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The Poacher: Quintessential Village Pub in Elsworth, Cambridgeshire

A welcoming 17th-century village pub in Elsworth offering home-cooked food, award-winning gardens, and a cozy, dog-friendly atmosphere.

4.6

The Poacher is a charming 17th-century village pub located in Elsworth, near Cambridge. Renowned for its warm hospitality, home-cooked food, and award-winning woodland garden, it offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The pub features a varied menu with traditional and contemporary dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Its rustic thatched roof, wooden beams, and flower-adorned garden make it a picturesque destination for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to The Poacher

  • 1 Brockley Rd, Cambridge, Elsworth, CB23 4JS, GB
  • +441954267722
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-3 pm

Local tips

  • Try the Sunday roast for a classic, perfectly cooked British pub meal.
  • Enjoy the award-winning woodland garden, especially pleasant on sunny days or evenings with garden lighting.
  • The pub is dog-friendly with an indoor dog zone, ideal for visitors with pets.
  • Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, including dairy-free desserts.
  • Visit during weekday evenings or Sundays for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
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The Poacher location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about The Poacher

A Historic Village Pub with Timeless Charm

The Poacher, nestled in the heart of Elsworth, Cambridgeshire, is a traditional 17th-century village pub that embodies the quintessential English countryside charm. Its iconic thatched roof and wooden-beamed interior create a warm, homely atmosphere that welcomes guests like old friends. The pub has been lovingly run by David and Colleen Taylor for nearly a decade, who have cultivated a reputation for genuine hospitality and a sense of community. Visitors often describe it as an extension of the owners’ living room, where everyone is made to feel at home.

Warm Hospitality and a Welcoming Ambience

The Poacher prides itself on its friendly and attentive service, with David and Colleen personally overseeing the bar and kitchen. The pub is especially noted for being dog-friendly, with a designated indoor dog zone, making it a perfect stop for those traveling with pets. The interior exudes rustic charm with wooden beams and cozy seating, while the outdoor woodland garden, which has won awards for its beauty, offers a tranquil and scenic space to enjoy a drink or meal, especially in warm weather when the garden is beautifully lit in the evenings.

Hearty, Home-Cooked Food with a Modern Twist

The kitchen at The Poacher serves a diverse menu that balances traditional British pub fare with contemporary seasonal dishes. The food is prepared fresh daily, using British produce sourced from local suppliers. The menu caters to a wide range of dietary needs, featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, including dairy-free desserts—an uncommon offering for a village pub. Signature dishes include expertly cooked Sunday roasts, tender meat curries, and well-prepared pies and stews. The attention to detail in cooking and presentation makes the dining experience memorable.

A Destination for Drinks and Socializing

The Poacher is also celebrated for its selection of real ales, wines, and an impressive range of non-alcoholic and zero-alcohol drinks, reflecting its status as a destination venue. The bar atmosphere is convivial and relaxed, encouraging lively conversation and camaraderie. The pub’s commitment to quality extends to its drink offerings, chosen personally by the owners to complement the food and enhance the overall experience.

Community and Countryside Setting

Situated in the quaint village of Elsworth, The Poacher offers a peaceful retreat from urban life. Its woodland garden and floral displays contribute to the pub’s picturesque setting, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a genuine village pub experience. The pub’s ethos of traditional values, community spirit, and environmental care resonates through its well-maintained surroundings and locally sourced menu.

Practical Details and Visitor Experience

The Poacher operates with typical village pub hours, opening midday and closing by late evening, with extended hours on weekends. It is family-friendly and suitable for a wide audience, including solo travelers, couples, and pet owners. The pub’s moderate price range makes it accessible while maintaining high standards of food and service. Whether stopping by for a hearty meal, a drink in the garden, or a cozy evening indoors, The Poacher offers a quintessential English pub experience with a modern sensibility.

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