The Stag & Huntsman, Buckinghamshire Hotel

Buckinghamshire, England

Nestled in the Chiltern Hills, this traditional inn, with its rich history and charming architecture, is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination in its own right.

Part of the Culden Faw Estate in the Buckinghamshire village of Hambleden – think timber-framing, brick and flints – The Stag & Huntsman boasts nine traditional but elegant ensuite bedrooms and two self-catering country cottages.

Hambleden is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a popular destination for walkers and film crews - Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Nanny McPhee are among the films shot there. But it’s not just the charm that brings guest back – it’s also the pub’s cuisine. Focusing on a seasonal menu, the aim is to serve the best food and drink in a casual, friendly environment without pretention - along the lines of gin-cured chalk stream trout, Rebellion beer (from a microbrewery in nearby Marlow Bottom) battered haddock or venison steak ciabatta.

Open for breakfast as well as lunch and dinner (except Sunday evening), enjoy a great escape only 65km from London – yet in a countryside setting that feels like it’s a world away from helter- skelter life in the city. Doubles from £130.

Words by Dominic Hart.

This Article was taken from the October 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.