The Silks: A Historic Village Pub with MasterChef Flair in Wiltshire
Historic Victorian pub in Wiltshire serving seasonal British fare by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake, blending heritage with community spirit.
Nestled in the charming village of Ogbourne St Andrew near Marlborough, The Silks is a Victorian-era pub renowned for its warm community spirit and exceptional Great British cuisine crafted by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake. This lovingly restored pub blends historic character with modern hospitality, offering seasonal dishes, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to The Silks
- Main Rd, Marlborough, Ogbourne Saint Andrew, SN8 1RZ, GB
- +441672705064
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-3 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
- Friday 12 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-3 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Booking a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for evening service from Wednesday to Saturday.
- Try the Sunday roast, a celebrated local tradition that showcases the pub’s culinary excellence.
- Check the calendar for regular events like quiz nights and supper clubs to enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.
- Consider staying overnight in one of the cosy bedrooms above the pub for a full village experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Silks location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Silks
Roots in Victorian Wiltshire
The Silks, originally known as The Silks on The Downs, dates back to the 1850s. It occupies a site that once housed two establishments: The Wheatsheaf public house and the Axe and Compass beer house. After the closure of the latter in 1937, The Silks grew into a beloved village pub and coaching inn, serving travelers and locals across the centuries. Its Victorian architecture and historic charm remain evident, preserving a tangible link to Wiltshire’s rural past.Community Revival and Modern Rebirth
In 2020, The Silks closed temporarily due to the pandemic, but the local parish council and a dedicated group of volunteers from the Ogbourne Valley rallied to save this treasured pub. Through significant fundraising and community effort, The Silks was refurbished and reopened in 2022, reinstating its role as a central social hub. This community ownership model highlights the pub’s importance beyond just food and drink—it is a symbol of local identity and resilience.Culinary Excellence with a Local Focus
Today, The Silks is led by Thomas Frake, MasterChef Champion and executive chef, who brings a refined yet approachable culinary vision. The menu celebrates Great British seasonal pub grub, emphasizing trusted local suppliers and artisanal ingredients. Guests can enjoy classic dishes alongside curated local beers, ciders, and a selection of fine wines and spirits. The kitchen operates Wednesday to Saturday with lunch and evening service, ensuring fresh, high-quality offerings.Atmosphere and Amenities
The Silks combines rustic Victorian features with a warm, laid-back interior featuring abundant wood accents that create a cozy and inviting environment. Above the pub, a few sympathetically decorated bedrooms offer a restful stay, maintaining the historic character of the building. Regular events such as quiz nights, book clubs, and supper clubs foster a lively and inclusive community atmosphere.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Main Road in Ogbourne St Andrew, The Silks enjoys a peaceful village setting within the scenic Wiltshire Downs. The location offers a tranquil retreat for visitors exploring the countryside around Marlborough, blending rural charm with easy access to local attractions. The pub’s role as both a local gathering place and a destination for travelers enriches the cultural fabric of the area.Legacy and Future
The Silks stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional village pubs in England, successfully bridging heritage and contemporary hospitality. Its revival through community effort and the stewardship of a celebrated chef ensures it will continue to thrive as a beloved landmark, offering authentic experiences rooted in place and people.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lord Wantage Monument
26.4 km
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Things To Do In The Cotswolds
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Explore the enchanting Cotswolds, where rolling hills, charming villages, and rich history create the perfect getaway for travelers seeking beauty and adventure.
Cotswold Trails
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of the Cotswolds with Cotswold Trails, where every journey is an adventure.
Abbey Grounds Park
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Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Abbey Grounds Park in Cirencester, a serene escape for all visitors.
Castle Combe
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Experience the timeless charm of Castle Combe, a picturesque Cotswold village known for its stunning landscapes and historic architecture.
Arlington Row
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Explore the enchanting Arlington Row in Bibury, a historic gem showcasing Cotswold architecture and serene river views for an unforgettable experience.
Bridge and footpath to Arlington Row
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Uncover the beauty of Bibury's hiking trails leading to Arlington Row, where historic charm meets breathtaking scenery in the Cotswolds.
National Trust - Bibury
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Discover the timeless beauty of Bibury, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds known for its enchanting cottages, serene landscapes, and rich history.
Barnsley Park
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Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Barnsley Park, a hidden gem in the Cotswolds perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Rodmarton Long Barrow
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Uncover the ancient secrets of Rodmarton Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial site that invites you to journey through time in the heart of the English countryside.
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
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Discover Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, a beautiful sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Highgrove Gardens
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Douai Abbey
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Explore the tranquil grounds and rich heritage of Douai Abbey, a serene Catholic church and historical gem in the heart of the English countryside.
Cerney House Gardens
39.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cerney House Gardens, a tranquil retreat in the Cotswolds, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation.
Cotswold Hills
40.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Cotswold Hills, a stunning destination in England known for its scenic beauty, charming villages, and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Barbury Castle Country Park
5.7 km
Explore a 2,500-year-old Iron Age hillfort with stunning panoramic views and rich history in the scenic North Wessex Downs.
