The picture-perfect village of Church Enstone is cocooned by rolling emerald countryside and inside features a smattering of chocolate-box cottages.
In the heart of this charming village is a stunning 17th century Cotswold stone inn, The Crown at Church Enstone. Owned by famed local artist, George Irvine and his wife Victoria who bought the freehold village inn recently, it has since undergone a sensitively renovation, maintaining all of its character whilst adding a contemporary touch.
It features an abundance of original features, such as oak beams, flagstone floods and a working Inglenook fireplace. As you would expect, keeping in mind who owns the property, the walls heave with beautiful vibrant original artwork by George Irvine and other beloved local artists.
Food is very much at the heart of The Crown. It’s menu features seasonal contemporary British classics and champions produce from nearby artisanal producers, farms and estates. Keeping it close to home, the fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers are grown in George and Victoria Irvine’s own garden.
For dinner, opt to sit in the sun-soaked conservatory overlooking the pretty garden. Start with the box baked Camembert with confit garlic, rosemary, honey and truffle oil accompanied by toasted bread.
For your official starter, opt for the vibrant Beetroot Ravioli with goats cheese, toasted pine nuts and an earthy yet sweet beetroot pesto.
For the main event there are two standout dishes, a fragrant baked King Prawn Tagine with a zesty lime yoghurt and cous-cous and a class 8oz juicy Ribeye Steak complete with cherry tomatoes, field mushroom, chunky chips and a golden bearnaise sauce.
You simply can’t visit The Crown at Church Enstone without trying one of their famous homemade puddings. The Sticky Toffee Pudding oozing with toffee sauce and cool vanilla ice cream was divine but the Iced Wilcote Honey and Nougatine Parfait with strawberries was also absolutely heavenly.
Although Church Enstone is a hidden gem in the Oxfordshire countryside, it isn’t far from some of the most iconic towns and villages, such as Chipping Norton, Woodstock and Kingham. You will find a thriving community, stunning architecture and glorious food at every turn.
Soho Farmhouse, Oxford and Bicester Village are just a stones throw away. Don’t forget to visit one of the most beautiful places in the country, the majestic Blenheim Palace. There is so much to see and do nearby that you truly get the best of both worlds.
Mill Ln, Church Enstone, Chipping Norton OX7 4NN
01608 677262
