Worth the Drive: Why Reading Food Lovers Should Visit The Wheatsheaf, Chilton Foliat

If you're searching for a country pub near Reading that's genuinely worth the drive, we'd highly recommend adding The Wheatsheaf in Chilton Foliat to your list. Just over an hour from Reading, this beautifully restored village pub combines historic charm, an exceptional modern British menu and one of the most impressive new dining spaces we've visited recently.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Chilton Foliat, The Wheatsheaf is one of Wiltshire's oldest pubs, welcoming guests since 1787. Following an extensive refurbishment with the new Orangery, it has retained all of its historic charm while introducing a stunning handcrafted oak orangery that offers a contemporary dining experience overlooking the gardens. Just over an hour from Reading, it's an easy countryside day trip and the perfect place to escape the town for a slower pace.

A Beautiful Setting

From the moment we arrived, we could see why so many people are talking about The Wheatsheaf's transformation.

Parking was easy, the gardens were immaculate and stepping inside immediately gave us that feeling of slowing down and leaving everyday life behind.

The Orangery is undoubtedly the star of the refurbishment. Flooded with natural light and centred around an open kitchen, it creates a vibrant atmosphere while still feeling relaxed and intimate. Watching the chefs at work adds another dimension to the dining experience and makes the restaurant feel full of energy.

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, marking an anniversary, enjoying Sunday lunch with family or simply treating yourself to a long lunch, it's perfect for special occasions and the kind of place where you'll happily lose track of time.

The Food

The menu focuses on quality seasonal ingredients with a modern British approach. I chose the Rotisserie Monkfish, served with fish masala curry, blooming onion, mint yoghurt and mango ketchup. It was beautifully presented, perfectly cooked and packed with flavour.

My mum opted for the 7oz Fillet Steak, cooked medium rare exactly as requested – tender, juicy and one of the best steaks she's enjoyed in a long time.

Dad chose the John Dory, accompanied by haricot beans, fish cream, courgette, basil and mint, another beautifully balanced dish showcasing fresh seasonal produce.

My two daughters tucked into fish and chips and happily polished off every bite – always a good sign.

Save Room For Dessert

We couldn't leave without trying dessert.

The sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream was rich, indulgent and everything you'd hope for from this classic British favourite.

The Eton mess, served with macerated strawberries, lime and elderflower, provided a lighter, refreshing finish to the meal.

Naturally, I rounded everything off with a cappuccino while we sat chatting and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

More Than Just A Great Meal

What stood out most wasn't simply the quality of the food. It was the experience.

Friendly, attentive staff, beautiful surroundings and a pace that encourages you to stay a little longer.
It reminded us how enjoyable it can be to gather around the table without rushing anywhere afterwards.

The Wheatsheaf also offers seven boutique bedrooms, making it an ideal countryside escape if you'd like to turn lunch into an overnight stay.

For Berkshire diners looking to make more of the trip, it's a wonderful way to extend your visit and enjoy everything this beautiful part of Wiltshire has to offer.

Is The Wheatsheaf Worth Visiting?

Whether you're searching for one of the best restaurants near Reading for a special occasion, a memorable Sunday lunch, or simply a beautiful country pub with exceptional food, it's a destination that's well worth the drive.

Verdict

The Wheatsheaf is everything you hope a country pub will be – beautiful surroundings, genuinely warm hospitality and outstanding food that makes the journey worthwhile. The stunning new Orangery brings a fresh, contemporary feel while respecting the pub's rich history, creating a dining space that's both elegant and relaxed.

Every dish showcased quality seasonal ingredients, the service struck the perfect balance of attentive without being intrusive, and the peaceful village setting makes it easy to turn lunch into an afternoon escape.

For anyone based in Reading or the wider Berkshire area, it's an easy countryside day trip from Reading that feels a world away from the hustle and bustle.

With boutique rooms available and scenic countryside walks right on the doorstep, it's the kind of place you'll find yourself planning to visit again before you've even left.

Highlights

• Stunning new handcrafted oak Orangery
• Exceptional modern British menu
• Excellent service
• Family friendly
• Dog friendly
• Boutique accommodation available
• Easy parking
• Beautiful Wiltshire village setting - ideal for a countryside day trip from Reading

Author Bio – Liz Hutchings

Liz Hutchings is the Founder and Managing Director of Total Guide to Ltd, a multi-award-winning local media and digital marketing company dedicated to helping businesses succeed, people thrive, and places come alive.

Since launching the first Total Guide in 2012, Liz has built a trusted network of regional lifestyle and business platforms that connect communities with the very best local experiences.

Passionate about championing independent businesses, Liz enjoys discovering exceptional places to eat, stay and explore, sharing honest, first-hand reviews to inspire readers across Wiltshire, Berkshire and beyond.