Russell's Guidebook

Food scene

Here's our recommendations for local food. We've lived in this area for over 20 years and there are plenty of great places to eat and socialise. Words and images from https://www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk/

Darlington Arms

The Darlington Arms is a great place to eat for our guest. Conveniently placed just 1 mile south of our location, you can easily get there by foot in about 10 mins. You can always use your vehicle as well.

Darlington Arms

A38

The Darlington Arms is a great place to eat for our guest. Conveniently placed just 1 mile south of our location, you can easily get there by foot in about 10 mins. You can always use your vehicle as well.

Plough at Wrington

One of our favourite bars for food. The Plough has a great menu. Approximately 2 miles south of our guest house, The Plough gets busy so best to reserve a table if you don't want to be disappointed.

7 locals recommend

Plough at Wrington

High Street

7 locals recommend

One of our favourite bars for food. The Plough has a great menu. Approximately 2 miles south of our guest house, The Plough gets busy so best to reserve a table if you don't want to be disappointed.

The Ethicurean

The Ethicurean Restaurant Modern British 0.5 miles Barley Wood Walled Garden, Long Lane, Wrington , Nr. Bristol , BS40 5SA If you're looking for some of the best locally sourced organic ingredients then look no further. Just 1.5 miles from our guest house, The Ethicurean is a real foodies paradise. In the summer you can sit outside in the walled garden and just enjoy the views of the Mendip hills. A beautiful place to eat and chill. Go check out the cider barn or the art studios which are at the bottom of the gardens. Set amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Barley Wood Walled Gardens, The Ethicurean is a dining experience par excellence. A simple and elegant space where food does most of the talking, the interior features exposed wooden beams overhead and bundles of dried home-grown lavender and herbs offering interludes of colour and aroma. Light and airy, the conservatory offers stunning views of the expertly tended Walled Garden and the verdant countryside beyond, from which a strong contingent of the restaurant’s ingredients are harvested. Lunch is an informal affair, where diners can pop in for a super-food salad or open sandwich, dine from the à la carte or plump for one of the set menus. Tuesday evenings feature a five-course Vegetarian Feast, while from Wednesday to Saturday evenings, the restaurant serves a five-course Full Feast. Expect exquisite, oft-changing dishes that burst with flavour; a typical summer offering might see an amuse-bouche of pea and elderflower granita with smoked trout and borage flowers, and chilled tomato and liquorice soup with basil and balsamic apple gel. This could be followed by macerated strawberry and chicory salad, and mackerel with fennel, gooseberry and compressed cucumber. Mains may come in the form of succulent bavette steak with beetroot and nasturtium flowers; while, for afters, white chocolate mousse with blackcurrant sorbet and lavender sugar will no doubt please. A truly phenomenal list of libations – both alcoholic and otherwise – completes a stand-out bill of fare that will doubtless leave diners wowed.

24 locals recommend

The Ethicurean

24 locals recommend

The Ethicurean Restaurant Modern British 0.5 miles Barley Wood Walled Garden, Long Lane, Wrington , Nr. Bristol , BS40 5SA If you're looking for some of the best locally sourced organic ingredients then look no further. Just 1.5 miles from our guest house, The Ethicurean is a real foodies paradise. In the summer you can sit outside in the walled garden and just enjoy the views of the Mendip hills. A beautiful place to eat and chill. Go check out the cider barn or the art studios which are at the bottom of the gardens. Set amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Barley Wood Walled Gardens, The Ethicurean is a dining experience par excellence. A simple and elegant space where food does most of the talking, the interior features exposed wooden beams overhead and bundles of dried home-grown lavender and herbs offering interludes of colour and aroma. Light and airy, the conservatory offers stunning views of the expertly tended Walled Garden and the verdant countryside beyond, from which a strong contingent of the restaurant’s ingredients are harvested. Lunch is an informal affair, where diners can pop in for a super-food salad or open sandwich, dine from the à la carte or plump for one of the set menus. Tuesday evenings feature a five-course Vegetarian Feast, while from Wednesday to Saturday evenings, the restaurant serves a five-course Full Feast. Expect exquisite, oft-changing dishes that burst with flavour; a typical summer offering might see an amuse-bouche of pea and elderflower granita with smoked trout and borage flowers, and chilled tomato and liquorice soup with basil and balsamic apple gel. This could be followed by macerated strawberry and chicory salad, and mackerel with fennel, gooseberry and compressed cucumber. Mains may come in the form of succulent bavette steak with beetroot and nasturtium flowers; while, for afters, white chocolate mousse with blackcurrant sorbet and lavender sugar will no doubt please. A truly phenomenal list of libations – both alcoholic and otherwise – completes a stand-out bill of fare that will doubtless leave diners wowed.

