A 250-year-old coaching inn has been given a new lease of life with the opening of The George in Graveley, Hertfordshire, the second pub from the team behind The Cock in Hitchin.
The restoration has preserved the character of the historic village pub while introducing a more contemporary approach to dining. Inside, guests will find a traditional bar alongside two dining rooms, including a bright conservatory-style Garden Room, while a 10-seat private dining space caters for smaller celebrations.
Outside, the pub opens onto an expansive garden overlooking the surrounding countryside, complete with an outdoor bar, central firepit and curved seating designed for everything from leisurely lunches to evening drinks.
Executive Chef Joe Walker, who also oversees the kitchen at The Cock, has created a menu centred on seasonal British produce with a modern take on familiar favourites. Starters include salt-baked beetroot with almond, orange and nasturtium, alongside cured sea bream with heirloom tomatoes, green chilli and garden herbs.
Among the mains are baked cod paired with a crab doughnut and shellfish sauce, Lannock Farm spring lamb with fennel and watercress, and pressed Jersey Royals with Old Winchester cheese, peas, minted greens and a crispy duck egg. Larger sharing dishes, including dry-aged Hertfordshire beef sirloin on the bone, are also a feature.
Bar snacks receive the same attention as the main menu, with dishes such as Old Winchester cheese and British pickle crumpets, cod cheek scampi with curry sauce and a Blythburgh pork and black pudding Scotch egg served with baked apple.
Desserts continue the nostalgic theme with dishes including sticky ban’offee pudding finished with Earl Grey butterscotch and a summery take on Eton Mess featuring strawberries, English sparkling wine and white chocolate.
Sunday roasts also take centre stage, with options including dry-aged Herefordshire sirloin of beef and North Devonshire chicken, both served with traditional trimmings.
The drinks list showcases local ales, craft beers, seasonal cocktails and an extensive wine selection, with English vineyards sitting alongside bottles from further afield. Signature cocktails include a Sour Ancho Cherry Margarita and a Mint & Mango Daiquiri, while several alcohol-free options are also available.
Blending historic surroundings with ingredient-led cooking, The George looks set to become a welcome addition to Hertfordshire’s growing destination pub scene.
The George
19 High Street, Graveley, Hitchin SG4 7LE
Open Tuesday-Saturday (12pm-2.30pm, 5pm-9pm) and Sunday (12pm-5pm).