Previously known as The Inn at Farnborough, near Banbury, it was always a popular dining destination. Anthony and I had a vision, though, to make a different mark on the country eating scene – our vision of a village pub the way we felt it should be – a community foodie hub for the 21st century, with contemporary rustic cooking at its core.

Fast forward a year of planning, investment, renovation, re-branding with many magical moments including team brainstorms, wine tastings and menu creations – not to mention sleepless nights! We’ve had an amazing year of transition from The Inn to The Kitchen.

We are all about creating exciting food, and are extremely selective and discerning about our ingredients. I love searching out local food and drink heroes such as Aubrey Allen Butchers (by appointment to Her Majesty The Queen) and the Cotswold Distillery, and we grow much of our fruit and veg in the kitchen garden, which is cultivated with love by our Head Gardener Emma.

In the summer of 2016 we were 30 per cent self-sufficient and this year sees us aiming for 50 per cent. Knowing where our food is from, its provenance and that it’s ethical, is hugely important to us.

Running a successful pub is the outcome of years of hard work and a huge amount of passion, but it helps that I am married to someone who is fanatical about food and together we make a great team. Anthony was trained classically at the Savoy and Dorchester and then spent many years gaining expertise in Michelin-starred restaurants in the south of France, including the world renowned Hotel du Cap. Anthony and the chefs at The Kitchen bring exquisite tastes to the plate – although I am biased.

Our menus change on a weekly, even daily basis, reflecting the seasons and our commitment to sourcing locally. The Head Chef Dan is as passionate about inventive British food as we are.

Spring and Summer sees the kitchen garden come to life, our outside eating area is lit up with fairy lights and we hand out warm blankets for those cooler days. The Smoke Shack is a place where families congregate whilst watching us serve pizzas from Big Bertha, our pizza oven.

Children, dogs, muddy wellies are all welcome – our dog Lola welcomes those who visit and there are woofy treats for furry friends. Nothing makes Anthony and I happier than seeing a table full of family and friends joining together and having fun around a table, eating fantastic food and making wonderful memories.

We have worked tirelessly to carve out a special place at The Kitchen for the locals and beyond, Our staff are fabulous and have really made The Kitchen their own – developing a feeling of warmth and friendship that makes The Kitchen such a special place to walk into.

The Kitchen is everything we hoped for - and more. * thekitchenfarnborough.co.uk or 01295 690615