Pub in the Park unveils sizzling line-up for 2026 – with tickets on sale now

Zoe Gater

food

Over four days, visitors can enjoy top chefs and pop-up restaurants, live performances from big-name artists, and a mix of talks, masterclasses, and interactive experiences as Pub in the Park returns.

The ultimate food and music festival returns to Marlow this spring, when Pub in the Park hosts some of the nation’s best chefs, tasty pop-up restaurants and unmissable live performances.

Running from Thursday 14 to Sunday 17 May 2026, guests can enjoy four days of delicious food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Culinary programme at Pub in the Park

Experience bold flavours, unforgettable dishes and a showcase of talent at this year’s festival.

Visitors include talented chef, author, and presenter Si King, whose approachable, hearty cooking has captivated audiences for decades. Other stars include the renowned Raymond Blanc OBE, the much-loved UK chef James Martin, and Tommy Banks, the youngest British chef to achieve a Michelin star, who will showcase his thoughtful, seasonal approach.

And don’t miss television favourite Matt Tebbutt, joined by special guest and wine expert Helen McGinn, as well as the pioneer of modern Indian cuisine in the UK and Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.

Other unmissable names on the bill include Simon Rimmer, Emily English, Candice Brown, Thuy Diem Pham, Ping Coombes, Adam Purnell, Jack Blumenthal, Karan Gokani, and more.

Restaurants at Pub in the Park

With a mix of new and returning restaurants and pubs, you won’t struggle to find something delicious to tuck into this May 2026.

Expect The Oarsman and The Star Inn, bringing elevated pub classics; cult chicken brand Ginger Wings; Raymond Blanc’s The George & Dragon; and, for seafood lovers, simple coastal-inspired dishes from Rick Stein.

New for this year, Temper brings bold, fire-led cooking and tacos to the park, while Six by Nico offers a playful and immersive approach to dining. Fresh from the countryside, enjoy ingredient-led cooking straight from field to flame with Oxmoor Farm, or experience brilliant comfort food at Tommy’s Pie Shop. And burger legends The Beefy Boys will also be serving their award-winning, flavour-packed creations.

After something spicy? Sticky Mango delivers global flair and vibrant Thai flavours.

Music headliners at Pub in the Park

Don’t forget your dancing shoes – Pub in the Park has a brilliant line-up of performers to keep you entertained.

Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Craig David, Gabrielle, McFly, Craig Charles, and Razorlight are among just some of the top names announced to perform live for guests this year.

Alternative entertainment at Pub in the Park

If all that wasn’t enough, the festival also introduces several exciting new additions.

For the first time, guests can dance the night away at the all-new Kitchen Disco, enjoy inspiring talks with favourite authors in the Book Club Tent, and deepen their drinks knowledge in the Drinks Masterclass Tent.

Tickets to Pub in the Park

Standard ticket prices start from £47 per person, with special VIP packages also available.

For more information or to book, visit pubintheparkuk.com.

Treat mum to a countryside escape in Newbury this Mother’s Day

Zoe Gater

food

Looking to treat mum to an unforgettable Mother’s Day in 2026? Newbury’s charming boutique pub and hotel, Hare & Hounds, has pulled together a full weekend of celebrations to make her feel extra special.

Families looking to celebrate Mother’s Day in style can head to Hare & Hounds in Newbury, where a full weekend of brunches, afternoon teas, Sunday roasts and overnight stays will take place on 14 and 15 March 2026.

To begin with, the weekend kicks off with a Mother’s Day Brunch, where mum will receive a complimentary mimosa, Bloody Mary or soft drink on arrival. For those wanting to elevate the experience even further, there’s the option to upgrade to 90 minutes of bottomless cocktails for £38 per person.

Alternatively, guests can opt for Afternoon Tea with finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and Tiptree preserves, alongside indulgent sweet treats such as red velvet cake and mini chocolate eclairs.

And what’s Sunday without a traditional roast? Guests can tuck into seasonal dishes specially designed for the occasion, starting with pressed duck terrine, burrata or twice-baked cheddar soufflé.

