return for the food but especially for the incredible service we received!
Maya Chauhan — Google review
High St, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2AQ, United Kingdomhttp://www.thefatduck.co.uk/+44 1628 580333

3The Hinds Head

4.6
(1054)
4.0
(2323)
Mentioned on 
expensive
British restaurant
The Hind's Head is a British gastropub with traditional decor and standout English dishes with a twist designed by Heston. The restaurant is slightly more accessible than the neighbouring Fat Duck, and offers quality food that you would expect from Heston.
My overall expectations for food in the UK are a bit low so this is nice, but nothing that special given the Michelin star. Friendly staff and generally reasonable food, but unless you're interested in some specific items here there are many cheaper or more interesting alternative places. Not the same level as The Fat Duck across the road, but pretty reasonable "pub" food. It is a bit pricey for what it is, and I found the starters a bit disappointing. Also overall food was slightly saltier than expected, but I think this is a personal taste issue and the scotch egg and desserts made up for an overall positive experience. Highly recommend the desserts (rhubarb trifle for something a bit tart and chocolate wine slush for a not so sweet, slightly bitter dessert). Also the "something to begin" items seem nice. The starters were a bit too salty (would have preferred less salt and salt on table) or boring and the mains were OK (mine was bit cold). Dinner by Heston (or ultimately The Fat Duck) is a better overall choice if you're interested in a more funky gastronomic experience. Especially as they do not have the tasty mushroom ketchup here for the triple cooked chips. However I'd say the nibbles and desserts here were better than Dinner.
Roy S — Google review
Lovely restaurant so full of character. Waiting staff were excellent. We were given 4 course meal gift as red letter day but they made you feel no different to if you were paying yourself. So polite and friendly and welcoming. Very attentive without being too attentive. Knew the menu well and could explain the dishes perfectly without having to check everything. Perfect with allergens knew exactly what was in each dish without having to check with chef and excellent alternatives provided. A lovely little touch with a happy anniversary board. Would 100% recommend this restaurant. It was a lovely memorable special Occasion and everything was top quality with super knowledgeable pleasant, friendly and welcoming staff - thank you
Janine Rooney — Google review
The food was amazing. We were a table of 7 for a birthday and we ordered Scotch egg , steak, fish and chips and mushroom parfait which was perfection. But service is lacking for a Michelin star restaurant. Clumsy serving and clearing of plates , table was wobbling, had to ask for menus. It felt a bit unprofessional.Overall , the food is definitely worth coming for but more can be done to make it feel special from the staff.
M La — Google review
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening at Hinds Head. We had been around 7 or 8 years ago and loved it then. We were curious whether anything had changed or if the high standards back then had carried forward. We were not disappointed in what we discovered. Everything was, and still is, top notch. From the welcome at the door to the last friendly goodbye, everything was superb. The food was outstanding. I could not resist getting the pea soup (I had it on my last trip and had been thinking about it ever since) and it was every bit as delicious as I remembered. If you have nothing else besides that and their triple cooked chips (literally the best outside of Belgium) - you will leave completely satisfied. Thanks for another memorable night! We look forward to the next and will be sure it is not another 8 years before returning.
MGD (WorldIsWaiting) — Google review
Shared a fantastic meal with my other half. Service was great, atmosphere was very relaxed. Good selection of beers on tap. The food was amazing as to be expected. Highlight for each of us were the guinea fowl and the chocolate red wine slush with millionaire shortbread (The steak with bone marrow sauce was a close contender though).
ross watson — Google review
Had a fantastic meal here and was definitely worth it. The menu has a wide range of items so there is something for everyone. It's on the pricer side of a meal so expect to pay for the quality of food you get however it was certainly worth it. The scotch egg was by far the tasty so do try it. Great cuts of meat and perfectly cooked. I do agree with other reviews that the triple cooked chips were disappointing, a few of them were impossible to even put a fork through as they were so "crispy" on the outside. The staff were excellent and very attentive despite it being very busy. The quality of service is 5 star for sure. The atmosphere was good as it was busy but its very much a traditional pub when you walk in and the atmosphere reflects that as does the seating, benches and table. Will happily return when looking for top service and excellent food again.
