Food and Drink
The Bull
The Bull Inn plays a very important role in the rich history of Sonning. Originally called the Church House the Inn provided sustenance for Pilgrims visiting the relics of St Sarik at the adjoining St Andrews Church.
Famously mentioned in J K Jeromes memorable 1889 book ‘Three Men in a Boat’ it brought Sonning to the attention of a wider public. In 2005 the Bull featured in an episode of the widely acclaimed BBC series tracing the books original journey and provided one of the highlights of the series.
Today the Bull Inn is continuing to refresh both visitors and residents alike and remains a superbly picturesque venue both from the much photographed outside to the beautiful beamed interior. The bar featuring beers from one of Britains best brewers, restaurant and rooms have won acclaim not least from 2 of the 3 Men in a Boat.
For more details on menus, catering for special occasions and weddings visit www.bullinnsonning.co.uk
The French Horn
Once a coaching inn run by Mrs French, now a much-loved and beautiful venue for the best in fine food and wine. The Times recognises the French Horn as one of the country’s top twenty restaurants with rooms, many of which have superb views of the Thames. After a drink in the welcoming bar or on the riverside terrace, you can enjoy seasonal menus with a distinctively French flavour prepared by Head Chef Josiane Diaga and her team. In addition, traditional English specialities include a delicious steak and kidney pudding and glorious Aylesbury duck roasted on a roaring fire.
For reservations, menus and special offers see www.thefrenchhorn.co.uk or telephone 0118 969 2204.
The Great House
Situated in a delightful riverside location beside Sonning’s iconic 200 year old bridge, you will find The Great House Hotel.
Food and drinks are served daily throughout the year and outdoor dining is available all summer in the beautiful garden. The Great House is the perfect choice for wedding ceremonies and receptions in elegant function suites. We can also cater for business needs in modern conference rooms. With 50 bedrooms, in a relaxed and rural location only 30 minutes on the train from London, The Great House is the perfect hotel destination.
For more information please visit www.greathouseatsonning.co.uk
The Mill at Sonning
The Mill at Sonning, one of the gems of the area, was converted from an 18th Century Flour Mill, the last working water powered mill on the Thames, to a Theatre over 30 years ago. The stunning conversion has produced a marvellous Dinner Theatre seating over 200 in a very special setting. The theatre has deservedly earned a National and International reputation not least from the many stars that have performed there.
Details of the Theatre and the programme of Plays, Concerts and Comedy events together with the star participants and details of the facilities at The Mill at Sonning can be found at www.millatsonning.com
The Sonning Club
The Club is located behind Pearson Hall, with its entrance on the righthand side of the building. As well as a drink and a chat you can enjoy some traditional bar games, including snooker, pool, darts or bar-billiards.
The large, well furnished interior, is split into a number of areas with a pool table and full sized snooker table in one section, the main bar area in another and a lower section with further seating, dance floor, dart boards and bar billiards table. To the rear of the club is a covered patio area, overlooking a beautiful garden, and an ideal location for the kids to play in or to sit outside and enjoy a drink.
The Club organises various events throughout the year some of which can be found on the Club Events page
.The Tea Garden at Sonning Lock
We are hopefully that later in 2023 the Tea Garden will re-open. Watch this space for further info.
Visitors to Sonning are advised not to miss out on a stroll down along the river to visit the picturesque lock with its associated cottage and informal tea garden. Here, between the months of April to October they can sit outside and enjoy hot and cold drinks, cream teas, homemade cakes, snacks and ice creams.
The Village Hamper
In the heart of the village The Village Hamper is a great cafe for drinks, cakes and meeting people and also doubles as a local village store. Opening hours are:
Mon: 8.30-5
Tues: CLOSED
Wed: 8.30-5
Thurs: 8.30-5
Fri: 8.30-5
Sat: 8.30-5
Sun: 9-5
More info on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/VillageHamper/