For mains, choose from rosemary roasted leg of West Country lamb, dry-aged rump of British beef or porchetta. To finish, desserts include blueberry cheesecake, Belgian chocolate mille-feuille and classic sticky toffee pudding.

What’s more, tables of four or more dining after 5pm will receive a complimentary bottle of prosecco. Meanwhile, for evening bookings between 6pm and 8pm, kids can eat for just £1, making it an ideal option for families.

Finally, for those wishing to turn the celebration into a full weekend escape, the hotel is offering a special Mothering Sunday overnight stay package. This includes breakfast and a bottle of prosecco in the room, with prices starting from just £99 per room on Sunday 15 March.

For more information or to book, visit hareandhoundsnewbury.co.uk.

Surprise tasting menu launches at The Mutton at Hazeley Heath

Zoe Gater

food

A five-course menu that changes daily, championing the best seasonal British ingredients, has arrived at one of Hampshire’s most celebrated countryside pubs — giving diners a fresh reason to book a table.

Foodies looking for a reason to escape to the countryside have a delicious excuse as The Mutton at Hazeley Heath launches its brand-new ‘surprise’ tasting menu.

The award-winning Hampshire pub is serving up a five-course dining experience that changes daily, championing the every best seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Designed to showcase peak British produce, the menu promises something different with every visit.

Curated each day by head chef Rob Boer, the tasting menu is guided by the freshest ingredients available and the kitchen’s creative inspiration.

Diners can expect beautifully executed dishes that reflect both the rhythm of the seasons and the skill that has cemented The Mutton’s reputation as a destination for exceptional dining.

Priced at £70 per person and available Tuesday to Saturday, the experience is a celebration of flavour and flexibility, with an ever-evolving line-up of dishes drawn from the pub’s most loved creations.

Set within a lovingly restored 19th-century public house, The Mutton pairs refined cooking with warm, rural charm.

Over the years, the Hampshire gem has racked up an impressive list of accolades, including South East ‘Pub of the Year’ at the 2024 National Pub & Awards, Silver for Best Pub at The Beautiful South Awards 2025/26 and two AA Rosettes.

For more information or to book, visit The Mutton’s website.

Free sweets for Buckinghamshire locals this Valentine’s Day

Zoe Gater

food

High Wycombe gets a sweet new addition this Valentine’s Day as Ambala opens its latest store, serving handcrafted Indian mithai, savouries, and exciting prizes for early visitors.

Mithai fans in High Wycombe are in for a treat this Valentine’s Day when confectionery brand, Ambala, opens its brand-new store on Saturday 14th February 2026.

Visitors can indulge in Ambala’s signature handcrafted sweets and savouries, from festive favourites like barfi and gulab jamun to everyday treats such as samosas and ladoos, all made using traditional recipes.

Marking the occasion, the first 100 customers will receive a mystery envelope with a special prize, no purchase needed.

Plus, families can meet a surprise mascot, enjoy complimentary mithai and cake throughout the day, and even enter to win mithai for life.

Sukh Chamdal, CEO of Ambala, said: “We are thrilled to bring Ambala to High Wycombe. Our mission has always been to share the authentic taste of traditional Indian mithai, and we can’t wait to welcome the local community with our handmade sweets.”

Located at 132 Desborough Road, High Wycombe, HP11 2PU, Ambala is part of a network of over 20 stores nationwide, blending generations-old recipes with modernised packaging and a refreshed look.

For more information or to order online, visit Ambala’s website.

13 best riverside restaurants and pubs on the Thames – Bucks & Berks

Zoe Gater

food

Berkshire and Buckinghamshire are packed with riverside pubs perfect for lazy lunches and sunset drinks. Whether you’re arriving by foot, boat or bike, these waterside favourites offer front-row seats to some of the region’s most beautiful scenery.

From peaceful Thames-side terraces to tucked-away spots along the Kennet & Avon Canal, Bucks and Berks are brimming with gorgeous waterside venues.

Whether you’re planning a lazy afternoon drink, a scenic lunch stop on a country walk or a well-earned refreshment after time on the river, Round & About rounds up 13 of the best waterside pubs where you can soak up the sunshine and watch boats drift by.

