As Pub in the Park returns to Marlow for its ninth year, celebrating British food and drink, some of the UK's most celebrated chefs have revealed their favourite pubs. From central London hotspots to cherished regional gems, these are the establishments that earn a chef's stamp of approval.
Raymond Blanc OBE picked The Devonshire in Soho, run by his friend Ashley Palmer-Watts, praising its 'great food and brimming with conviviality.' James Martin chose Wonston Arms, a husband-and-wife-run pub in Hampshire that has won Best Little Pub in Hampshire and the UK.
Saturday Kitchen's Matt Tebbutt recommended The Fox & Hounds in Hunsdon, Hertfordshire, calling it 'the quintessential English village country pub' with incredible food, a beer garden for summer and cosy fires for winter. Channel 4's Sunday Brunch presenter Simon selected two favourites: The Devonshire in Soho and Crown Posada in Newcastle.
Fire cooking specialist Genevieve chose Lost & Grounded Brewers in Bristol, praising its Keller Pills beer and the taproom's weekend openings. Adam, who praised The Highland Laddie in Leeds for winning the Good Food Guide's best pub in the UK, highlighted its bar snacks, oysters and beer selection.
Big Nath's BBQ founder Nathan Ritchie nominated Small Bar on King Street in Bristol, with its amazing selection of beers and ciders plus Wings Diner, and also mentioned the Apple boat pub for cider. Jack Blumenthal, son of Heston, admitted bias for Hinds Head in Bray, describing it as 'a posh pub' with unmatched ribeye, chips and a crisp pint.
LumberJaxe founders Brendon and Jaydon chose The Fox Inn in Stourton for its great atmosphere and pub food. AngloThai co-founder John revealed a fondness for Mondo Brewery & Taproom in Battersea, tucked away in his home neighbourhood.