George and Dragon

The George & Dragon Pubs and Bars with Restaurants 0.5 miles 52 Stanshalls Lane, Felton, Somerset, BS40 9UL Originally a main stopping point for those journeying to and from the south of England, The George & Dragon is now a convenient watering hole on the way to Bristol International Airport. Its roaring open fires, exposed stone walls and sumptuous leather armchairs provide comfort aplenty and, with a warm welcome from proprietors Dave and Karen, you will feel right at home.

George and Dragon

Stanshalls Lane

The George & Dragon Pubs and Bars with Restaurants 0.5 miles 52 Stanshalls Lane, Felton, Somerset, BS40 9UL Originally a main stopping point for those journeying to and from the south of England, The George & Dragon is now a convenient watering hole on the way to Bristol International Airport. Its roaring open fires, exposed stone walls and sumptuous leather armchairs provide comfort aplenty and, with a warm welcome from proprietors Dave and Karen, you will feel right at home.

The Crown

The Crown Traditional 0.5 miles Regil, Winford, BS40 8AY The location of The Crown is ideal for weary travellers seeking a peaceful spot for a break. Set in the Chew Valley countryside, this classic British inn is less than ten minutes from Bristol Airport and offers a wide range of homemade local food. Step inside, be greeted by the hospitable staff and take a seat by the log-burning fire. The rustic interior – with its original beams and flagstone flooring – will have you feeling utterly at home. After ordering a pint of ale, or a real West Country cider, peruse the food menus. There’s also a kids’ selection for younger diners. Start with a small plate of chicken goujons before indulging in the freshly made pie of the day, or try the mushroom, black pudding and chorizo stack followed by a flavourful pork and apple burger. On Sundays, be sure to check out The Crown’s traditional roast lunch.

The Crown

10 All Saints Ln

The Crown Traditional 0.5 miles Regil, Winford, BS40 8AY The location of The Crown is ideal for weary travellers seeking a peaceful spot for a break. Set in the Chew Valley countryside, this classic British inn is less than ten minutes from Bristol Airport and offers a wide range of homemade local food. Step inside, be greeted by the hospitable staff and take a seat by the log-burning fire. The rustic interior – with its original beams and flagstone flooring – will have you feeling utterly at home. After ordering a pint of ale, or a real West Country cider, peruse the food menus. There’s also a kids’ selection for younger diners. Start with a small plate of chicken goujons before indulging in the freshly made pie of the day, or try the mushroom, black pudding and chorizo stack followed by a flavourful pork and apple burger. On Sundays, be sure to check out The Crown’s traditional roast lunch.

Prince's Motto

The Princes Motto Traditional 0.5 miles Barrow Street, Barrow Gurney, BS48 3RY 01275 474 608 Set just outside Bristol, The Princes Motto occupies pride of place in the village of Barrow Gurney. With its traditional decor and friendly atmosphere, this pub is a firm favourite with the locals and provides a convenient stop for travellers on their way to the city or the nearby airport. There’s plenty of seating in both the restaurant and bar area and the garden is particularly popular during summer. For those popping in for a pint, there’s plenty to choose from: expect local real ale, West Country cider and a great selection of ever-popular lagers. Wine-drinkers are offered an extensive selection, ensuring nobody goes without. Like any good British pub, The Princes Motto also serves up a tempting menu of home-cooked fare. Classic pub dishes like steak and ale pie and fish and chips are served alongside tasty vegetarian plates, sandwiches and a children’s menu.

Prince's Motto

Barrow Street

The Princes Motto Traditional 0.5 miles Barrow Street, Barrow Gurney, BS48 3RY 01275 474 608 Set just outside Bristol, The Princes Motto occupies pride of place in the village of Barrow Gurney. With its traditional decor and friendly atmosphere, this pub is a firm favourite with the locals and provides a convenient stop for travellers on their way to the city or the nearby airport. There’s plenty of seating in both the restaurant and bar area and the garden is particularly popular during summer. For those popping in for a pint, there’s plenty to choose from: expect local real ale, West Country cider and a great selection of ever-popular lagers. Wine-drinkers are offered an extensive selection, ensuring nobody goes without. Like any good British pub, The Princes Motto also serves up a tempting menu of home-cooked fare. Classic pub dishes like steak and ale pie and fish and chips are served alongside tasty vegetarian plates, sandwiches and a children’s menu.

Winford manor

Labyrinth Restaurant British 0.5 miles Winford Manor Hotel, Old Hill, Winford, BS40 8DW 01275472292 Close your eyes and you can still see, taste and smell the tranquility. You're seated within seven acres of beautifully tended grounds looking out onto spectacular views of North Somerset's glorious countryside... you're at the wonderful and simply stunning Winford Manor. The building dates back to the 17th Century and has recently been renovated and transformed into a privately owned contemporary hotel, oozing character and sophistication. It's the place to come to relax and unwind. Leave the stresses and strains of modern life at its perfectly manicured entrance and enter a sanctuary of soothing serenity. An impressive array of deer, kites, foxes and owls also enjoy the manor, as do the flush of ducks who float around in its large pond. It's hard to believe, once inside, that you are only a 20- minute drive from Bristol's city centre and one and a half miles from its international airport. Spring 2009 saw the opening of Winford's new Labyrinth Restaurant. Located within the old manor house, its garden room brings a feeling of the outside in. Combining original structural features with modern furnishings, the room's stunning ceiling-to-floor glass panels allow you to gaze upon farreaching views of Chew Valley - the ambience of the natural environment seeping inside. The restaurant also looks out onto the manor's box labyrinth. Planted to mark the millennium, and following in the tradition of formal box parterres of 18th-Century grand manor houses, the labyrinth is not only another unique string to Winford's bow, but is also a fantastic place to explore. The menu aims to capture every palate, aiming for delicious simplicity. Talented head chef Matt Woods has created an uncomplicated yet varied menu using the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients. Food miles are kept to a minimum and everything is cooked and prepared on site, meaning special dietary requirements and wishes can easily be accommodated. There is even a full vegetarian menu - a sure sign of a chef who not only understands, but cares about his diners. When it comes to making your dining decisions, the menu too is a labyrinth of tantalising, tasty temptations. To start, one might deliberate over Stilton fritters on cucumber noodles and gazpacho, and pork and liver terrine with quince chutney. For the main event, decisions must be made between the rich haunch of venison served with braised puy lentils and a juniper-infused sauce, and the lighter, but tongue-tingling, grilled plaice with a warm brown butter, caper and parsley dressing. And for the veggies, Sardinian-style risotto with roasted cherry tomatoes, basil pesto and green olive tapenade, or a selection of fresh egg linguine with a choice of sauces. No dinner date in such a setting would be complete without indulging in something a little naughty, so allow the crepes filled with pastry cream and caramelised orange syrup to seduce you and conclude your perfect evening.

Winford manor

Old Hill

Labyrinth Restaurant British 0.5 miles Winford Manor Hotel, Old Hill, Winford, BS40 8DW 01275472292 Close your eyes and you can still see, taste and smell the tranquility. You're seated within seven acres of beautifully tended grounds looking out onto spectacular views of North Somerset's glorious countryside... you're at the wonderful and simply stunning Winford Manor. The building dates back to the 17th Century and has recently been renovated and transformed into a privately owned contemporary hotel, oozing character and sophistication. It's the place to come to relax and unwind. Leave the stresses and strains of modern life at its perfectly manicured entrance and enter a sanctuary of soothing serenity. An impressive array of deer, kites, foxes and owls also enjoy the manor, as do the flush of ducks who float around in its large pond. It's hard to believe, once inside, that you are only a 20- minute drive from Bristol's city centre and one and a half miles from its international airport. Spring 2009 saw the opening of Winford's new Labyrinth Restaurant. Located within the old manor house, its garden room brings a feeling of the outside in. Combining original structural features with modern furnishings, the room's stunning ceiling-to-floor glass panels allow you to gaze upon farreaching views of Chew Valley - the ambience of the natural environment seeping inside. The restaurant also looks out onto the manor's box labyrinth. Planted to mark the millennium, and following in the tradition of formal box parterres of 18th-Century grand manor houses, the labyrinth is not only another unique string to Winford's bow, but is also a fantastic place to explore. The menu aims to capture every palate, aiming for delicious simplicity. Talented head chef Matt Woods has created an uncomplicated yet varied menu using the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients. Food miles are kept to a minimum and everything is cooked and prepared on site, meaning special dietary requirements and wishes can easily be accommodated. There is even a full vegetarian menu - a sure sign of a chef who not only understands, but cares about his diners. When it comes to making your dining decisions, the menu too is a labyrinth of tantalising, tasty temptations. To start, one might deliberate over Stilton fritters on cucumber noodles and gazpacho, and pork and liver terrine with quince chutney. For the main event, decisions must be made between the rich haunch of venison served with braised puy lentils and a juniper-infused sauce, and the lighter, but tongue-tingling, grilled plaice with a warm brown butter, caper and parsley dressing. And for the veggies, Sardinian-style risotto with roasted cherry tomatoes, basil pesto and green olive tapenade, or a selection of fresh egg linguine with a choice of sauces. No dinner date in such a setting would be complete without indulging in something a little naughty, so allow the crepes filled with pastry cream and caramelised orange syrup to seduce you and conclude your perfect evening.

The Bear & Swan

The Bear & Swan Gastropub 0.5 miles 13 South Parade, Chew Magna, BS40 8PR Just minutes from Bristol, The Bear & Swan is a welcoming 18th-century pub with four boutique rooms and abundant character. This traditional country retreat is perfect for those en-route to Bristol Airport, as well as those visiting the area on business or enjoying a relaxed break to explore Bristol, Bath and the surrounding countryside. The restaurant is popular among walkers, families, couples, visitors and locals alike, and boasts an extensive à la carte offering alongside lunch and bar menus. All ingredients at The Bear & Swan are sourced locally where possible, guaranteeing that every dish is of a consistently high standard and tastes as fresh as can be. Visit for a hearty English breakfast, a light lunch or a generous evening meal; whenever you pop in you can expect the same friendly hospitality and laid-back ambience. The main menu includes appetisers such as deep-fried Cajun squid with rocket and aioli, and hoisin pork belly accompanied by peanuts, spring onion and hoisin dipping sauce. Sumptuous starters include pan-fried scallops with black pudding and cauliflower purée, and a delicious salad of beetroot, goat’s curd, caramelised walnuts and fig. The pan-fried duck breast, accompanied by a potato and mozzarella croquette, spring greens, baby carrots and raspberry jus is a perfectly balanced main, and the lamb rump with roasted rosemary new potatoes, Mediterranean vegetables, pesto and rocket is also hard to resist. Fresh seafood dishes include lemon- and herb-crusted salmon fillet, which is enhanced by tomato, red onion, garlic, parsley and a hint of chilli. For vegetarians, we recommend the wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil, Parmesan and rocket, which is absolutely divine. To enhance your dining experience, choose from a great range of cider, lager and beer or peruse the extensive and carefully selected wine list for the perfect pairing. For special occasions, Prosecco is served by the glass or the bottle, and Champagne is available too. Friendly staff, fantastic food and a warm, cosy interior are just some of the reasons to visit The Bear & Swan. Visit the website for up-to-date offers or to make your reservation.

