The Knife & Cleaver: A Contemporary Gastropub Retreat in Houghton Conquest
A stylish gastropub and cozy B&B in Houghton Conquest blending rustic charm with modern dining and a welcoming village atmosphere.
Nestled in the village of Houghton Conquest, The Knife & Cleaver is a gastropub offering a blend of modern dining and comfortable accommodation. Known for its extensive menu and large garden, it combines rustic charm with a contemporary wine bar atmosphere. The venue includes a bed & breakfast, making it a versatile stop for travelers seeking hearty meals and a cozy stay in Bedfordshire.
A brief summary to The Knife & Cleaver
- The Grove, Houghton Conquest, MK45 3LA, GB
- +441234930789
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the breakfast menu, which is highly praised for its hearty and well-prepared offerings.
- Reserve a table in advance for dinner, especially on weekends, as the gastropub can get busy.
- Enjoy the large garden area during warmer months for a relaxed outdoor drink or meal.
- If staying overnight, confirm room amenities and maintenance details beforehand for a comfortable stay.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Knife & Cleaver location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Knife & Cleaver
A Modern Gastropub with Village Roots
The Knife & Cleaver stands as a contemporary gastropub in the heart of Houghton Conquest, Bedfordshire. It occupies a traditional pub setting enhanced by modern touches, creating a space that feels both welcoming and stylish. The establishment balances its role as a pub, restaurant, and bed & breakfast, catering to locals and visitors alike. Its location on The Grove situates it within a charming village environment, offering a peaceful retreat from busier urban centers.Dining Experience and Culinary Offerings
The Knife & Cleaver is recognized for its extensive menu, which spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The breakfast service is particularly noted for being substantial and well-prepared, appealing to early risers and guests staying overnight. The menu features traditional pub fare with a modern twist, including meat dishes and vegetarian options. While some diners have commented on the pricing as being on the higher side, the quality of food presentation and variety remain key draws. The gastropub atmosphere leans towards a wine bar vibe, with a good selection of beers and wines complementing the meals.Accommodation and Amenities
Beyond dining, The Knife & Cleaver offers accommodation in a separate block, providing guests with a quaint country stay. Rooms are decorated with a simple, cozy aesthetic, though some guests have noted variability in room conditions such as occasional dampness or maintenance issues. The accommodation includes essential amenities and a quiet environment conducive to restful nights. Breakfast is included with stays, enhancing the value for overnight guests.Atmosphere and Setting
The pub boasts a large garden area with background music, creating a relaxing outdoor space ideal for warmer months. Inside, the decor blends rustic and modern elements, contributing to a casual yet refined ambiance. The staff are generally described as efficient and friendly, though service experiences have varied. The venue’s charm lies in its combination of traditional village pub character with contemporary dining and lodging facilities.Community Role and Visitor Appeal
The Knife & Cleaver serves as a social hub within Houghton Conquest, appealing to locals and visitors seeking a quality meal or a comfortable overnight stay. It holds a reputation as a versatile venue suitable for family gatherings, couples, and solo travelers. Its location in Bedfordshire makes it an accessible stop for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby attractions.Considerations for Visitors
While the Knife & Cleaver offers a pleasant setting and good food, prospective visitors should be aware of mixed service reviews and occasional maintenance concerns in accommodation. The pricing reflects its gastropub status, which may be higher than typical village pubs. Nonetheless, its combination of dining, lodging, and garden space provides a comprehensive experience for those looking to enjoy rural England with modern comforts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
English Heritage - Bushmead Priory
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The Warren House
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East Midlands Steam and Country Show
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78 Derngate
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Hinchingbrooke Country Park
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Northampton Castle Postern Gate
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Discover the solitary Postern Gate, the last surviving gateway of Northampton Castle, echoing centuries of royal history and medieval intrigue.
St Michael's Church
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Discover the serene beauty and architectural elegance of St Michael's Church, a historic Anglican landmark in the heart of St Albans.
Buckingham Old Gaol
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National Trust - Buckingham Chantry Chapel
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The Clock Tower
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Medieval defiance meets history: England's only surviving town belfry with 620 years of stories to tell.
Roman Wall of St Albans
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St Albans Cathedral
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Britain's oldest sacred site, where 1,700 years of history converge in Norman stone and Roman brick.
The George
36.0 km
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Cromwell Museum
36.1 km
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RSPB Fowlmere
36.6 km
Explore RSPB Fowlmere, a serene nature reserve in Royston, perfect for bird watching and enjoying the tranquility of the British countryside.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ampthill Antiques Emporium
3.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and expert craftsmanship at Ampthill Antiques Emporium, a historic gem in Bedfordshire’s charming market town.
The Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park
3.9 km
Explore 8km of scenic trails, wetlands, and woodlands at Bedfordshire’s Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park, a family-friendly nature haven.
Cooper's Hill, Bedfordshire
4.0 km
Explore Bedfordshire’s largest heathland reserve with rare wildlife, historic landscapes, and tranquil woodland on the Greensand Ridge.
The Interchange Retail Park
5.3 km
A lively retail hub in Bedford with popular high street brands, local kiosks, and convenient shopping hours for every visitor.
Moot Hall Museum
6.1 km
Explore the 15th-century Moot Hall Museum in Elstow, a unique medieval market hall dedicated to John Bunyan and 17th-century English life.
Cainhoe Castle
6.7 km
Explore the mysterious earthworks of Cainhoe Castle, a Norman motte and triple bailey fortress nestled in Bedfordshire’s tranquil countryside.
Flitwick park
6.7 km
A peaceful town park with nature trails and open green spaces, perfect for family outings and tranquil walks in Bedfordshire.