1. The Swan at Pangbourne

A refurbished 17th-century Grad II-listed inn, The Swan is full of charm and character, featuring oak beams, open fires and a terrace overlooking the River Thames.

Perched right on the waterfront, the riverside pub offers boaters the chance to moor up and enjoy a pint on one of the most scenic stretches of the upper Thames.

2. The Boathouse at Boulters Lock, Maidenhead

Set beside the lock on its own island, this popular Thames-side spot offers front-row seats to the action on the river.

With plush sofas and expansive terraces, it’s a sought-after place to pause for drinks or lunch while watching boats pass through the lock.

3. The Compleat Angler, Marlow

One of the most famous Thames-side destinations, The Compleat Angler dates from the 17th century, but the current building is largely 19th century – and pairs refined food and drink with unbeatable views over Marlow Bridge.

You don’t have to be a hotel guest to dine here, but smart casual dress is encouraged. The venue is a classic choice for a special lunch or elegant evening by the water.

4. Roux at Skindles, Maidenhead

Set right on the Thames, Roux at Skindles brings elegant brasserie dining to one of the river’s most iconic addresses.

Expect refined British and French-inspired dishes, polished service and glorious water views from the terrace. Perfect for a long lunch or special-occasion supper just moments from Cliveden.

5. The Bounty, Bourne End

Relaxed and welcoming, The Bounty sits right on the Thames and is a favourite with locals, walkers and boaters.

Its riverside garden is a real draw when the sun is shining.

6. The Waterside Inn, Bray

A legendary riverside dining destination in Bray with three Michelin stars, where refined French-inspired cuisine and impeccable service meet picture-postcard views of the Thames.

Classic, elegant and ideal for a celebratory lunch or unforgettable dinner.

7. The Rowbarge, Woolhampton

A lively canal-side favourite on the Kennet & Avon Canal, The Rowbarge is an 18th-century pub known for its buzzing atmosphere, regular events and expansive outdoor space.

With its large garden set on the banks of the River Kennet – with access to the towpath and moorings – it’s a great place to enjoy sunny afternoons that drift into long summer evenings.

8. The Swan at Streatley

A relaxed yet stylish riverside pub and Coppa Club with a sunny terrace on the Thames, The Swan at Streatley serves seasonal European fare, pizzas and long lunches with river views.

Located in the Chiltern Hills, this spot is perfect for casual drinks, brunch or a laid-back dinner as boats drift by.

9. The Boatman, Windsor

With prime Thames-side views and Windsor Castle just upstream, The Boatman is a standout spot for a riverside pint.

Its spacious terrace makes it a top choice for summer drinks and people-watching – and you can enjoy waterside views all year round with a retractable roof to cater for the unpredictable British weather.

10. The Ferry, Cookham

A proper old-school river pub with moorings right outside, The Ferry is a much-loved stop on the Thames.

Its relaxed vibe and waterside seating make it perfect for an easy-going pint after a riverside stroll.

11. The Great House at Sonning

A charming riverside inn with a sunny terrace and classic British menus, The Great House at Sonning sits right on the Thames.

Perfect for lunch, drinks or a leisurely stop on a river walk, with moorings for boaters.

12. The Dundas Arms, Kintbury

Tucked away beside the Kennet & Avon Canal, The Dundas Arms is a postcard-perfect country pub surrounded by water, woodland and rolling countryside.

Popular with walkers and boaters, it’s ideal for a peaceful pint or hearty meal after exploring the towpath.

13. St George & Dragon, Wargrave

Nestled on the Thames in the charming village of Wargrave, the St George & Dragon combines traditional pub charm with riverside seating and scenic views.

It’s a great option for relaxed lunches or a sunny afternoon pint by the river.

Michelin Guide 2026: the South East’s starred and standout restaurants

Round & About

food

The Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2026 has been unveiled, with new stars, sustainability awards and Bib Gourmands shining a spotlight on standout restaurants across the South East.

A favourite for foodies around the world, the annual Michelin Guide Ceremony revealed Great Britain & Ireland’s top restaurants at the Convention Centre in Dublin on Monday 9th February 2026 – with some standout stars here, in the South East.

