Berkshire has long been known for its countryside walks, riverside views and historic towns, many of which are just a stone's throw away from London. But scattered across its charming villages, market squares and former coaching routes lies a treasure trove of classic British pubs. Some lean towards fine dining, with menus worthy of a Michelin nod, while others embrace tradition with roaring fires, low beams, and hearty food and ale. From Bray’s celebrated gastropubs to centuries-old inns that once welcomed passing travellers, Berkshire offers a remarkable range of pubs to discover – and return to – when visiting this characterful corner of England.
The Hind’s Head
One of the county's oldest pubs, this 15th-century inn blends village pub character with rich and homely recipes that, much like the place itself, have stood the test of time. Stepping inside, guests must crouch to avoid the low-beamed ceilings, with a small maze of corridors connecting a series of intimate dining rooms where tables sit close enough for conversation to carry across the room. Coupled with old stone floors and leather chairs, the Hind's Head is positively steeped in atmosphere and old-world charm.
The food is the real draw here, and it’s a delight to see traditional British dishes elevated to such a standard. Classics such as devils on horseback, Scotch eggs, and steak and kidney pudding are prepared with all the care and attention required to turn these now lesser-talked-about pub staples into dishes of depth and balance. The kitchen is stringent when it comes to seasonal produce, with menus that shift on a “if it doesn't grow, it doesn't go” basis. This is a Berkshire pub that deserves repeat custom to fully sample its menu.
The Crown at Bray
The Crown at Bray is an atmospheric coaching inn that has been carefully reimagined. Polished wooden floors, thick oak beams and a traditional bar packed with locally brewed ales anchor the space, while leather booths and patterned fabrics bring a touch of grace to the setting. The walled garden is a highlight during the warmer months, with tables laid out beneath lanterns that allow diners to linger long into the evening, picking over small plates.
Food at The Crown favours seasonal British cooking, with the occasional smattering of European influence. Expect slow-braised lamb shoulder with root vegetables in winter, continental fish dishes in summer, and puddings that lean heavily into nostalgia, such as bread and butter pudding and rhubarb crumble. The pub has a cult-like following for its Sunday roasts, but weekday dining holds just as much appeal thanks to the fine balance between heartier fare and more refined plates.
The Hare & Hounds
Once a 17th-century coaching inn, The Hare & Hounds in West Berkshire has kept its heritage intact while offering guests a stylish countryside retreat. The whole pub has a certain romantic feel – from the stone walls and timber detailing on the outside to the exposed beams, polished wood floors and rustic dining rooms within. The hotel rooms are a highlight, blending tradition with modern comfort by way of copper tubs, wood-carved furnishings, and plush bedding.
The kitchen builds on classic pub cooking with a contemporary hand. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all wholesome affairs, crafted with creative flair. Menus change with the seasons, ensuring game in autumn, lighter dishes in summer, and – this being England – a dependable Sunday roast. Whether checking in for the night or stopping by for an evening meal by the fire, The Hare & Hounds is one of Berkshire’s finest countryside pubs.
The Loch & The Tyne by Adam Handling
A long-established staple of Old Windsor, The Loch & The Tyne offers something distinctly modern while staying true to its pub roots. It’s one of the oldest in the area – not that it shows, as the building has been restored with great care, blending original features with some much-needed touch-ups. Inside, you’ll find wood panelling, open fireplaces and reclaimed furniture mixed with sumptuous fabrics. Outside, the terrace opens onto neighbouring fields, offering a beautifully bucolic summer dining spot.
The kitchen champions sustainability and seasonality. Here you can expect colourful plates that make an impression at first sight. Flavours are balanced but bold – from fresh seafood to locally sourced meats and inventive vegetarian dishes. Perhaps the most appealing thing about The Loch & The Tyne is that it manages to be both a laid-back neighbourhood pub and a true dining destination in Berkshire – equally suited to a quiet pint as a full evening out.
The Royal Oak
In the heart of Yattendon village, The Royal Oak blends the mood of a country pub with the poise of a boutique inn. Sage green walls, stone flagging and a luminous skylight lend the interiors a soft, timeless feel, while ten hotel rooms upstairs offer a homely overnight stay. Downstairs, the bar pours beer brewed just around the corner at the Yattendon Estate and draws a steady local crowd on weekends. The dining rooms are set slightly apart – calmer, more polished – allowing the food to take centre stage even when the pub is full.
The menu favours simplicity done well, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and unfussy British cooking. Roasts are a cornerstone, especially on Sundays, while the à la carte menu embraces countryside comfort – think well-sourced meats, fresh market veg, and a strong showing of vegetarian and plant-based plates. There’s a separate menu for group dining, and in warmer months, the walled garden makes an inviting setting for long, lazy lunches.
