The Brampton Mill – Brampton, Huntingdon (UK)

The Brampton Mill, near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, underwent a stunning refurbishment and re-opened on 16 February 2019. I was delighted to be invited to their press night for an exclusive first look a few days before their big re-opening. The invitation included dinner and drinks for 4 people so I brought along Paulo and our good friends Peter and Jenni.

I had visited The Brampton Mill in the past and it was lovely. Located down Bromholme Lane with its riverside views by the River Great Ouse, extensive garden and cosy seating areas, this 500-year-old pub was already impressive. However, the significant investment by Mitchells & Butlers – one of the largest operators of pubs, bars and restaurants in the UK – has given their Premium Country Pub a more contemporary look and feel whilst still maintaining its traditional features, like the fully functioning water wheel. It really is a sight to behold!

The whole place is now more modern, open and stylish. It was dark when we arrived so I couldn’t see the garden area and outdoor bar but they have added new furniture. The Brampton Mill have kindly provided some daytime photos.

Photo by The Brampton Mill

Photo by The Brampton Mill

Photo by The Brampton Mill

As soon as we stepped in, we were wowed by the gorgeous makeover. What a difference! We were shown to the bar for pre-dinner drinks and canapés. For the event, they had a gin station with a large selection of garnishes to personalise our G&Ts.

Photo by The Brampton Mill

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The Cock – Hemingford Grey, Cambridgeshire (UK)

A few months ago, I was kindly invited to sample The Cock’s new à la carte starters and mains menu, designed by talented head chef Wil Findlay. I was seriously impressed and raved all about it here. I also vowed to return and experience the restaurant as a customer. I had that opportunity on Monday!

The Cock sign

The Cock side sign

The Cock, which is one of the restaurants operated by Cambscuisine, isn’t one of their Cambridge locations. It’s located in the picturesque village of Hemingford Grey in Cambridgeshire (out Huntingdon way) and it is definitely worth the drive. Its focus is on high end casual dining, with no sign of pretentiousness. Reservations are strongly recommended as The Cock has been garnering rave reviews and has even been named the 2015 Cambridgeshire Dining Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide.

Collage The Cock

Paulo and I arrived 10 minutes before the restaurant opened at 6:30pm for dinner so we were able to enjoy a drink in the cosy pub, which has a separate entrance but still connected inside for staff to make their way from one section to another. The Cock’s building dates back to the 17th century so some parts have a quirky layout but it is all quite charming.

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