One of the ultimate joys we indulge in every now and again on a lazy Sunday is a pub brunch. Having brought the new pup home in March, we hadn’t had the chance to take her out to a dog-friendly restaurant so when I saw a mention of the Woburn on social media, I knew we had to check it out.
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Woburn Village, The Woburn offers a charming blend of 18th-century elegance and modern comfort, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely brunch. As soon as you step into this historic establishment, you are welcomed by the warm ambience of the open kitchen, where the chefs’ culinary prowess is on full display. The tasteful decor also caters for us bookworms with a range of antique books on the bookshelves between the main dining room and the bar/lounge area.
Of course, if you have a canine companion, you are restricted to the dog-friendly bar area but with plenty of space and overlooking the main entrance, this high-traffic area makes for the perfect people-watching spot, also perfect for a pup getting the hang of belly rubs from strangers.
The brunch menu at The Woburn is a delightful array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, showcasing a range of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Take the girl out of Türkiye, but you can’t take Türkiye out of the girl, so for me it had to be the Shakshuka – free-range eggs baked in a tomato, sweet pepper & smoked paprika sauce, Greek yoghurt, spiced seeds, grilled sourdough. An absolute delight, with such fresh ingredients cooked to perfection.
Mr O. went for a more traditional option, the Full English while the littlies shared a Kids English which was plenty for the two of them to share and enjoy.
For those with a sweet tooth, the buttermilk pancakes are a must-try. Served with a choice of maple syrup and seasonal berries, they were fluffy and light, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was a comforting and satisfying end to our brunch experience.
The Tavistock Bar, with its selection of real ales, fine wines, and expertly crafted cocktails, offers a perfect accompaniment to the brunch dishes. We particularly enjoyed the freshly brewed coffee – so good I had to get a second cup after downing the first even before my order arrived.
Service at The Woburn is brilliant, with the staff being attentive without being intrusive. They ensured that our dining experience was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. The atmosphere, complemented by tasteful décor and comfortable seating, made for a relaxed and cosy setting, ideal for a weekend brunch. Weekend papers available at the bar are an absolute bonus!
Moreover, The Woburn’s dog-friendly policy is a significant plus for pet owners. The outdoor seating area allows you to enjoy your meal in the company of your furry friends, making it a welcoming space for all, as well as the bar area. One thing missing was the now almost mandatory dog bowl and jar of dog treats every dog-friendly pub seem to have.
Overall, brunch at The Woburn is a delightful experience that combines excellent food, outstanding service, and a charming setting. Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring Woburn Village, it is certainly worth a visit for a memorable brunch outing.