National Trust - Lockeridge Dene and Piggledene
6.3 km
Explore ancient sarsen stone valleys nestled in tranquil Wiltshire countryside, rich with natural beauty and prehistoric heritage.
West Woods
6.6 km
Explore the enchanting ancient woodlands of West Woods, where natural beauty and deep history intertwine just south of Marlborough.
Hackpen White Horse
6.8 km
Discover the unique square-shaped Hackpen White Horse, a chalk hill figure commemorating Queen Victoria’s coronation, set amidst Wiltshire’s scenic downs.
Liddington Hillfort
7.8 km
Explore Liddington Hillfort, Wiltshire’s ancient Iron Age stronghold with panoramic views and layered history from prehistoric times to WWII.
The Sanctuary
8.2 km
Explore the ancient timber circles and earthworks of The Sanctuary, a mystical Neolithic site within the Avebury World Heritage landscape.
Avebury
9.0 km
Explore Avebury, the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle, a monumental prehistoric landscape of mystery, ritual, and enduring heritage.
National Trust Museum
9.2 km
Explore Britain’s prehistoric heritage through the remarkable artefacts and stories at the Alexander Keiller Museum in Avebury’s ancient heartland.
National Trust - Avebury Manor
9.3 km
Explore a historic 16th-century manor and stunning gardens nestled within the world’s largest Neolithic stone circle in Wiltshire.
West Kennet Long Barrow
9.5 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Neolithic tombs, a monumental burial site offering ancient history and stunning Wiltshire views.
Silbury Hill
9.6 km
Explore Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric chalk mound, a monumental mystery towering over the Wiltshire landscape since 2400 BC.
Windmill Hill, Avebury
10.3 km
Explore Windmill Hill, a vast Neolithic causewayed enclosure with panoramic views and deep prehistoric significance within Avebury's ancient landscape.
Bincknoll Castle
10.9 km
Explore the tranquil earthworks and layered history of Bincknoll Castle, a medieval motte and bailey nestled on Wiltshire’s scenic chalk escarpment.
Littlecote Roman Villa
11.1 km
Explore the grandeur of Roman Britain at Littlecote Roman Villa, home to stunning mosaics and ancient ruins in a serene Wiltshire estate.
The Alton Barnes White Horse
11.8 km
An iconic chalk hill figure on Wiltshire’s highest point, blending history, legend, and stunning panoramic views across the Pewsey Vale.
Essential places to dine
The Silks
0.0 km
Historic Victorian pub in Wiltshire serving seasonal British fare by MasterChef Champion Thomas Frake, blending heritage with community spirit.
Restaurant 56
25.7 km
Elegant British fine dining in a historic 17th-century coaching inn set within tranquil gardens on the edge of the Cotswolds.
The Woodspeen Restaurant
26.2 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine in a charming farmhouse with seasonal menus, award-winning wines, and an adjoining cookery school near Newbury.
Damson Restaurant
26.5 km
An intimate, sustainably driven dining experience in a beautifully transformed historic pub in Winterbourne, Newbury.
Sign of the Angel
27.6 km
Step into history at Sign of the Angel, a 15th-century coaching inn in Lacock offering cozy charm, excellent food, and timeless English hospitality.
The Old Boathouse
27.6 km
Charming lakeside gastropub offering hearty British and European dishes with scenic views at Cotswold Water Park.
GOAT ON THE ROOF
28.5 km
A vibrant British tapas restaurant and sustainable wine bar in Newbury, celebrating local flavours with a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Bunk Inn Pub & Dining
30.1 km
A charming Berkshire country pub blending Mediterranean-inspired dining with classic British hospitality in the heart of Curridge.
The Ox Barn
31.3 km
Experience modern British countryside cuisine in a beautifully restored 19th-century oxen house nestled in the tranquil Cotswold village of Southrop.
Grey's Brasserie
32.8 km
Sophisticated yet relaxed dining at Whatley Manor, featuring globally inspired small plates and traditional Sunday roasts in a stunning Cotswolds setting.
Bella Luna
32.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Bella Luna, Thatcham’s vibrant Italian restaurant on High Street.
MBB BRASSERIE
34.2 km
Stylish modern British brasserie in Cirencester’s historic Corn Hall, serving classic and contemporary dishes in a vibrant open kitchen setting.
Bybrook
35.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in a historic Cotswold manor with fresh, seasonal produce from its own kitchen garden.
The White Hart at Fyfield
35.4 km
Historic 15th-century pub in Fyfield blending vaulted halls and oak beams with refined Modern British cuisine and artisan cocktails.
The Catherine Wheel
35.5 km
A family-run pub and inn in Bibury serving fresh local food with warm hospitality in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Curate
2.9 km
Discover artistically inspired fashion and homewares at Curate, Marlborough’s award-winning independent boutique on High Street.
White Stuff Marlborough
3.0 km
Discover timeless, sustainable fashion and accessories at White Stuff Marlborough on the historic High Street.
