The sleepy Bedfordshire village of Harrold is characterised by stone cottages, a 14th-century bridge and thatched roofs, the most impressive of which sits atop The Oakley Arms.
The Oakley is Bedfordshire’s only pub-restaurant with two-AA rosettes, and is run by husband and wife, Andy and Lizzie Slater. Popular with locals and out-of-towners alike, the longstanding rumour has it that Sir Paul McCartney performed Hey Jude there for the very first time in June 1968, popping into the pub on the way back from a gig and settling in at the pub's piano.
Today, wandering Beatles are not readily found. No matter: it’s hard enough to come by Parisian-levels of patisserie in London, let alone out in the sticks, but The Oakley's is exceptionally good. and almost everything is made from hyper-local, seasonal ingredients which are sourced within 20 miles of the pub.
Wondering where your beef or your beer came from? Look at the chalkboard produce map which sits proudly on the bar, alongside a delightful mismatch of furniture, cushions and fresh flowers; a beer-request book for locals and homely touches including a recipe-book filled dresser. A sign by the entrance reads: “Good food, good wine, good times”. It's not wrong.
Oakley Arms, 98-104 High Street, Harrold, Bedford MK43 7BH; theoakleyharrold.co.uk
