The Waterside Inn, Bray, Berkshire
The Waterside Inn, the famous Roux family ‘restaurant with rooms’ was established by Michel Roux in 1972. Now run by his son Alain, the restaurant is located on the banks of the river Thames in the sleepy 16th century village of Bray, a destination renowned for its fine dining and glittering Michelin stars.
Diners at The Waterside Inn, Bray
Oh la la… If you’ve got the luxury of booking ahead, have a generous budget to spend, and enjoy French haute cuisine mixed with elegant surroundings and tradition – The Waterside Inn in Bray is the place for you. Skip lunch, check in for the night and treat yourself to the Tasting Menu. The staff, who couldn’t be more charming, will look after you very well indeed.
- Dine with a view of the Thames
- Stay in the restaurant or a neighbouring cottage
- Have a personal tour of the kitchen
- Explore the foodie village of Bray
Treat Yourself to Some Fine Dining in Bray
It was Michel Roux who first put Bray on the British culinary map choosing a peaceful waterside location. Unlike The Fat Duck, one of its neighbours in the village, the emphasis here is firmly on French cuisine. Expect immaculate service, starched white tablecloths, beautiful dishes, great attention to detail, an extensive wine list and a magnificent cheese trolley. Sip your wine and soak up the soothing view as the river gently flows by. On the Tasting Menu, you’ll find dishes such as filet of sole cooked with morels and American-style crayfish tails served with a basil-flavoured sauce, and flaked Devon crab with a smooth cauliflower cream and Oscietra caviar. Desserts, like the divine warm rhubarb soufflé enhanced with raspberries, will delight.
Check in to a Restaurant With Rooms
If you’re staying overnight, there are 11 rooms available at the Waterside Inn, some of them suites. Some are housed in the main restaurant building or in the case of the more spacious accommodation, in cottages dotted around the restaurant. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms or shower-rooms, flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi. There is no room service, but there’s a guest kitchen where you’ll find fresh coffee, a variety of teas, scrumptious homemade biscuits and an honesty box for the do-it-yourself bar. In keeping with French tradition, continental breakfast is served in the morning in your room.
Pop into Heston’s Pub
While you’re in the foodie village of Bray, pop in for a pint at one of Heston Blumenthal’s two pubs in the village. The Hinds Head is steeped in Tudor history.
Tips
- Book a room overlooking the Thames such as Heron which has two bathrooms
- Book the Signature Deluxe package to enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen in the morning, meeting either Alain Roux or his Head Chef
- Children must be at least 12 years old to dine in the restaurant
Where to Stay Near Bray
The Castle Hotel
Windsor, Berkshire
This 4-star luxury hotel is in the town centre, only 2 minutes’ walk from the main gate of Windsor Castle.
Rooms from £108 a night.
Dogs
They tell me that animals are not accepted unless assisting guests with disabilities.
How to Find The Waterside Inn in Bray
The Waterside Inn, Ferry Road, Bray, Berkshire SL6 2AT
Website: www.waterside-inn.co.uk
The Foodie Travel Guide
Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures.