The Grand Tour aficionados might fancy themselves knowledgeable about James May, yet few may be aware that he's the proud part-owner of a delightful countryside tavern. Tucked away in Wiltshire, The Royal Oak is nothing short of a local sensation.
At 61, May is most recognised for his exploits on Amazon Prime's The Grand Tour, bantering with co-hosts Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond, with whom he famously hosted BBC One's Top Gear. But away from the camera lights, he holds the title of publican, overseeing the scenic pub near the charming village of Swallowcliffe.
Landlord Chris Byett undertook an ambitious rejuvenation about four years ago, turning this once run-down establishment into something quite marvellous, all thanks to a serious cash injection.
This major revamp featured the creation of an oak-finished room, swanky kitchen, modernised toilet facilities, and six cosy guest rooms upstairs.
Talking to WiltshireLive, Christ expressed his pride, saying: "I think we've done a good job, I think the staff are a lot stronger and we have a great kitchen team headed by Jonny Sutcliffe who was the previous head chef and the food has always been well respected."
With the 2020 lockdown as backdrop, Chris and James' takeover of The Royal Oak has turned heads worldwide, drawing curiosity-seekers from the USA to Asiaas far-flung regions where May and his Top Gear cronies once filmed their antics.
The pub accounts manager, Jamie, spilled the beans on their international appeal, sharing that tourists from Canada, America and Singapore have been frequenting their establishment in recent weeks, reports the Express.
Chris chimed in to highlight the unique nature of their business amidst the pandemic, saying: "The nature of our businesses hasn't been massively affected by Covid because we're not a boozer, we don't have people all rammed together."
He further explained their approach to avoiding disappointment due to high demand, stating: "We've very much got a book-first culture, because it's a popular place and we don't want to disappoint people so we do encourage bookings."
The Royal Oak's Menu Delights
Local resident and two-decade regular Tim Razzle also told the publication that The Royal Oak's cheese souffle is an absolute must-try, dubbing it the "most delicious" thing on the menu.
Content that The Royal Oak has undergone significant improvements yet retained its essential allure over the years, Tim shared his sentiments about the importance of the establishment in village life.
He said: "In the modern world, villages require a pub, it is their only commercial operation and social centre and that's what this is."
A Cosy Pub with a Touch of Elegance
The Royal Oak itself is as cosy as they come, with its interiors washed in natural light and wooden decor lending it an earthy charm. Quirky antique collectables and vintage volumes grace the shelves, while the walls are adorned with artwork crafted by Elaine Heseltine Carp, a talented local artist.
They even tempt with the promise of blissful summer evenings in their garden The Royal Oak seems to know exactly how to conjure up an inviting scene for a cocktail or two under the sun.
A Perfect Blend of Cosiness and Sophistication
The Royal Oak Inn boasts a spacious conservatory oak room that seamlessly connects to a picturesque garden, where vibrant flowers thrive and a majestic tree takes centre stage. The recent addition of bespoke furniture to both the front and back areas has proven a resounding success, with patrons relishing cocktails on warm summer evenings.
The exquisite furniture, expertly crafted by the esteemed Mathew Burt from Hindon near Salisbury, lends an air of sophistication to the establishment. Chris, the pub's owner, expressed his pleasure in collaborating with Mathew, saying it had been "a pleasure to be associated with Mathew".
The Royal Oak Inn is located at Swallowcliffe, Salisbury, SP3 5PA. Their highly anticipated Autumn tasting menu will launch on Thursday, September 26, with limited spaces available. To secure a booking, please call 01747 870211.