Round & About highlights everything from Michelin and Green Stars to Bib Gourmands, as well as those retaining their coveted distinctions.

New Michelin Star restaurants for 2026

And one new Michelin star has been awarded in the South East for 2026…

Translating to ‘tide’ in Portuguese, Maré by Rafael Cagali is the first restaurant in Brighton and Hove to hold a Michelin Star for almost 50 years.

From the acclaimed chef behind London’s Da Terra – which earned its second Michelin star in 2021 – the venue offers sleek, modern interiors and draws on influences from Cagali’s Brazilian roots combined with forays into the Mediterranean, Mexico and Japan.

New Green Star restaurants for 2026

But that’s not all, with a restaurant in West Sussex winning a Green Star, too.

Green Stars recognise restaurants at the forefront of sustainable gastronomy — combining high-quality cooking with outstanding environmental practices.

This includes sourcing local, seasonal produce; reducing waste; and implementing ethical, environmentally responsible operations. 

Housed in an 18th-century barn near Horsham, Knepp Wilding Kitchen has been recognised for “practices that are helping to shape the future of gastonomy”.

Located on the Knepp Estate, the venue’s ethos focuses on rewilding – letting nature nurture the land and encouraging biodiversity – which in turn drives the restaurant’s menus.

Each dish is an example of farm-to-table dining with meat coming from the surrounding estate, and vegetables are grown in the 2.5-acre Market Garden, which is certified organic.

New Bib Gourmand restaurants for 2026

Lastly are the Bib Gourmand’s. Named after Michelin’s Bibendum mascot, the awards were launched in 1997 to recognise restaurants outside the guide’s traditional fine-dining price bracket.

In 2019, this was specified as venues serving three courses for £30 or under, but Michelin now says there is “no set formula” to win a Bib.

Instead, restaurants must offer “good quality, good value cooking”.

New for 2026 is British Contemporary restaurant, The Oarsman, in Marlow.

A classic brick-and-timber exterior sets the tone for a market-town dining pub whose cooking delivers.

Starters span smoked salmon, The Oarsman fish soup, and warm roast roots; mains include Bavette steak, seared cod and Scottish sea trout; while those with a sweet tooth can choose from Basque cheesecake, warm ginger loaf and Ecclefechan tart.

Offering Modern British fare, The Yurt at Nicholsons, North Aston has also been awarded a Bib Gourmand.

Located inside a yurt at the Nicholsons Nursery and offering a unique dining experience, there’s a back-to-nature feel to the place, with some of the menu’s ingredients grown on site.

Working closely with local growers and artisans to offer fresh, sustainable produce, the dishes are packed with the bold, natural flavours – and both the pricing and the portions are generous.

Michelin Stars retained in 2026

Not forgetting those establishments which have retained their distinctions – a real demonstration of commitment and consistency.

In Berkshire, The Waterside Inn in Bray has retained its three Michelin Stars, while The Hind’s Head continues to hold one.

The Hand & Flowers in Marlow has remained at two stars.

The Nut Tree Inn at Murcott has retained its single star.

In Surrey, Latymer, Sorrel, Starling and The Tudor Pass have all retained one Michelin Star.

For more information, visit the Michelin Guide’s website.

Big Feastival reveals 2026 line-up

Round & About

food

Celebrating its 15th year in Oxfordshire, Big Feastival returns this August Bank Holiday with a diverse mix of music, food and family entertainment. From indie-rock favourites to award-winning chefs, find out what’s on the line-up in 2026.

Big Feastival is back in Oxfordshire in 2026, bringing celebrated musicians, Insta-worthy food and an abundance of family fun when it takes over Blur bassist, Alex James’ Farm from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026 – making for another cracking Bank Holiday weekend.

Who’s performing at Big Feastival 2026?

Bringing the energy, this year’s headliners include electronic music duo Basement Jaxx; The Streets, performing A Grand Don’t Come For Free in full for the first time; as well as indie pop band Bastille.

