Hinds Head, Maidenhead

Heston Blumenthal’s place, but there is still a fair bit of traditional pub going on here. It’s GII listed and the inside certainly gives a fair flavour as to its c.15 origins; full length dark varnish wood panelling, beams and supporting poles abound and although a fair chunk of the place is given over to eating, there is also a bar area where the locals can (and do) drink in regular pub fashion. An unexpectedly good ale selection, all local too; Rebellion IPA, Wild Weather Storm in a Teacup (sadly, rather so-so) and Siren Under Current, alongside a cider, Vintage Pip. Expect wallet-bothering prices, it was 5 quid for half lemonade and a half of the Wild Weather. Not really worth the bother unless you intend to eat but it’s certainly a few notches above fellow celebrity chef Marco Pierre-White’s effort in Berkshire.

A traditional pub in the centre of this pleasant village, it is owned by Heston Blumenthal and hence whilst the food offering takes up a large part of the pub, there is nonetheless also a traditional bar area to one side where it appears that you are more than welcome to pop in and sample one of the real ales that are available. The bar area is an L-shape room on the right of the pub, and this had wood panelling on the rather wonky walls, a low beamed ceiling, some substantial wooden supporting posts and parquet wood flooring. A large brick fire-place was at the back, although it appeared to be only a gas fire that was in there these days. A small selection of board games was stacked up to one side. The area off to the left looks to be more intended for dining with all the tables laid up for food, and the extensive wood panelling here made it somewhat reminiscent of a hotel drawing room, which perhaps it was at one time. A smaller fire-place was on the back wall, along with an old black and white photograph. Beyond this was another dining area, and a small staircase in the corner led to a further bar/restaurant upstairs, although we did not investigate this. Beers on tap were Two Cocks Viscount and Marlow Rebellion IPA, although there were a further two pumps that were unused, so there may on occasions be others. The solitary cider was Harry’s Traditional Farmhouse. Prices seemed a little steep with two soft drinks and a couple of packets of crisps coming in at £9.30.

Official site of The Hinds Head - www.hindsheadbray.com

Official site of The Hinds Head - www.hindsheadbray.com

A lovely, traditional and historic pub in wealthy Bray. Food is just a bit more than 'gastro' as it's presided over by Heston Blumenthal with menus changing daily. Worth a trip for the pub and the food.