Justin Mann — Google review
Total excellent dining experience. Probably the best fish n chips I've had. The quail scotch egg was a perfect starter. Rhubarb dessert was superb. Service first class. Definitely recommend for a special occasion.
Ian Sanderson — Google review
Visiting The Hinds Head for the first time , there is a level of expectation being a Michelin Star rated restaurant… wow absolutely amazing food , service and ambiance. Since moving to the UK , this is the best food experience I have had . Thank you I will see you soon for some more of this amazing hospitality and cuisine!
Claude Schuck — Google review
We came here for our 1 year anniversary meal, and it did not disappoint, I had the ribeye steak which was cooked perfectly and served with triple cooked chips, and my significant other had the fish and chips which she absolutely loved including the chippy dip which was just a touch of nostalgia of eating soggy vinegary chips from an actual chippy. To finish off the team served us this nice little board to mark out our anniversary. Loved it and already planning on returning!
Rajpal Suri — Google review
We had a voucher given to us and had a set menu with 2 options per course - we liked all of them, First time here and we really enjoyed all of our meal, The staff were very attentive and friendly. Refreshing change to have really good service and really good quality food. The village of Bray is very pretty and we loved the traditional interior of the pub. We will come back here again.
Alss 01 — Google review
Fantastic Michelin starred gastropub in Bray. Stones throw away from Heston's Fat Duck. You can actually just come here and have a drink - which is fantastic! Limited selection of what's on Tap; but decent. The bar snacks are amazing... had Scotch egg, sausage rolls and triple cooked chips. DELIGHTFUL! service was great - nice guy called Massimo. Would definitely come back! RECOMMEND.
Tarun Yadav — Google review
My family and I visited The Hinds Head for a roast dinner on Mother’s Day and we were truly blown away. We opted for the 3 course menu but also ordered additional extras for starters as we were curious to try the wider menu as it was our first visit. We all mentioned that we admired the portion control throughout, as we were able to enjoy each course from start to finish without feeling like we over-ordered, left anything to waste on our plate or left feeling hungry! Each meal clearly is carefully curated, with the waiting staff being able to explain any queries of allergens or flavours etc. From bar, to waiting staff, we were taken care of. The Michelin Star is clearly deserved.
Shannon — Google review
Absolutely phenomenal - the dishes are traditional English but elevated in true Heston style. It’s just tasty food in great combinations and we really enjoyed our delicious meal. We had the crab with scones, and mushroom parfait for ‘snacks’, which were unusual and delicious. We shared the salmon starter, it was nice but nothing special. We both had the halibut for mains and it was truly amazing - soft flaky fish, wild garlic purée and we had the yummiest buttered cabbage with it! Was fab. Desserts were (surprisingly) less impressive but still better than most places you’d visit. Overall a truly memorable meal, we’d love to go back.
Sonal Davda — Google review
We got two fish and chips and we got two pieces of high quality fresh fish, tasty chips and a set of house made sauces with fresh tasting ingredients. Nice and welcoming people and a relaxing atmosphere. Was a bit on the pricey side though. £28 per fish and chips meal, but possibly that's what you must pay for a decent quality food these days
B RR — Google review
Superb food. Last time I visited in 2008? I had the oxtail pudding and I was thrilled to see it still on the menu. So fantastically rich and tasty that the lack of green veg wasn't an issue. Magnificent scotch egg to start. The welcome could have been a little more enthusiastic but otherwise the service was superb. Thank you 👍
Ian Hinckley — Google review
I came here for a spontaneous lunch on a Friday. I had a quail scotch egg as a starter, the trout for main and pineapple cheesecake for dessert. They were all executed to near perfection and very tasty. The pub was gorgeous. The best part of the meal however was the service - friendly, attentive and very helpful. Bray village is gorgeous. It’s worth a little wander down the lane to the church right next to the restaurant.
