Lockdown relaxation - Our local drinking and dining recommendations - Part 2

Following on from our Oxford recommendations we are this week taking our focus to South Oxfordshire. To follow are three of our local pub and restaurant recommendations, stretching from cosy hidden country pubs to outdoor riverside dining. 

EYSTON ARMS, EAST HENDRED 

East Hendred is one of our favourite South Oxfordshire villages. It brims with history and numerous fine houses. The Eyston Arms takes centre stage in the oldest part of the village. The food is excellent and the balance between cozy 'local' and smart restaurant has been brilliantly achieved. The Eyston Arms also specialise in events catering for up to 250 people with space for marquees. A summer evening stroll around East Hendred followed by a drink at the Wheatsheaf Inn and dinner at the Eyston Arms is an experience many will savour, particularly so this summer! 

01235 833320 / www.eystonarms.co.uk / @the.eyston.arms 

BEETLE & WEDGE, MOULSFORD 

A short drive from Wallingford a tiny lane leads from the main road to this recently refurbished former boat house. Large windows overlook a stunning rural section of the River Thames. If the weather is kind there is a large outdoor terrace right on the waters edge. Not only do the Beetle & Wedge serve excellent delicious food but boat hire is also available offering numerous options for a day on the river. Accommodation is also available in a neighbouring cottage. Parking can be tight so worth considering parking elsewhere and taxiing (road or water!) to the door in style. 

01491 651 381 / www.beetleandwedge.co.uk / @beetleandwedgeboathouse 

HOME SWEET HOME, ROKE 

Now this really is a hidden gem! The small hamlet of Roke is home to this delightful country pub. A large double sided log fire burns year round welcoming guests as they step in. There is a pretty front garden, a fantastic afternoon sun trap, past which horses regularly clip clop along the quiet country lane. Not the sort of pub you would ever find 'in passing' which makes it something of a local hidden secret. The service is friendly and informal and the food is seasonal, hearty and consistently tasty. Events are regularly hosted including 'Roke Fest' an annual local ale and music mini festival. 

01491 838249 / www.hshroke.pub / @hshroke 

Coming up next week in part three we will reveal our top three Cotswold recommendations.