The best restaurants serving British food in South East

We came here for Mother’s Day afternoon tea after we had visited a few weeks back. Booked in advance and was made aware of what was included and costing. Upon arrival they were very busy but our table was reserved and so nicely presented. Crisp white table clothes with a flower vase of daffodils. We are escorted to our table and had our drinks order taken. Even though they were really busy the drinks came out in a timely manner. We were all presented with a free glass of Prosecco which was a really lovely touch. The afternoon tea itself was exquisite. 4 different types of sandwiches each, homemade sausage rolls, homemade fruit and plain scones so we had 2 scones each served with cream and jam, and wow the cakes! Chocolate sponge with gold edible leaf on top, and vanilla sponge with edible flowers, and lemon compote type desert with fruit topping along with delicious little macaroons. It was presented on 3 tiers and garnished with fresh cucumber and strawberries and even had the touch of a Mother’s Day cake toppers. We have had many an afternoon tea as a family but honestly this best them all. Everything was handmade. Every sandwich, sausage roll, scones and cakes. You can honestly tell the difference. There was another family having afternoon also and over hers they had a dairy free and gluten free afternoon tea so they can obviously cater for dietary requirements too. There was so much love and care taken to ensure we had a lovely day. I honestly can’t recommend them enough.

I’ve been coming here a couple of times a year for almost 15 years, only on Tuesdays for their folk sessions. The pub is under new management and I had a nice chat with one of the new licensees. Tonight was a bit quiet but it will be lively come mayday weekend. Only two ales on tonight (none on form…) and the folk clientele seem to be getting older by the year. Cask now £5.60. Bottles at decent price point.

Tuvimos una excelente comida en el pub Balmoral. La comida era genial, y el servicio era excelente a pesar del hecho de que estaba muy ocupado. Un agradecimiento especial a nuestra camarera Donna, que era una estrella. Stewart y Carol

Two large cod’s, one regular chips ? Mr Fish Cranfield £22 odd Rumbles Marston £22 odd Moores £29.70 ……… hadn’t been for six years and it’s likely to be another six years !! Update I suggest you check with the staff working today, Monday 21/04 I handed over 2 x £20 when asked for I think £29.70 and received £10 something ………. also I was told when I questioned the cost, the large cod’s were £13.50 each and chips £3.70 ………. Bank Holiday staff, Bank Holiday pricing ? ………. a nice try at ripping someone off and I certainly won’t be returning !! Further update A thought ! You advised that my prices are wrong …….. I know what I paid ! The lack of ‘walk in’ customers was noticeable ……… only Deliveroo types on a Bank Holiday ? Was I (deliberately) charged the App price ? Who pockets the difference ? Expensive for me at the time and well, the number of people my mate has told !!!!

Lovely place within walking distance of the harbour. We had the Sunday roast and the food was excellent and James was the perfect host. We will be back.

Very nice beverages, good price and they do good all day long!

Family get together,,food was great and the staff very helpful and polite.

Great lunch yesterday afternoon 11th may 2025 Tina served me, everything was spot on plus she was very helpful and polite would definitely recommend

Lovely pub, friendly staff. Jacket potato was delicious.

I'd not been aware of Bill's as I only visi infrequently. We had the set lunch menu. 2 courses for £17.50. It was very good value. Service was good too. Charley was excellent

Great pub good food, good real ale.

Enjoyed a visit here. Sat outside in the sun as they have great outdoor seating area. Tasty breakfast bap served with lots of bacon and egg with some crisps! £18 for two baps and 2 coffees. A sausage for the dog which was a left over cold sausage was an extra £1.50 - at other cafes they normally give you this, so was a bit taken back I had to pay extra for this!!

One of those Friday night "what to do for tea" moments. My wife suggested the Horse and Jockey. Welcome was warm, service from Ashley and Stella, was in fact Stella!! So lovely. The food was really nice and reasonably priced. We will definitely return.

The Wellington Arms is a beautiful venue with a wonderful rustic feel. All the staff are warm and welcoming. The vibes were great. Beautiful pub garden. Food 10/10 Venue 10/10 Value 10/10 Atmosphere 10/10 Customer Service 10/10 All the little details and personal touches we were able to add made the day so perfect. They went above and beyond to make sure that I had everything I wanted for our day. Thanks again to everyone at The Wellington Arms

My friend and I shared a day out on Easter Monday. The countryside was at its most glorious, flowers in abundance everywhere. We had booked tickets for the Watercress Line, but allowed time for lunch. Although I hadn't reserved a table, we were fortunate to be accommodated by friendly staff, who could not have been more polite and attentive. The setting is delightful, the food was excellent, accompanied by a pint of local ale. Highly recommended as a relaxing day out.