G C — Google review
The cozy ambiance complemented the very flavorful dishes. The staff were very attentive, adding to the overall enjoyment of the evening. I'll definitely be returning soon for more culinary delights
franklin b — Google review
I'm often on the fence when it comes to Michelin restaurants. On the face of it, the food should be amazing, and leave you with a sense of indulgence. Instead, you leave hungry, with a heavy dent on your credit card. I'm not sure what the attraction to these types of restaurants are. Maybe we're all too pompous to know when we're being fooled. Our portions were ridiculously small. The crab sandwich and broth was quite literally half a slice of toast with crab paste, and, no kidding, an espresso cup half filled with over salted soup, that tasted like brine. The steak pudding was so heavily salted (they call it rich) that I couldn't eat it, which was a shame because I was starving. I'm sure loads of people will see this review and think "but it's Heston Blumenthal. It's supposed to be rich, tiny portions that cost a fortune. That's how we keep the regular people out." To them I say, yes, you are right, and you are welcome to it. Top tip...eat before you go.
John Craig — Google review
After a wonderful diner at the Fat Duck the night before we wanted a nice Sunday Roast after walking 18kms. This pub does have a Michelin star and the food and service show that, however it still feels like a pub. And that is great!
Patrick Hennen — Google review
The food was absolutely amazing, we had a 4 course set menu, with 2 options per course. Being 2 people we managed to try all the food and it was all so good. Even the house wine was amazing! The ingredients were extremely fresh and that was reflected in the taste. We were also given complimentary fresh bread with butter and a couple of cherry and chocolate "balls" after dessert. We had a voucher from Buy a Gift and for the 2 was 160£ (without tip), for the 4 courses and a glass of wine each, a lot less than I expected for a Michelin star place. Staff and atmosphere were nice too. Recommend 100%!
Diana-Oana Cristea-Vint — Google review
I really rate the hinds head, food was amazing (a tad salty), ambience was good and staff were attentive. I loved the quirky nature of the food and fun touches. The pea and ham soup, macha trifle and the legendary triple cooked chips. I've been yo loads of starred restaurants and for me on value beats the hand and flowers which is over priced.
Midland canary — Google review
We went with high expectations and unfortunately had a pretty average experience for food. Snacks were the highlight, though the scotch egg wasnt as good as the ham croquettes. We've had much better chips at the old bell in Wooburn. Pork belly again pretty average, with a nice pearl barley risotto. Warm chocolate pudding was nice but couldn't make up for the rest. Service was exemplary.
Aman Singh — Google review
A beautiful pub set in a charming surrounding. The food and service was excellent. Not cheap, but quality never is. I highly recommend a visit
Rory Morris — Google review
Fish and chips - the best fish and chips I have had ever period! Four of us a fantastic lunch at Hinds head and as I said earlier fish and chips are definitely the stand out. Crab soup and scotch egg were really good. Rest of the dishes were good but not great.Definitely need reservation and I recommend it. Will be back in some time.
Thomas Kappen — Google review
High St, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2AB, United Kingdomhttp://www.hindsheadbray.com/+44 1628 626151
4.5
(1137)
4.5
(2101)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Brasserie
The London Street Brasserie is a Grade 1 listed restaurant that specialises in British and French cuisine. The food is elegantly presented and the prices reflect the quality of the dishes. The wine list is extensive and affordable, making it a good choice for budget-minded eaters.
Fantastic independent restaurant on the Riverside. A nice alternative to all the chain restaurants it's so close to. They make everything in house from sauce to fudge and ice cream. The decor is a little dated but it feels warm and homely. Food was excellent, fresh and hot. They have a nice range of cuisines on the menu and the dessert choice is better than most so, save room!
W S — Google review
Well presented plates and good flavours. The staff were friendly and served the tables well. A nice place to spend some time of an evening. In the summer even better eating outside by the river. 2 split level dining area and comfortable pleasant surroundings. The Chardonnay was delicious too.
slurp tea — Google review
My favourite restaurant on this planet. Every item on that menu is world class - flavour, looks, price isn't too bad either. I would highly recommend the scallops for starters, steak for mains, and pannacotta for dessert. But everything else will be good as well. Great service too.
gaurav kamath — Google review
An evening out for dinner when visiting Reading. The restaurant was packed on a Friday night but with a friendly service. The food was good and we ordered steak with lobster, deer meat, scallops, and salmon as a side dish, with cider and browny with ice cream. All were delicious.
Jeremy Wan — Google review
The London Street Brasserie always offers high quality interesting food. It was extremely busy on Bank holiday Monday and the experience was not as good as previous visits. Staff were not very interested in us, and we were in and out of the restaurant very quickly, without anyone really noticing.
Julie Barclay-Clark — Google review
On my way to a lunch bowl of ramen, I spotted a menu which hooked me right away with the words ‘Cornish Cuttlefish’ I was in the mood for some calves liver too so popped in and was seated right away on a lovely patio balcony overlooking the river. The salad did not disappoint, not chewy seafood, citrusy watercress & green beans with diced fresh pineapple and some excellent tomatoes. The liver dish was absolutely perfectly cooked, the bacon and roast shallots in a pool of excellent demi which I scraped up with my fork to avoid licking the plate! I left the random pea shoots and wished for more chopped parsley. Nice lemon tart & espresso to finish. Definitely coming back!
Gary Wise — Google review
We took advantage of the ‘Graduation Menu’ to enjoy delicious food. One of my favourite haunts in Berkshire. Should not be missed as a treat.
Almona Choudhury — Google review
The overall experience was great, we will come back again. The food was delicious and the staff was very helpful when choosing the wine and the food, offering the best gluten-free options in my case. Special mention and 5 stars to Andrea because her service was outstanding. This is a great place for dates and special occasions. Well done and very impressed!!
Johana García — Google review
My parents and I recently visited London Brasserie in Reading for a delightful Sunday roast, and our experience left us thoroughly impressed. Situated centrally, the restaurant boasts a prime location by the river, offering two floors of cozy dining space as well as outdoor seating. Opting for the fixed menu priced at just £29 excluding drinks, we were treated to a culinary journey with a variety of starters, including mussels, haggis, and chicken wings with honey. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, with the haggis standing out as a surprising favorite. For the main course, we indulged in two servings of pork roast and one of roast beef. The pork was impeccably cooked, tender and juicy with perfectly crispy crackling, while the beef, although slightly firmer, was complemented wonderfully by the rich gravy and sauce. Accompanied by a medley of roast vegetables, including potatoes, turnips, carrots, and cauliflower, every element of the meal was a perfect pairing. The staff at London Brasserie were incredibly welcoming and attentive, always on hand to ensure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. With the total bill coming to £131 for the food and three beers, we found the price to be reasonable considering the prime location, quality of food, and overall experience. London Brasserie in Reading certainly exceeded our expectations, and we look forward to returning.
Leonardo Lazzeri — Google review
the place reminds me of Jack Daniels Single Barrell, very nice, but it is a gamble if you are going to get good one, but if you get it is well spent money, That's the best cooked meat I've had in Reading and in fact they are the only one that know how to, but for some reason refuse to :) 5.02.2024 will be a day I would probably never forget, like the day I joined the army. Edit: now the new thing Heart & Soul (or something like that) - great idea, average execution...no idea what is that yogurt for (this is an insult to the actual yogurt btw, but even proper balkan yogurt has no place in that dish). Parsley great...but why soak it with vinegar and make something like half taboulleh..either put 100% taboulleh ( which will be actualy gerat) or dont.And last minor insignificant remark, if you do not have proper tool for the butter of the gods, at least serve with a some desert spoon. Thanks
Alex — Google review
An absolute gastronomic treat! My husband and I had lunch here for the first time on a short visit to Reading and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The setting by the river is charming, the decor is very elegant, the staff very welcoming and friendly. The food was unbelievable delicious! One of our best meals out ever! We will definitely return.
Jasmine Jade — Google review
A delightful celebration at the London Street Brasserie We recently visited the London Street Brasserie in Reading to celebrate my mother's exciting new job at the Jersey Zoo. We arrived ten minutes early, but this wasn't an issue at all. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, immediately setting the tone for a wonderful evening. To start, I indulged in the scallops, which were cooked to perfection. The flavors were delicate and perfectly balanced. For my main course, I opted for the very rare fillet steak, served with parmesan and truffle chips. The steak was cooked exactly as requested, juicy and tender on the inside with a beautifully seared crust. The truffle chips were a decadent addition, adding a touch of luxury to the dish. My partner enjoyed the chicken escalopes, which she described as flavorful and well-prepared. My mother also opted for the fillet steak, this time accompanied by roasted new potatoes. She was equally impressed with the quality and taste of her meal. The entire experience at the London Street Brasserie was exceptional. The staff were attentive and professional, ensuring our every need was met. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was truly delicious. It was the perfect setting to celebrate a special occasion, and we all left feeling happy and satisfied. I highly recommend the London Street Brasserie to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Reading. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, you're sure to have a wonderful time.
