Nestled in the picturesque village of Chelsworth, Suffolk, The Peacock Inn is a 14th-century timber-framed establishment that combines historical charm with contemporary cuisine. Renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings and inviting accommodations, this inn provides guests with a quintessential English countryside experience.

You will be forgiven for not being able to point to Chelsworth on the map, as it’s not somewhere you would easily discover in passing and if you blinked, you might miss it while passing through! What it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character as the place oozes rural charm with most properties in the area predating North America as we know it.

It’s this deep history that welcomes you as you step into the 14^th century inn. Starting off life as a house, then the village shop and only in the modern era (well, at least the last hundred years) has it been an Inn.

The name ‘The Peacock’ is not a reference to the flamboyant cuisine prepared in the kitchen, but rather a nod to Mary Peacock who once called it home. It’s a fascinating place to visit and that’s before we even get tucked into a meal or one of their delightful rooms.

I was fortunate to sample a selection of their dishes with a 6-course tasting menu and wine pairing which really delved into the kitchen repertoire and the front of house attention to detail with wine parings. General Manager Jack Butler’s passion for wine and his deep understanding of the kitchen process and flavours opens the door to some creative and well considered wine pairings. Jack’s not just a talented sommelier, he’s a genuinely lovely guy, and him and the rest of the front of house team are a joy to be around.

There’s nothing pretentious nor overbearing here, unlike some of the other coveted eateries in the area (more on this later). The Peacock is really the most ‘un-peacocky’ (I’ve had to invent a new word) place. The name really does it an injustice as it gives the impression of a strutting bird parading around with its regalia, over-confident and full of self-importance. Yet this is far removed from the reality of the Peacock Inn as it’s not trying to show off or make out it’s something it’s not, it’s simply quietly getting on with being awesome, and not making a big song and dance about it. This is just my kind of place!

The food and service was absolutely perfect, from Salt baked beetroot croustades, with black bomber custard, vinegar caviar and fresh apple, to Sea bream ceviche, jalapeno, rose vinegar, linseed crisps with shoi and radishes. I can assure you that everything I tasted was wonderfully presented and tasted as good as it looked. I can’t really give you any further insight, as no words can truly translate taste into a meaningful way that gives you a proper experience. You really must try it to experience it properly, and I mean you really must try it, this place is worth making a special trip for.