Addison Howard Park
6.9 km
A vibrant family park in Kempston offering adventure play, sports facilities, and community events amid scenic green spaces.
Wrest Park
7.4 km
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St John's Retail Park
7.8 km
A convenient and diverse shopping destination in Bedford with popular stores, ample parking, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Warden Abbey
8.0 km
Discover the serene and historic grounds of Warden Abbey, a Cistercian legacy transformed into a timeless English landmark.
Harpur Square
8.3 km
A vibrant pedestrian plaza in Bedford blending shopping, dining, and cultural life in a lively urban setting.
John Howard Statue
8.3 km
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Bedford Castle Mound
8.3 km
Historic Norman castle earthwork with panoramic river views, accessible paths, and rich medieval heritage beside Bedford’s scenic Embankment.
Harpur Shopping Centre
8.4 km
Bedford’s main indoor shopping centre with high‑street brands, independent shops, and practical amenities in the town centre.
Essential places to dine
The Knife & Cleaver
0.0 km
A charming gastropub and B&B in Houghton Conquest blending hearty breakfasts, modern British cuisine, and countryside comfort.
Fratelli Italian Restaurant
3.5 km
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Eileen’s by Steve Barringer
3.5 km
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Flying Horse Clophill
5.3 km
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The White Hart Flitton
5.8 km
A charming family-run country pub in Flitton, Bedfordshire, known for its excellent British food, warm service, and elegant wedding marquee in a peaceful village setting.
The Legstraps
5.9 km
A charming gastro pub in Wootton blending traditional British pub warmth with exceptional modern cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Diya Royal
6.6 km
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The Cross Keys
6.8 km
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Kings Arms Bedford
7.7 km
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Corner 5 Restaurant
7.8 km
Modern English dining on the shores of Box End Park’s lake, where seasonal flavors meet lakeside views in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Zizzi - Bedford
8.2 km
Savor fresh Italian flavors and riverside views at Zizzi Bedford, your friendly neighborhood spot for pizza, pasta, and more.
Olive Tree Restaurant Bedford
8.2 km
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Miller & Carter Bedford
8.2 km
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Albero Lounge
8.2 km
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Pen & Cob
8.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
No.14 Ampthill
3.3 km
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The Wardrobe
3.4 km
Discover stylish, quality clothing with friendly service at The Wardrobe, Ampthill’s charming boutique on Church Street.
Find Vintage Ampthill
3.4 km
Discover timeless vintage furniture and unique home treasures in a charming Ampthill courtyard setting.
Love 2 Shop Boutique
3.4 km
Explore the charming Love 2 Shop Boutique in Ampthill for unique ladies' fashion that captures the essence of local style and elegance.
The Store Room
5.3 km
Discover unique gifts, souvenirs, and home accessories inspired by the tranquil forest setting at The Store Room, Center Parcs Woburn Forest.
Sherbet Pip
6.1 km
Step into Sherbet Pip, Lidlington’s charming sweet and gift shop, where nostalgic flavors and traditional treats await in a cozy village setting.
Box of Delights
6.5 km
Independent gift and greeting card shop bringing joy to Flitwick's celebrations.
Alban Retail Park
7.6 km
A versatile and convenient shopping destination in Bedford offering homeware, garden supplies, and more with extended hours and easy access.
Unique - Designer Collection
7.9 km
Discover curated women's fashion blending timeless elegance and modern style at Unique - Designer Collection in Bedford.
Primark
8.4 km
Discover unbeatable style and value at Primark Bedford, your go-to destination for affordable fashion in the vibrant Harpur Centre.
The Works
8.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in Bedford’s friendly and accessible retail hub.
Charisma
8.5 km
Unique handcrafted gifts and artisanal treasures in Bedford's charming Arcade shopping center.
Boutique Planet
8.5 km
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The Arcade
8.5 km
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Absolutely ShabbyLass
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Stone Jug
5.1 km
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Cocos Bedford
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The Rose
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Astons Bedford
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The Flute Wine & Lounge Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Bedford
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Vogue
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The Cellar Bar
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Auction Room Bar
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The Castle
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Bar Citrus
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The Ship
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The Three Cups
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The Bear Bedford
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OURS
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lagos Night Lounge
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The Studio Club
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Cubana Nightclub - Bedford
8.5 km
Bedford’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with live music, multiple bars, and VIP areas, offering an energetic dance and social experience on Mill Street.
Six's Club
8.6 km
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The Kalooki Club
8.8 km
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Pink Punters
17.5 km
Milton Keynes’ dynamic multi-room nightclub blending diverse music, vibrant crowds, and a lively late-night party atmosphere.
Penthouse Playrooms
19.1 km
A vibrant adult nightclub in Dunstable offering themed events and lively weekend entertainment for an energetic night out.
Garudaa
19.4 km
A spacious, welcoming gentlemen’s club in Milton Keynes offering VIP areas, game rooms, and late-night entertainment in a relaxed, darkly lit setting.
Mia Musica
21.1 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
TWC
32.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and energetic party scene at TWC, Aylesbury’s premier nightclub destination.
Club Bar X
34.0 km
Lively basement nightclub on Wellingborough Road, Northampton, offering late-night music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene Thursday to Saturday.
Club 145
34.0 km
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VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
34.3 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Bar and Club
34.5 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with eclectic music, lively dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere at Stereo Bar and Club.
NB's
34.6 km
Experience Northampton’s vibrant nightlife with NB's lively clubbing atmosphere, multiple rooms, and sociable outdoor bar area.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly