Michelin Pub of the Year revealed as ‘Great Train Robbery’ pub
The 2018 edition lists 470 pubs, 27 of which are new entries, which range from cosy and characterful country inns to modern and chic urban pubs.
The Pointer in Brill is an 18th century red-brick inn has character with a restaurant and several lounges with open fires alongside a garden and terrace.
Michelin Eating Out in Pubs guide editor Rebecca Burr said: “Not only is it a delightful place but it is exceedingly well run by a young, personable team.
“They really pay attention to detail and nothing is ever too much trouble for them.”
Rare breed
The pub’s owners David and Fiona Howden also have a 240-acre farm where they raise rare breed cattle and pigs.
The pub’s adjoining butcher’s shop sells their meats, which are also used in the pub kitchen, along with about 70 other organic ingredients.
Burr added: “The frequently changing à la carte menu offers a good range of modern dishes. Presentation is first rate – refinement and precision are there in equal measure, and much use is made of organic ingredients from their farm.”
Sourdough bread arrives in a paper bag and everything is made on-site, from the butter to the petits fours. The three-course weekday lunch represents great value, according to the guide.
Great Train Robbery
Four bedrooms are opposite the pub. Two have slipper baths and all have Hypno beds, Nespresso machines, bathrobes and home-baked shortbread.
The pub even comes with local folklore as it is thought that the Great Train Robbery was planned there and that the stolen money was divided up there too.
The Pointer was also named as one of the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs ‘Ones to Watch’.
Meanwhile, in this year’s Michelin Guide, a number of pubs from across the country, including one Top 50 Gastropub, received Bib Gourmands.
Also, there are now 17 pubs nationwide flying the coveted Michelin star flag, showcasing the culinary talent and skill on offer in kitchens that go against the old pub stereotype of dodgy cheese sandwiches and cheap bar snacks.
