Margot Henderson to open first pub with rooms

Margot Henderson is to open her first pub with rooms in Somerset in November.

The celebrated chef will launch the Three Horseshoes in a restored 17th century inn in the village of Batcombe.

The main bar will feature wooden beams and a fireplace and welcome guests and dogs. It will serve wines, local ales and bar snacks such as crisp pig’s skin; smoked cod’s roe; and veal mince on toast.

The dining room will serve Henderson’s ‘robust British cooking’, with dishes such as devilled crab and focaccia; chicken and tarragon pie; and custard tarts.

In the summer months the pub will serve guests in its walled garden, with wooden tables sat among fruit trees, flower beds and vegetable plots.

Each of the five bedrooms will look out on to the countryside and feature ‘enormous’ beds, freestanding bathtubs and rain showers. Guests will start each day with Henderson’s ‘Full Somerset’ breakfast of bacon and eggs, pastries and fresh breads.

Originally from New Zealand, Henderson moved to London and worked at the French House in London’s Soho, where she met her husband, chef Fergus Henderson.

She later opened Rochelle Canteen on Arnold Circus, with Melanie Arnold, and published her first book You’re All Invited.