A cosy inn, with parts dating back to the 17th Century can be found in the village of Clanfield, nestled in the always pretty Cotswolds. The Double Red Duke’s signature red striped umbrellas dot around the front terrace which is open for summer. A drinks bar serving signature and classic cocktails is ready and waiting for you. I tried the Basil & Pepper - a gin based drink that I found refreshing and light. My sister had the Barbeque Pineapple - a smoky mix of Mezcal, pineapple and lime.
We were here as guests to celebrate the opening of the sun terrace and our visit did indeed coincide with lovely weather, it’s a real pleasure to sit, sip and try a bar snack or two - I think I have told anyone who will listen to go just for the Crispy Dublin Bay Scampi with Lemon Mayonnaise. I never thought I would rave about scampi but there was just something so good about this infact I think it’s because it wasn’t like any scampi I’ve ever had before - it was really delicious.
Inside there are several adjoining rooms for a night cap, book reading or hiring for private dining. We enjoyed Sunday roast in the pub space, it’s light filled with a rustic chic vibe. If you are feeling fancy you can book a seat at the chef’s table and watch your food being made on the open fires - there’s no gas at the Double Red Duke. The menus are seasonal, using as much local and British produce as possible and you can really see and taste the quality of the ingredients. Everything we tried was really good - the scampi I may not have mentioned it but it was outstanding.
There’s an onsite spa, the treatments sound blissful, something for us to try on another visit but I loved the shepherds hut treatment room. Our room was large, spacious with a roll top bath. I don’t know if it’s always so quiet at night but as a really light sleeper, I often sleep badly when I stay away no matter how lovely the rooms are just because anything and everything wakes me. I honestly had the best nights sleep and I didn’t hear anything.
I always if I can, love to have a peek at the Chefs at work which anyone can enjoy if you book a seat at the Chefs table.
Thank you very much for having us x