It was a cold and dark January evening. I was driven straight from Swindon station to this delightful little country pub. I'd had a busy day in London - it was a Friday and very very cold - so I was itching to get out and experience something rural - heartwarming and cosy.
As you drive into Oaksey - everything in Winter is dark - so unless you know your way - you have to be careful not to miss any of the signs. We pulled into what was a very very small village - typically Cotswolds. Small cottages etc - think 'The Holiday' with Cameron Diaz.
The pub is off the main road. Inside is a bar area, with a smart looking restaurant around the back. The crowd looks country-ish - yet smart and welcoming. We were shown straight to our table. Usually you'd have to book, but on this occasion - and it being bitterly cold - it wasn't too busy.
The menu is fantastic, and our waitress (working alone) knew a lot about the food - despite appearing to come across like an A-Level student. There's an 'Award winning' burger which my friend had, and a spectacular selection of vegetarian offerings. I say this is as most British country pubs specialise in meat; the good ones will have vegetarian options that surpass the meat equivalent - not seeming like 'a second option' or a 'viable alternative'.
The bill was reasonable (I guess that) I was lucky enough not to see it. In any case, most country pubs don't exceed London prices - some of them may try and match them. The exception being where there is a celebrity chef involved.
As we left, everything was covered in a blanked of snow, and I felt very sleepy whilst being driven back to where we were staying. Possibly because of the Chilean Merlot I had. Overall, I would say it's a gem of pub - which in the winter - is like a haven amidst the darkness. read more