If you enjoy discovering hidden gems, then the Peacock Inn in Chelsworth is definitely your kind of place. Nestled in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, surrounded by fresh streams and meadows dotted with wild flowers, this establishment has been here since the 14th century.
The grade II listed building is home to one of the best gastro pubs in East Anglia. In fact, earlier this year, it earned a coveted Bib Gourmand and is included in the Michelin Guide – the only spot in the immediate area to be listed.
So understandably, I was very curious to find out first person why this little place is growing such a gastronomic reputation.
For starters, the Peacock Inn is postcard pretty. The ancient building has been preserved with the outmost care and maintains the charm of a historic Suffolk inn. The walls are a mix of soft-painted panels and original brickwork, contributing to a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. Exposed timber beans, low ceiling and open fireplaces add to the sense of comfort, while traditional furniture – solid wood tables and classic chairs – complements the period setting. Subtle lighting, sometimes from old-style sconces or candlelight, enhances the relaxed and slightly nostalgic mood. Décor tends to be understated, letting the character of the building shine through.
During the day, natural light filters through the windows of The Peacock Inn, landing on little corners and bringing them to life.
The team is as lovely as the atmosphere. Led by General Manager, Jack Butler, every member of staff makes sure guests feel welcomed and looked after from the moment they step through the door. At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Sam Clover, who has worked in restaurants as famed as the Michelin starred Pied à Terre in London.
Sam’s cooking style focuses on creating rich, flavourful dishes that blend modern creativity with classic techniques. He uses seasonal and local ingredients as much as he can. Good examples are the famous Pump Street chocolate (made in Woodbridge, less than 30 miles from Cheslworth) Suffolk) for his wonderful chocolate mousse and Fern Farm Dairy (a 15-min drive from the Inn), home to the Suffolk brie-style cheese, Baron Bigod.
A special interest of his is fermentation, the secrets of which he learnt while working with three times Michelin star, Chef Herbert Berger, at One Lombard Street. An example of the fruit of this love is his miso butter, which tastes like heaven spread on his homemade warm sourdough bread.
The menu at The Peacock Inn includes classic dishes such as scotch eggs, pies and fish & chips with a creative twist and cooked to perfection. They also offer a tasting menu, which has become a favourite among guests.
Chef Sam Clover unleashes his creativity at The Peacock Inn, with an award-winning menu that is attracting guests from all corners of the country.
For those who prefer higher refinement, starters such as the wild mushroom and egg yolk raviolo with cep vinaigrette, wilted spinach and mushroom sauce will certainly hit the spot. The silky pocket of pasta bursts with earthy mushrooms and golden yolk, lifted by the tanginess of the vinaigrette and a sauce full of woodland warmth.
A main as elegant as it gets is their roasted fillet of halibut with courgettes, sour fennel, sweet red pepper, saffron potatoes, brown shrimp and langoustine bisque. A perfectly crispy skin covers a fillet of delicate, flaky fish flesh, complemented by the texture of the vegetables, while the seafood elements adding depth, balance, and a touch of coastal vibrancy.
A dessert you can’t miss is the saffron custard flan with hibiscus, poached rhubarb, cardamom ice cream and pistachio. A delightful combination of sweet and sour flavours with a comforting silky texture, which contrast beautifully with the crunchy, nutty pistachio. Finally, the fragrance of cardamom envelopes the dish in a hug of gentle spice.
As using seasonal ingredients is such a priority for Sam, the menu changes quite often, so if as I suspect, the above is making you salivate, I wouldn’t take too long to book my visit. And worry not about getting back home, The Peacock Inn offers accommodation above the restaurant and has a few more rooms adjacent to the pub, with views to the garden.
Author: Julia Pasarón
For mid-week stays, The Peacock Inn now offers a special ‘Dinner, Bed & Breakfast’ package, priced at £225 per person on Wednesdays and Thursdays; and £240 per person on Fridays and Saturdays.
Looking for more gastronomic experiences? You may like Smith & Wollensky London, NIJŪ Mayfair or Caviar Kaspia London.
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