Martin Peters-Turner — Google review
Thank you so much Andrea and team for a truly lovely lunch. The service you and your team provided was excellent. We were on a tight schedule with a large group and you made everything run smoothly. Communication beforehand was very clear and friendly. Thanks so so much!!
Maxime Pieters — Google review
Not only was the food delicious, but also the staff working there was very friendly and helpful! They let me keep the bike in a safe space and everyone who came to serve us was lovely. Because I’ve celebrated my birthday I even got a surprise present! It was a very nice evening, so I recommend them 100%!
Iulian Turicianu — Google review
An absolutely stunning experience I had. Will definitely recommend to anyone in the area and will come back next time I visit Reading. Was a friends Birthday and the staff did a fabulous job at accommodating this!
Robyn Pierce — Google review
4.6
(1244)
4.0
(473)
Mentioned on 
Outdoor swimming pool
Bar
Located in a beautiful historical swimming pool complex, Thames Lido serves up some of the best Mediterranean food in London. With sustainability at the forefront of their menu, whole hog meats and seafood are delicious options. The pool is a lovely spot to relax after an energetic swim, and the restaurant's interior is a gorgeous sun trap.
Thames Lido located on Napier Road is a renovated and resurrected Edwardian outdoor swimming pool. The lido in Kings Meadow was derelict for years before being refurbished. I used to drive past it every week and think what if… The building itself has been refurbished extensively throughout. From the outside it looks much the same but inside … what a treat. The place is amazing. Go in through the door through and round to the left for the bar and seating for food. The pool takes centre stage with swimmers braving the cold or the sun to put a few lengths in, alternately chilling out in the hot tubs at the end. The facilities are excellent. Food on the day was a selection from the tapas menu (recommend the shredded white cabbage and the chorizo; don’t forget the flat breads). When you are inside it’s hard to imagine where you are, it literally transports you to a different place. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Relaxing with a nice vibe and energy I will definitely be going back. I recommend trying this place you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Parking is in its own private car park - you pay inside the venue the machine is located on the left on the way out. First 2 hours are free then reasonable rates.
Rory Cantellow — Google review
We ordered a good selection of tapas dishes, all delicious and enjoyed in a very relaxed setting quite unique to Reading. We had a really lovely meal and our waiter was great although overall service was a little slow. One star was lost on the ice cream, my salted caramel tasted nice but had a lot of large ice crystals throughout.
Eleanor Moore — Google review
Great facilities, clean and tidy. The swimming pool is gorgeous and in a beautiful setting. Dinner was great, food was tasteful and the location by the pool gives it a nice ambience. Perhaps the food is a little overpriced, but nonetheless a great dinner. Would definitely recommend the Swim&Dine package.
Federico Zambon — Google review
Lovely facilities, staff are professional and friendly. Would recommend getting a treatment and the bundle packages are great value for money. Some bits weren't open when we went but we still had a lovely time and enjoyed every bit!
Catherine Long — Google review
Just amazing! The wife and myself went for the swim/massage/meal package and I could recommend it enough. The swimming facilities are super clean and maintained very well. The massage, I went for Back, neck, shoulder and facial which was quite possibly the greatest massage I have ever had. Massive thank you to Lucy who was incredible. Dinner was just the icing on the cake! 3 tapas dishes plus sour dough bread which was plenty enough for myself. Ended with a delicious coffee. Book up asap! You won't be disappointed!
Jeevan Matharu — Google review
This is a nice place for a different kind of lunch. The food is quite fancy, but the whole feel very friendly and relaxed. I was bought a swim and lunch voucher, but decided to just take the lunch. This included two courses, and we opted for main and pudding. Very limited vegetarian options and the one main didn't hit the spot for me, but my friend had the seafood dish, which she said was delicious.
