The Baskerville

About

A multi-award-winning, traditional, village inn, The Baskerville Arms, which has been in the same ownership for the last 16 years. It has established itself as one of the go-to places in South Oxfordshire for relaxed, informal fine dining within a traditional pub atmosphere. Eschewing much of the modernity typically found in many village pubs these days, by entering its doors you take a step back in time to the way pubs used to be.

Run by the Hannah family and located in Lower Shiplake, it is a leisurely walk along the Thames Path from Henley-on-Thames and an even shorter stroll from Shiplake station; it retains a ‘proper’ bar adorned with rowing and rugby memorabilia on the walls where you can enjoy four perfectly kept, cask beers from Loddon and Marlow breweries. In summer relax in the beautiful garden or in winter you can cosy up to a roaring log fire.

The Baskerville works hard to be distinctive and great service is one of its hallmarks and upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted by either Manager, Kevin Hannah, his Deputy, Sophie Carnihan or one of the friendly and attentive front of house staff. 

The quality of its food is another. With compassionate farming, sustainability, seasonality and localism  in mind, Head Chef, Jamie Herridge and his amazing brigade work with long established suppliers to source the best fresh produce; the genesis for any great dish. His dishes are modern British and European in concept and presentation with their origins in classic combinations of ingredients. With flavours beautifully balanced, they are cooked to order, so if there is a little wait, it will be well worth it. An extensive well-chosen wine list of 70 bins with a dozen or so by the glass ensures there is always the perfect complement to your meal and to finish, there is a wide range of spirits and liqueurs including over 50 malt whiskies.

The restaurant is just off the bar has well-spaced tables, leather high-backed chairs and an eclectic mix of art on the walls. Dine here, in the bar if you have brought the dogs or in summer in the beautiful garden. No matter where, the superb staff will look after you and ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and memorable. Just a tip, it can get very busy, so it is always advisable to book early - they hate to disappoint.

Menus constantly adapt with the seasons and market availability, so check the website for the current menu but three pub classics are always on offer. Daily changing specials include a range of 28 day dry aged Oxfordshire steaks and children and vegetarians have separate alternative menus. Sunday lunch offers three roasts and a selection of the mains. The lunch menu also has delicious and filling open sandwiches and lighter options. Bar snacks are available in the bar but not on Sundays.
Homemade desserts are definitely worth leaving room for.

The four ensuite bedrooms, three double and one family, were recently fully refurbished and are comfortable well-appointed.  Features include king size luxury pocket-sprung beds, power showers, flat screen TVs with Freesat channels, free WIFI and hospitality trays. Each bedroom is beautifully decorated with its own character and is named after a local Thames lock. Dogs are permitted in the bedrooms for a small extra charge. Prices include our award winning, chef cooked breakfast.
Enjoy ‘a little slice of happiness’ with a mid-week or weekend break.