Get in the festive mood with some good food
For many, the holy grail of Christmas is the Christmas lunch. Somewhere, right now, there will be a group of people who will be incensed when reading that sentence. They will argue that it is not traditional to have it at lunch but instead must be a Christmas dinner. I’m not going to get into that discussion here (but it is Christmas lunch). Whatever time you may have it, we can all agree that it is great and not just the lunch but the food we get to eat over the Christmas period is one of the best parts. There is nothing better than sampling some fine festive feasts in preparation for the big day, but the question is where to go? Well, we've got you covered. In this post, we share our top recommendations for places outside of London to go for a merry meal in the month of December.
The Petersham Restaurant, Richmond
- Distance from Virtuo Earls court station: 8 miles
- Not only does the Petersham restaurant boast the finest in British cuisine, but it is also unique in that it has the best, floor to ceiling panoramic views of the River Thames in Richmond. During the month of December, the place transforms into a winter dream with falling snow and frequent visits from Fr. Christmas. You can enjoy a three-course meal for £55 per person.
The Village Pub, Barnsley
- Distance from Virtuo Shepherds Bush station: 91 miles
- Enjoy a merry tipple in this picture-perfect Cotswold country house. Over the festive period, they are providing all the essentials: crackling fires, mouth-watering food and craft ales. Their three-course festive feast showcases the very best local produce with traditional butchers cuts and seasonal veg on the menu. If you are looking to experience a real British Christmas then look no further.
The Poet, Matfield
- Distance from Virtuo Clapham Common station: 30 miles
- This Gastropub provides an informal setting where you can enjoy a polished dining experience. With its rich history, the pub boasts a charismatic setting in a 16th-century building in the countryside of Kent. On their festive menu, you will find Heritage Tomato, Dry Aged Beef Carpaccio and Cep Velouté. You can wash down these delights with fine wine, quirky cocktails or from a selection of 70 craft gins.
The Lion and Lobster, Brighton
- Distance from Virtuo Clapham Common station: 50 miles
- If you are looking for character, open fires and top quality food, then look no further than the lion and lobster. One of the favourites of Brighton locals, it has an array of vintage imagery, rich mahogany and vibrant brass. During the Christmas period, this quaint pub is the perfect place to get your festive on. They’ll host a Christmas market, roast chestnuts and have a live choir harking the herald angels.
Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter
- Distance from Virtuo Kings Cross station: 85 miles
- If you are wanting a real country house festive experience then be sure to check out this 17th-century Cotswold rectory. Set amongst the peaceful and scenic countryside of Gloucestershire, this place is surrounded by tiny villages to explore and enjoy. Inside the manor, you will find roaring log fires and a kitchen that has crafted the finest yuletide feast for you to enjoy. If the life of royalty sounds like it excites you, then head over to the Lords of the Manor.
Christmas is a great time to share valuable time with friends and family and what a perfect way to do so than over some delicious food in some truly special parts of the country. Get out of London, get in the festive spirit and see what’s out there!
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