On the main stage, see drum and bass legends, RUDIM3NTAL; former Little Mix star PERRIE; alternative band, Doves, known for their soaring melodies; the powerful, piano-led pop of Freya Ridings; psychedelic rock and melodic pop outfit The Coral; as well as Ms Dynamite; comedy music trio, The Cuban Brothers; indie-rock favourites White Lies; The Ordinary Boys – and plenty more.

And it wouldn’t be Big Feastival without Barrioke, with EastEnders legend Shaun Williamson promising his trademark warmth and teasing banter.

Which chefs are at Big Feastival 2026?

And music’s not the only thing on the menu.

Award-winning chef, restaurateur and TV presenter Anna Haugh will headline the Big Kitchen stage. Chef patron of Myrtle Restaurant and The Wee Sister in London, Anna is a regular guest on Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch – in 2026, Anna is due to join MasterChef as a judge, alongside acclaimed food critic Grace Dent.  

Plus, culinary talent will be leading demonstrations and workshops, including Rachel Allen of Ireland’s world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School and social media sensation Poppy Cooks, whose no-nonsense potato recipes have earned her a huge online following.

Throughout the weekend, Sally Abé, Emily English, Amber Francis, Tom Barnes, Matblak, Meera Sodha, Nokx Majozi, Jon Watts – and more – will also be sharing their brilliant recipes and advice.

Festival goers can also roll up their sleeves at The Big Feastival cookery schools and masterclasses, then sit back and watch expert chefs tame the flames in the festival’s very own BBQ area, The Smokery.

What family-friendly events are on at Big Feastival 2026?

Big Feastival’s child and family-friendly entertainment promises to delight younger festivalgoers throughout the weekend, too.

Children’s entertainer MC Hammer and Nick Cope provide high-energy, music-filled storytelling; little ones can see Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse, show off dance moves at the K-Pop Demon Hunters Disco, enjoy circus-antics of The Flying Seagull Project, and get creative outside in nature with Lizzie’s Way Woodland Play.

Plenty more announcements are still to come.

Tickets for 2026 are on sale now.

For more information or to book, visit Big Feastival’s website.

Images © Matt Higgs

Batter the opposition in Reading’s 2026 pancake race

Round & About

food

Can your team take the Pancake Race title in 2026 and support Reading homelessness charity, Launchpad?

Launchpad’s flipping fantastic annual Pancake Race returns to Reading for its 28th year on Shrove Tuesday – 17th February 2026.

The challenge is simple: rally your most fearless, fancy dressed colleagues, grab a frying pan, and prove your team has what it takes to claim glory in the town centre…

Each year the costumes get wilder and more creative, with the popular event having seen everything from dinosaurs and astronauts to clowns, bananas and fast food icons racing through the town centre.

The stakes? Huge. The winners walk away with the people of Reading’s admiration, a fantastic prize donated by a local business and Launchpad’s coveted frying pan trophy.

Runners up won’t leave empty handed either, as there are prizes for second and third place, best team spirit, best fancy dress, and top fundraising team, too.

With the support of last year’s Pancake racers, more than 1,800 people facing housing or homelessness issues were helped last year.

Ready to compete? Here’s what you need:

• A team of four
• A brilliant fancy dress theme
• £150 team entry fee
• The courage to run, flip and battle it out against other teams

Last year’s fantastic champions, Davis Tate, have already signed up and are ready to defend their title bragging rights. Will they lift the title for a second time? Or will your team rise to the challenge and flip your way to first place?

Fiona Keyte, Launchpad Fundraising Manager, said: “Get ready Reading – you will not want to miss this cracking event! Whether you’re racing or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a sight to behold. The incredible fancy-dressed teams give it everything they’ve got, and over nearly three decades this event has raised thousands of pounds to support Launchpad’s work.

“We’re a local charity through and through, and the support we receive from Reading businesses at our very special race means so much!”

Be quick and sign up now — There are only 36 team places and entry fee is: £150 per team of four, first come, first served. You can secure your team’s place at: launchpadreading.enthuse.com/cf/pcr26.

Volunteers needed — Could you help with team registration, bucket collections and monitoring pancake flips. If you can help, email the team at: fundraising@launchpadreading.org.uk.