15 locals recommend

The Bear & Swan

15 locals recommend

The Bear & Swan Gastropub 0.5 miles 13 South Parade, Chew Magna, BS40 8PR Just minutes from Bristol, The Bear & Swan is a welcoming 18th-century pub with four boutique rooms and abundant character. This traditional country retreat is perfect for those en-route to Bristol Airport, as well as those visiting the area on business or enjoying a relaxed break to explore Bristol, Bath and the surrounding countryside. The restaurant is popular among walkers, families, couples, visitors and locals alike, and boasts an extensive à la carte offering alongside lunch and bar menus. All ingredients at The Bear & Swan are sourced locally where possible, guaranteeing that every dish is of a consistently high standard and tastes as fresh as can be. Visit for a hearty English breakfast, a light lunch or a generous evening meal; whenever you pop in you can expect the same friendly hospitality and laid-back ambience. The main menu includes appetisers such as deep-fried Cajun squid with rocket and aioli, and hoisin pork belly accompanied by peanuts, spring onion and hoisin dipping sauce. Sumptuous starters include pan-fried scallops with black pudding and cauliflower purée, and a delicious salad of beetroot, goat’s curd, caramelised walnuts and fig. The pan-fried duck breast, accompanied by a potato and mozzarella croquette, spring greens, baby carrots and raspberry jus is a perfectly balanced main, and the lamb rump with roasted rosemary new potatoes, Mediterranean vegetables, pesto and rocket is also hard to resist. Fresh seafood dishes include lemon- and herb-crusted salmon fillet, which is enhanced by tomato, red onion, garlic, parsley and a hint of chilli. For vegetarians, we recommend the wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil, Parmesan and rocket, which is absolutely divine. To enhance your dining experience, choose from a great range of cider, lager and beer or peruse the extensive and carefully selected wine list for the perfect pairing. For special occasions, Prosecco is served by the glass or the bottle, and Champagne is available too. Friendly staff, fantastic food and a warm, cosy interior are just some of the reasons to visit The Bear & Swan. Visit the website for up-to-date offers or to make your reservation.

Al Fresco cucina Italiana Cleeve

Al Fresco - Cleeve Italian 0.5 miles 64 Main Road, Cleeve, Bristol, BS49 4PF Bristol and the surrounding area are lucky enough to boast not just one but two Al Fresco restaurants, both of which serve excellent Italian dishes to a host of regulars and visitors alike. The restaurants are known for authentic flavours and honest cooking that pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine. The team invites family and friends to sit together around the table and enjoy fantastic food in true Italian style. Al Fresco in Cleeve features contemporary interiors, with rich wood furnishings and soothing colour palettes, while the Westbury-on-Trym branch enjoys relaxing silver hues, creating a light, swish space for relaxed drinking and dining. Like the name suggests, guests can dine al fresco in the courtyard patio when the sun shines in Cleeve. Part of Al Fresco’s success is thanks to its extensive menu, which lists a plethora of Italian favourites cooked with love and served by friendly staff. The chefs use traditional recipes and incorporate as much fresh and authentic Italian produce as possible. The menu features everything from antipasti, pizza and grills to pasta, risotto and salads; there’s something for everyone. The portions are hearty and rich but you’ll want to leave room for pud. There’s a children’s menu, allowing the whole tribe to dine with ease, and both restaurants also open for lunch from noon until 3pm. Whatever the occasion, you’re sure to enjoy your visit.

Al Fresco cucina Italiana Cleeve

64 Main Rd

Al Fresco - Cleeve Italian 0.5 miles 64 Main Road, Cleeve, Bristol, BS49 4PF Bristol and the surrounding area are lucky enough to boast not just one but two Al Fresco restaurants, both of which serve excellent Italian dishes to a host of regulars and visitors alike. The restaurants are known for authentic flavours and honest cooking that pays homage to traditional Italian cuisine. The team invites family and friends to sit together around the table and enjoy fantastic food in true Italian style. Al Fresco in Cleeve features contemporary interiors, with rich wood furnishings and soothing colour palettes, while the Westbury-on-Trym branch enjoys relaxing silver hues, creating a light, swish space for relaxed drinking and dining. Like the name suggests, guests can dine al fresco in the courtyard patio when the sun shines in Cleeve. Part of Al Fresco’s success is thanks to its extensive menu, which lists a plethora of Italian favourites cooked with love and served by friendly staff. The chefs use traditional recipes and incorporate as much fresh and authentic Italian produce as possible. The menu features everything from antipasti, pizza and grills to pasta, risotto and salads; there’s something for everyone. The portions are hearty and rich but you’ll want to leave room for pud. There’s a children’s menu, allowing the whole tribe to dine with ease, and both restaurants also open for lunch from noon until 3pm. Whatever the occasion, you’re sure to enjoy your visit.