Rachel Eden — Google review
Absolutely loved our day here. We did the spa package including massage, tapas lunch and use of the pool. The venue is beautiful, and the facilities great. It felt like a little relaxing haven and we were both so impressed. Can’t wait to come back!
Christie Teed — Google review
Very well done and quaint Lido. It's so pretty, the staff are welcoming and there is something lovely about being outdoors in October yet having access to the facilities. Everything is picture perfect and we enjoyed a lovely 2 course meal at the restaurant as part of our package. However, you do have to pay for parking if there more than 2 hrs which seems a bit unfair when you've paid for a 2hr+ package
Jess Holt — Google review
I went with three friends on a Sunday afternoon in July and had a fab time - the restoration has been done so brilliantly! The staff were super friendly, the pool area very clean and the food was absolutely delicious, I'll definitely go back! We did the Swim & Lunch package and thought it was fantastic value. Bear in mind the changing rooms are individual with showers in, so obviously quite wet so bring flip flops. There is a 'Boudoir Room' for getting ready once you're dry (with hairdryers) which we loved. My only negatives were the the fact you have to pay £6 to park beyond the free 3 hours and that you have to pay £5 to rent a robe even when on a package deal.
Rachel H — Google review
We weren't sure what to expect... but what a fabulous experience! The food was excellent, we had great service, and the atmosphere was so fun! The bocarones were absolutely delicious -- a must-try.
Matt Ronda — Google review
Gorgeous outdoor pool, with hot tub, sauna, steam room, and cold and hot showers. The pool is surrounded on two sides by the restaurant and bar. Spa rooms are upstairs, with wonderful massages and other beauty treatments on offer. Open early to late - for coffee, tapas lunches, and light or serious dinner. Food and drinks are all superb. You can also buy ‘work from the lido’ packages to use the cafe space and wifi and have a swim during the day! I’ve bought massage and swim deals as gifts and they are always well received. A proper gem!
fran a — Google review
Unique experience - especially for Reading! A restored women's bathing house. I did the swim and dine package as I was in town for work meetings. Lovely warm, outdoor pool swim and hot tub that I enjoyed in the rain. There is also a sauna and steam room. Beautiful smelling soap in the showers, gender neutral/private shower stalls, and hairdryers available. And very delicious food afterwards! A nice treat for yourself and would make an amazing date. As a guest, book in advance online.
Muriah U — Google review
One of my favourite places in Reading. Spent a delightful afternoon here in the hot tub, sauna and steam room, followed by an amazing hour long massage, topped off by too much tapas (my bad). Well worth the money for a self care treat.
Jesse Fozbom — Google review
Great place for an evening out. Dine and swim package is overall good value. My meal wasn't as good as on previous occasions I've visited and there was an issue with the menu description. Staff resolved this for me and were friendly and professional. Lido itself is relaxing although it can get quite busy. Pool is chaos, so not a place to go if you want to swim any sort of distance or pace.
Chris Ellison — Google review
Delicious food and great experience. The pool seemed very natural - not much chlorine which was a pleasant surprise. For dinner, we had cauliflower and sea bass (i think) for mains - both of which were top notch. If I had money i would be back!
Search Forward Limited — Google review
This Lido is a complete vibe. Expensive but a vibe. We got a package deal of swimming and lunch and it was amazing. The swimming pool is a bit cold but nice to do some length, the sauna is fantastic and the steam room is great. Changing rooms are good, a bit wet but good and the service at reception are great but due to the amount of people at the restaurant the service was a bit slow with food. When the food did come omg fantastic.
Ben Shonubi — Google review
Lovely afternoon swimming and using the steam room and sauna followed with a glass of cava with fresh flat breads and dips plus tea and cakes. Just a shame that we stayed 5 minutes over the 3 hour's free parking and had to pay £6.
Philip Langdon — Google review
Napier Rd, Reading, RG1 8FR, United Kingdomhttp://www.thameslido.com/+44 118 207 0640Thames LIDO reservations