The India Shop
3.0 km
Discover vibrant fair trade treasures and authentic Indian craftsmanship in the heart of Marlborough’s charming market town.
Elements of Avebury
9.0 km
Discover authentic local artistry and spiritual treasures in the heart of Avebury’s ancient stone circle.
Avebury Community Shop
9.1 km
Explore the Avebury Community Shop for unique local products, artisan goods, and a taste of Marlborough's vibrant culture.
The Henge Shop
9.1 km
Explore Celtic and Pagan treasures, spiritual guidance, and artisan crafts in the heart of Avebury Stone Circle.
National Trust shop
9.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a historic stables building at the heart of Avebury’s ancient village.
The Wiltshire Gift Co
13.0 km
Discover unique gifts and candles in a vibrant garden centre setting with family-friendly attractions and local charm.
Rowans Closet Arcadia
13.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and personal tarot readings at Rowans Closet Arcadia, a creative boutique in the heart of Swindon.
Something Different Gift Shop
13.2 km
Discover quirky gifts, collectibles, and unique treasures at Something Different Gift Shop in Swindon’s vibrant Brunel Shopping Centre.
Primark
13.3 km
Discover unbeatable value fashion for the whole family at Primark Swindon on Regent Street, your go-to for style and savings.
The Parade
13.4 km
Swindon's central shopping destination with diverse stores, cafes, and easy access to transport hubs for a complete retail experience.
The Gift Box
19.1 km
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THINGS
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Emery Gate Shopping Centre
26.9 km
Chippenham’s only covered shopping centre offering national brands, local shops, cafes, and ample parking in a convenient central location.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bell
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Red Lion
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The Fox & Hounds
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Waggon & Horses
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The Hop Inn
12.0 km
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The Tuppenny
12.1 km
Swindon’s cozy craft beer haven with quirky charm, live music, and a vibrant social scene for all beer lovers and culture seekers.
Eighteen Bar & Lounge
12.2 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Swindon’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
The Vault
12.3 km
Swindon's intimate cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, stylish decor, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
1101 Cocktail Bar
12.3 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a relaxed vibe make 1101 Cocktail Bar a standout spot for Swindon nightlife enthusiasts.
Longs Bar
12.3 km
A lively cocktail bar in Swindon's Old Town offering creative drinks, stone-baked pizzas, and a vibrant atmosphere day and night.
The White Horse Inn
15.2 km
Traditional Wiltshire pub and guesthouse offering homemade food, local ales, cosy rooms, and a warm countryside welcome in Compton Bassett.
The Ivy Inn
19.8 km
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The George Inn
22.8 km
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Westbrook Inn
24.2 km
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The Somerford Arms
25.2 km
A family-run village pub in Little Somerford offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a charming countryside atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Venue Five-0 Night Club
16.1 km
Energetic weekend nights and diverse music await at Venue Five-0 Night Club, Royal Wootton Bassett’s lively nightlife hotspot.
E11evn's Nightclub
27.0 km
A lively late-night hotspot in Chippenham offering weekend clubbing with a spirited local vibe and energetic dance floors.
ReVA Nightclub
34.2 km
Cirencester’s largest nightclub offering electrifying music, stylish cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Tub
42.2 km
A vibrant student nightclub on University of Bath campus, perfect for dancing, socializing, and late-night fun in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub
44.2 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Labyrinth Bar & Nightclub with four unique rooms, eclectic music, and a lively social atmosphere.
Second Bridge
44.3 km
A lively nightclub in Bath offering cocktails, shisha, and a buzzing beer garden for vibrant nightlife experiences.
Lomah
44.3 km
Experience Bath’s industrial-chic nightlife at Lomah, a stylish underground club with hip hop beats and a laidback vibe for 21+ guests.
Zero / Zero
44.4 km
Experience Bath’s vibrant nightlife at Zero / Zero, a cozy nightclub and cocktail lounge with a lively atmosphere and late-night beats.
Sub 13
44.5 km
Bath’s award-winning cocktail bar and nightclub offering masterclasses, vibrant nightlife, and a heated terrace in a stylish three-floor venue.
Komedia
44.6 km
Bath’s vibrant community-owned venue offering comedy, live music, cabaret, and more in a beautifully restored historic cinema.
Kiss Bar
46.6 km
An intimate late-night club in Oxford known for its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit party scene until its recent closure.
ATIK Oxford
46.6 km
Oxford’s largest nightclub with diverse music rooms, vibrant atmosphere, and strong security, offering a late-night hub for students and locals alike.
Oxford Leisure Ltd
46.6 km
Experience Oxford’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic music, themed events, and a lively dance floor at Oxford Leisure Ltd.
The Bridge Nightclub
46.6 km
Oxford’s lively student-focused nightclub with diverse music, multiple dance floors, and a spacious pub garden for late-night socializing.
Thirst Bar
46.6 km
Experience Oxford's nightlife at Thirst Bar, a lively venue for cocktails, dancing, and shisha, perfect for a night out with friends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly