The cosiest and most cockle-warming roasts in our neck of the woods
The Bank Tavern, John Street, Bristol
On weekdays, the tiny 19th-century Bank Tavern contains a handful of regulars. Come Sunday, it transforms. Crowned the best UK roast by tTe Observer in 2019, the waiting list for this feast has stretched up to four years. Worth the hype? Absolutely. Set your alarms: bookings for 2026 go live on New Year’s Day.
The Pony, Moorledge Road, Chew Magna
Spillages at The Pony are highly likely. You’ll be so busy gazing at the rolling hills and exquisite garden from panoramic windows that it’s possible you’ll miss your mouth entirely. But no matter – there’s plenty more where that came from; almost everything on your plate is grown mere metres away.
Castle Farm Midford, Midford Road, Bath
Roasts hit differently after a good countryside stomp – a proper boot-squelching, scarf-wrapped, leaf-rustling walk. If your adventures should lead you to the door of Castle Farm, you’re a lucky traveller indeed. This is a Goldilocks roast: everything is just right. Blushing meat, giant Yorkshires and vibrant vegetables served family-style.
Beckford Canteen, Bartlett Street, Bath
Don’t believe a roast dinner can be refined and elegant? You haven’t been to Beckford Canteen. There’s absolutely no day of resting here – if anything, the Michelin inspector’s favourite only ups the ante come the end of the week. The golden confit potatoes alone are worth the treat-yourself pricing.
Pasture, Portwall Lane, Redcliffe
For some, the roast dinner is made in the veg; al dente honey-glazed carrots or sharp cauliflower cheese. For others, it’s the gravy – bottomless and thick. Some would go to war over the Yorkshire pudding. For those who believe it’s all about the meat, the answer is Pasture.
The Bell and Crown, New Road, Zeals
Some phrases just make your heart sing – ‘bottomless gravy’ is one. Combine it with ‘as many Yorkies as you like’ and ‘more spuds than you can shake your pork and sage stuffing at,’ and I’m tripping over myself to book.
The Woolpack Inn, Slad Road, near Stroud
The Woolpack is the pub dreams are made of: humming open fires, beer tankards lining the walls and food that will reduce you to happy tears. Go for the roast, stay until you’re forcibly evicted.
