The Fox & Grapes

Wimbledon's only independent local is a three-parter, combining traditional pub warmth, elevated gastronomy and boutique lodging just next to the Royal Wimbledon Golf Club.

The Fox & Grapes is a former coaching inn on the edge of Wimbledon Common, set at a prime location for strolling around the park and exploring Wimbledon Village. The cosy and unpretentious main bar serves freshly poured craft beers and lagers, including brews from the local Wimbledon Brewery. The sizeable international wine list includes bottles from around the world, and the bartenders are deft hands at wielding the cocktail mixer as well.

Dining at this upmarket establishment is its own delight, thanks to Michelin-starred TV chef Paul Merrett overseeing the menu and merging his fine dining expertise with the laidback setting of a classic British gastropub. The dining room is split by a grand central bar, resulting in a large open space with an open kitchen and a beamed ceiling on one side, and a more intimate, country-style space on the other.

Merrett is diligent in securing sustainable, quality produce and putting it to good use in elevated takes on British pub staples, adding his trademark Asian twists. The menu includes comforting favourites such as ale-battered fish 'n' chips or a cheeseburger, along with seasonal mains such as roasted wild stone bass with coco beans, girolles, shallot puree and chargrilled baby leek, or autumn squash tagine with pine nut & preserved lemon couscous, coriander & coconut yogurt and chargrilled pitta bread. A selection of rare breed cuts is available as well.

The Fox & Grapes also serves as boutique hotel with three luxurious en-suite rooms, fitted with queen-sized beds, free WiFi and a flat-screen TV. The rate includes a continental breakfast basket.