Fox & Hounds

This imposing 17th-century building stands opposite the green in the centre of Exton, a charming village with its many stone and thatched cottages. Barnsdale Gardens and the amenities of Rutland Water are not far away. At the rear of the pub is a large walled garden, which makes a perfect setting for an al fresco meal or a marquee reception. The pub has a reputation for good food and hospitality, and is an ideal stopping-off point for those making the most of the many good walks in the surrounding area. Its menu is the work of Italian chef/proprietor Valter Floris and his team, and combines the best of traditional English and Italian cuisine. There is an impressive list of over 25 authentic, thin-crust pizzas (for evenings only), which are certainly not on the small side. The 'casual lunch' lunch menu features panini, salads, traditional sandwiches and filled ciabattas, while the main menu opens with the likes of Scottish salmon with red onions, capers and cream cheese; asparagus and gruyere tart on a bed of salad drizzled with extra virgin olive oil; and paté with chutney. Main dishes are pan-fried lambs' liver and bacon with onion gravy and creamy mashed potato; or perhaps linguini with jumbo prawns and Scottish smoked salmon in a garlic cream sauce. There is also a regularly changing menu of desserts such as sticky ginger sponge with ginger wine sauce, or baked cheesecake. This is a very popular inn, especially when village events, such as the spring bank holiday street market, are taking place.

Take A606 from Oakham towards Stamford, at Barnsdale turn left, after 1.5m turn right towards Exton. Pub in village centre
Nearest station: Oakham/Stamford
Nearest motorway: A1

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