The Bricklayers Arms
Recommended by
Our view
"Country inn with Anglo-French cuisine"
Overview
The creeper-clad Bricklayers Arms evolved from early 18th-century cottages that, in 1832, the former Benskin’s brewery had part-converted into an alehouse. Additional conversions took place in the 1970s, with remaining outbuildings and barn becoming the restaurant more recently. Like The Nags Head 10 miles away in Flaunden, it’s owned by the Michaels family. Featuring in many films and TV programmes, the pub is a favourite with locals, walkers, horse-riders and, well, just about everyone, an obvious reason being the array of locally brewed real ales and locally sourced produce. Past the ivy-covered façade is an immaculate interior, with low beams, exposed brickwork, open fires and candlelight, although on a warm, sunny day a drink or a meal in the terraced, flower-filled garden would be hard to beat. Traditional English and French cooking in the award-winning AA Rosetted restaurant is masterminded by head chef Claude Paillet. With nearly 140 wines and champagnes to browse, the ideal accompaniment for your meal will jump off the page. Start with a sharing board of Mediterranean charcuterie; or ballotine of sea trout with crab and crayfish and saffron cream, followed by risotto of the day; or slow cooked pork cutlet with a min pork pie, black pudding and apple bonbon.
Ratings & awards
AA Pick of the Pubs
Also at this location
Restaurant
Bricklayers Arms
1 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence
- Children welcome
- Gluten free menu
- Private dining
- Wheelchair access
About the area
As Hertfordshire is so close to London, many of its towns have become commuter havens. St Albans, less than 19 miles (30km) from the capital, has retained its distinctive character, along with many historic remains.
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