A restaurant within an historic centuries-old coaching inn that struggled after the pandemic has been brought back to life following a takeover. Oak at the Saracens Head has opened serving modern British dishes with a twist such as harissa monkfish, carrot bhaji burger and Korean fried chicken schnitzel.
The 40-seater restaurant, lounge, bar and function room are now under the ownership of Josh Perry and Dave Newby, who both have full time careers outside hospitality but have previous experience of running pubs. The hotel side of the business, still being run by David Donegan as a separate entity, is famous for its royal links.
Charles I spent his last night of freedom there before his capture and execution in 1647. The ambassador to the French King Louis III also stayed there as did the poet Lord Byron and the writer Charles Dickens.
