As the season changes and the air grows cooler, there is no finer place to settle in for a Sunday roast than The Cock Hitchin. Housed within a beautifully restored 450-year-old Grade II Listed coaching inn, it has brought the warmth of this beautiful and historic building back to life. Think fine dining meets fireside comfort.
The dishes are crafted beautifully, and the service feels as genuine as it is refined. The team has created a space that feels wonderfully welcoming. This is the kind of synergy that emerges when a team genuinely loves what they do.
The building itself is a gem, its careful restoration has honoured centuries of character while introducing a quietly sophisticated interior. With an elegant bar and tastefully designed dining spaces, the team at The Cock Hitchin have managed to let history breathe alongside contemporary comfort.
Don’t be surprised if, while perusing the menu, you find yourself glancing at what’s landing on your neighbours’ table. There’s no food envy here, there is only friendly research for what can be enjoyed on your next visit.
The food is genuinely remarkable, led by Head Chef Alex Corley, formerly of Thompson in St Albans and Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill. Corley heads a top kitchen team here at The Cock Hitchin, crafting dishes that combine technical precision with delicious flavours. You’ll want to share, of course… but good luck holding back on another forkful.
The menu is ingredient-led, rooted in British tradition, and it’s no surprise it’s already drawing attention from both foodies and chefs alike. While enjoying the most delightful veg from the roast, you may end up in a discussion with the team about the subtle new touches that have been introduced. The team openly spoke about the food, giving you a glimpse into Corley’s creations and the thoughts behind each dish.
Of course, you can simply tuck in and enjoy, no questions asked. No one will judge. And when it comes to desserts, the answer is always yes when visiting The Cock Hitchin. The honey-roasted peaches with peach sorbet, caramelised white chocolate, and soft meringue are quite literally irresistible. Equally divine is the fig leaf frozen custard, served with fresh figs and port-soaked figs. Beautiful and perfectly poised.
The pub also boasts an impressive wine selection, and with Emily-Jane on hand to guide your choices, from vintage bottles to coravin options, you’re in expert hands. There’s also a lovely cocktail menu for those in the mood for something a little lighter or a touch more adventurous.
It’s the people behind the scenes, in the kitchen and front of house, who add to the magic of The Cock Hitchin. Director Adam Msetfi welcomes you to every type of occasion — whether you’re popping in for a leisurely lunch, reserving a table, or planning a private dining experience or bespoke event. The team celebrates the simple joy of sharing truly great food.
It’s well worth the gentle thirty-minute trip from London. The Cock Hitchin is a new destination for food lovers. This is a gastropub where both you and your taste buds are celebrated, and if you end up arguing over who gets the last mouthful… a little advice, order both.
8 High St, Hitchin SG5 1BH
