Discover our favourite Sunday roast and carvery spots in the Leicestershire countryside.
Sometimes it’s nice to make a Sunday roast. From the shopping for the ingredients to the devising of the menu, to shutting myself in the kitchen with a soul music soundtrack and a glass of red - I love it.
I always do an excessive amount of side dishes and trimmings and wouldn’t dream of any frozen potato and Yorkshire puddings, no offence Aunt Bessie.
However, the planning, the buying it all, preparing it all, cooking it all, washing it all up after, can be a little too much. Sometimes, I just want the simplicity of visiting a nice pub in the countryside and having it all brought to me.
But, saying all this, it has to be top of the range in high quality roasts. I’m not saying they'll be on a par with mine at home (not possible!), but they have to be pretty good. I have been so disappointed so many times by a carvery when I've ventured out from my own kitchen.
With this in mind, I'm going to share some of my top finds in Leicestershire that combine a nice country walk too so you too can enjoy a Sunday off from the kitchen with a roast dinner that’s nearly as good as home-made.
Foxton Locks Inn
Foxton Locks
Foxton
This one was recommended to me by our Niche editor, and it turns out it's right in my neck of the woods on one of my favourite walking spots.
Head there via Saddington reservoir through Gumley on the Leicestershire round route. (But also maybe don’t as this is my favourite walking route and it’s peaceful currently!).
On a serious note, it’s a beautiful route and the food here is very reasonable, and hearty, with a carvery Sunday roast by the waterside. Perfect for re-fueling after your ramble.
Hitchen’s Barn
Rutland Water
Oakham
A hidden gem that’s no longer especially hidden, Hitchen’s Barn gets a mention here predominantly because it gets a mention in the Michelin Guide and has done in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
But, also, it really is a lovely place and actually very good value for the money.
With lots of attention given to good hearty food using seasonal and local ingredients combined with warm staff and a homely décor, it’s the ideal spot for a warming lunch after a big ol’ walk around Rutland Water.
Ben’s Kitchen - The Old Crown
Bradgate Park
Swadlincote
Established in 2015, Ben’s Kitchen is now in Leicester’s top 5 TripAdvisor’s restaurants.
The reputation is growing with diners across Leicestershire and beyond keen to express their delight at the carvery Sunday roast being ‘the best they have ever had’.
I can certainly agree with that. Great portion sizes, excellent fresh ingredients and actually great value for money, especially considering the rise in food supply costs.
The atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, and the staff really friendly and attentive. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Give yourself a Sunday off from the kitchen, get out into the fresh air and beautiful Leicestershire countryside and support these amazing local restaurants.
