Low food miles, foraged ingredients, and locally sourced fare with a modern twist? Count us in.
Proudly perched atop the Cotwolds hills, Burleigh Court has quietly been serving up some of the best local produce Gloucestershire has to offer. The award winning, two-rosette restaurant headed by chef Shaun Jones has been showcasing the very best locally reared meats and home-grown vegetables from the kitchen garden, all garnished with foraged ingredients plucked from nearby fields and hedgerows. With grand windows boasting sweeping views of the open countryside beyond, here you will find a classically styled restaurant with modern, delicious fare.
The restaurant is a clear reflection of its surroundings, the beautiful Burleigh Court Hotel. Wood panelling and a wide selection of artwork are complimented by the considerate soft touches scattered around the property: snuggly blankets for late evening al-fresco dining, sinkable plush sofas with dangerous nap potential. The dining room is formal enough to feel special, yet comfortable enough to feel like home. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy afternoon tea or a souped-up celebratory dinner, the Burleigh Court backdrop will have you feeling relaxed, nurtured, and well fed.
The menu, bustling with modern classics, will tempt even the fussiest of eaters. As an eco-conscious restaurant devoted to keeping food miles to a minimum, you can bet your bottom dollar that what arrives on your plate has not been languishing in the deep freeze for the last six months. The opportunity to sample a variety of local produce, cooked with the utmost respect and care, is one not to be missed. Whilst the menu boasts variety, for me, the true star of the show was their 30 day Dry-aged Local Chateaubriand. Seared to utter perfection, I have tried, and failed, to find a cut as succulent and perfectly cooked elsewhere. Served as a sharing dish for two, Burleigh Court’s take on steak was so delicious, I’d be tempted to have a solo bash at it on my next visit.
Herbivores, fear not: it’s not all about the meat. Burleigh Court’s bustling kitchen garden allows for some seriously delicious meat-free options. The Burleigh Court Garden Jerusalem Artichoke Pearl Barley with devilishly tart pickled shallots is a firm favourite for plant-based diets, whilst pescatarians can enjoy the best of the sea with Burleigh’s Tarragon Beurre Noisette Halibut with fennel, samphire, and clams. Desserts range from refreshing to indulgent, my favourites being the Stem Ginger Steamed Pudding with poached rhubarb, and the delectable yet aesthetically pleasing White Chocolate Mousse. Perfect for luring in the double taps on Instagram.
For the wine lovers, Burleigh Court’s expert staff are on hand to recommend a variety of grapes that will complement your dish, from champagne and sparkling to white, rosé and reds. The bar is also stocked with a wide variety of classic favourites, from Aperol Spritz for a hazy summer evening dining on the terrace, to Sandeman 10y Tawny Port to accompany your cheeseboard.
Insider tips:
1: Afternoon tea on the terrace can book up quickly in the summer months. Be sure to book ahead as far as possible.
2: A glass of Toffee Apple Moonshine liqueur is the perfect accompaniment to Burleigh Court’s Sticky Toffee Pudding.
3: Al Fresco dining with home-made sourdough wood fired pizzas is available in the warmer months. An experience not to be missed, curl up next to the firepit with a slice of pizza and a cocktail on a hazy summer night.
How to book:
Bookings can be made online or by telephone. For those making a night of it, rooms start from £139 per night.
Address: Burleigh Court Hotel, The Roundabouts, Brimscombe, Stroud, Gloucestershire, GL5 2PF
Phone: +44(0)1453 933043
Email: reservations@burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk
Website: www.burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk/restaurant
Food editor Debby travels the world in search of the best epicurean experiences.