The Ultimate Harvest Party: Only at Hogs Back Brewery

Round & About

food

It’s party time at the Hogs Back Brewery in Tongham with three days to celebrate another successful hop harvest

Hop Harvest Party weekend, September 12th-14th, will be bigger and better than ever with three days of fun, music, food and of course, beer and more.

Kicking off the Hop Harvest Party Weekend on Friday is the sensational Hogs Back Roots live music session with headliners The Shires, the country music, singer-songwriter duo. They are supported by Bryony Dunn and The Forest – expect “alt folk with hard edges, or indie rock with a soft centre” and local singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Emma Stevens with her catchy pop melodies, fused with folk and a touch of country.

Saturday brings the Hop Harvest Festival with music from Chilli Fighters, Noel Fitzpatrick Band, The Tarantinos, The Cinelli Brothers, Katy Hurt, Stop Thinking and Festival MC stand up comedian Patrick Monahan.

The three-day party winds down with a more relaxed family-friendly day with music from Ed Sheeran Experience, John Wilson Band and Hannah Dorman. The Kids Zone will be bigger and better than ever, with loads of fun for all the family.

The Hogs Back Bar will be serving a full range of Hogs Back and One Planet beers, including the legendary Tongham TEA, Hogstar Lager and Alcohol Free Little Swine Pale Ale, plus wine, gin and soft drinks. Look out for the pulled pork, BBQ, pizzas and much more. Vegan and gluten free options available.

For tickets for any of these great days visit here.

To read more about the surrey area, click here.

Chef John’s Culinary Magic at The Greyhound Inn

Round & About

food

We chat to chef John Harrison who now leads the kitchen team at The Greyhound Inn in Letcombe Regis

Chef John: A Culinary Journey from Lancashire to The Greyhound Inn

John, a classically trained chef, moved from Preston in Lancashire to London in 2003. He began his apprenticeship at the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Restaurant, kickstarting his culinary career.

A Passion for Fine Dining and Michelin Stars

After gaining valuable experience in various fine dining venues, John honed his skills at Michelin-starred Paul Heathcote at Longridge. Later, he joined Marco Pierre White’s pub group in Oxford, followed by a Head Chef position at Newbury’s Manor House Hotel. There, he earned their second AA Rosette. After another time in London, John returned to Newbury in 2019, settling with his young family.

Simplicity, Flavour, and Tradition

“I have fond memories of my Grandma’s weekly baking: jam tarts, butter pies, and Eccles cakes,” says John. “Growing up, I admired Gary Rhodes and Marco Pierre White. Their ability to create dishes bursting with simple yet massive flavours is something I’ve always tried to replicate.”

With two AA Rosettes and an entry in the Good Food Guide, John’s cooking continues to attract attention. The Greyhound Inn, a charming pub-with-rooms, has earned a reputation for outstanding food and friendly service.

The Greyhound Inn: A Local Gem

In 2015, the Greyhound Inn reopened as a free house after being lovingly restored by Catriona Galbraith and Martyn Reed. The Grade II-listed building, along with its idyllic garden, is perfect for al fresco dining.

“I feature heritage tomatoes in my summer menus, alongside peaches and cherries,” John explains. “The oven-roasted chicken breast with chicken fat mash, slow-cooked leek, and onion is one dish I’m especially proud of. It’s the first dish I cooked here, and over time, I’ve perfected it.”

Craft Ales and Seasonal Dishes

The Greyhound Inn also offers four rotating real ales, sourced from the UK’s finest breweries. With local favourites like Butts, Ramsbury, and Little Ox, as well as seasonal ales, there’s always something new to try. The pub has won a local CAMRA award for five consecutive years, a testament to its dedication to quality brews.

John’s Guilty Pleasures and Memorable Meals

John confesses, “My guilty pleasure? Henderson Sauce on everything! We even gave it as a party favour at our wedding.” When recalling his most memorable meal, John fondly remembers dining at Trinity in Clapham: “Adam Byatt’s restaurant is phenomenal. Like Marco and Gary, he makes food taste incredible with simplicity.”

Book online and click here, pop by or call 01235 771969.

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