What's more idyllic than a charming country pub? Especially one with an award from the The National Pub and Bar Awards tucked firmly under its belt, a menu of seasonal dishes that support local farmers and plenty of design flair to boot. Well, that's The Cricketers on the Green, a gorgeously authentic, community-spirited pub in Pirbright, near Guildford and Woking in Surrey.
There's plenty to do here, so we'll jump straight in with The Yurt Cafe. If you fancy a nibble and cuppa in the daytime, this intimate cafe is situated within a wooden-laced yurt, complete with rustic furnishings and fairy lights. Simply turn up, as reservations aren't required and, if you're looking for somewhere to host your next gathering, this space is also available for private hire.
Inside the main pub, you'll find the central dining room which has a selection of different seating and plenty of design touches that will inspire and delight. The Pig Shed is the buzzy heart, with a barn-style roof, floral wallpaper and banquette seating, ideal for large groups. While, slightly seperate is The Old Block which is perfect for smaller meet ups or two or three, with more private tables and beautiful, antique and vintage furniture.
Both areas use the same menu selection with options for a la carte, fixed price, afternoon tea and Sunday lunch. Dishes change depending on the seasons but you can always expect a mix of smaller, sharing plates like Devilled chestnut mushrooms on toast with rainbow chard alongside buttered asparagus spears with fresh Burrata and garden herb salsa.
Then, there's the Robata grill where your choice of cut is cooked over an open fire of hot coals, or take a look at the mains with the likes of braised Norfolk chicken and bacon pot pie, alongside confit belly of English Pork and plates inspired by the garden, too, like spring vegetable and wild garlic risotto.