Wiltshire


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-where"><strong>WHAT, WHERE?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30171" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>It’s all too often eclipsed by nearby big-hitter Bath, but Bradford on Avon is every bit as charming as its big sister. You’ll find narrow streets, flanked by honey-hued cottages, independent shops galore and stunning stone bridges, twinkling with fairy lights as they stretch across the Avon. In fact, as idyllic rural retreats go, it’s pretty darn hard to beat.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Perched just above the meandering waters is <a href="https://timbrellsyard.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timbrell’s Yard</a>, a thriving restaurant with a cosy bar, sun-drenched terrace and 17 rooms. Built in the 18<sup>th</sup> Century, the Grade-II listed building originally belonged to Charles Timbrell, who owned the dyeworks next door. It later became a local pub, before being totally renovated by The Stay Original Co in 2014, and today the menu is overseen by chef extraordinaire Tom Blake.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>THE VIBE&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30224" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-interior-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>I wasn’t sure what to expect on a chilly Monday evening, but Bradford on Avon was buzzing when we arrived at 7:30pm. The only downside was having to compete for parking with the local ceroc group, who were strutting their stuff in the town hall next door.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Indoors, the bar was busy with a gaggle sipping martinis, while couples sat cocooned by the enormous fireplace. There were a few happy hounds too, snoozing patiently while their humans enjoyed a post-walk gin and tonic.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>In the restaurant, things were equally as unfussy and unpretentious. We spotted groups of friends clustered around expansive tables, date night diners and even a pair of new parents, cunningly sneaking in a quick burger while their baby slept beside them.  </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30223" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1-800x533.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-1-788x525.jpg 788w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>With its lofty ceiling and vast arched window, the space here is impressive, but the informal décor stops it being showy. Think swathes of exposed stonework, mellow wooden flooring and squishy, fabric-covered chairs. Lighting is a clever combination of industrial-style fittings and flickering candles, creating a comfy, cosy atmosphere that doesn’t feel a million miles from home. Add chunky timber tables, oak beams and oodles of glass into the mix, and you’ve got a truly lovely spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Outside, there’s a sprawling riverside terrace too, which makes a great place to while away a sunny afternoon. It’s a stone’s throw from the town car park, but the tranquil view means that once you’re ensconced you won’t notice.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>SCOFF AND QUAFF&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="750" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table-1000x750.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30172" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table-1000x750.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table-800x600.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table-768x576.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table-700x525.jpg 700w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Table.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>It may have been Monday, but it seemed a shame not to explore the drinks menu. Booze-free goals begone, I ordered a fat glass of Argentinian Malbec, which proved to be every bit as plummy as promised. There’s an alluring cocktail menu too, and loads of intriguing options for the dry drinkers and drivers among us. The other half went for a ginger Jarr Kombucha, followed by a deliciously zesty grapefruit pressé.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>The food menu is just as varied, with an emphasis on ingredients sourced from the south west. There’s mushroom risotto and squash curry for the veggies, tons of grilled cuts for the carnivores and a crowd-pleasing children’s menu.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1284" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-30177" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms.jpeg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms-800x685.jpeg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms-1000x856.jpeg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms-768x657.jpeg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Devilled-mushrooms-613x525.jpeg 613w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>I started with devilled mushrooms on toast, and our waiter was unfazed when I requested it to be gluten free. The mushrooms were deliciously dark and decadent – perfect for a fungi fiend – but the real stroke of genius was the dollop of spiced crème fraiche on the side. It cut through the richness of the dish perfectly, brilliantly balancing the flavours. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="750" height="1000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-750x1000.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30176" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-750x1000.jpg 750w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-600x800.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines-394x525.jpg 394w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Sardines.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>



<p>Meanwhile, the other half swiftly dispatched his butterflied sardines, which came with harissa mayo and kimchi. Not only did the dish look impressive, it packed a serious flavour punch.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="2000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30175" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak-600x800.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak-750x1000.jpg 750w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Rump-steak-394x525.jpg 394w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Next up was rump steak, and it a whopper. It came with Dorset watercress and braised red onion, but I’m a sucker for chips, so I went the extra mile and snuck in a side. The beef was perfectly rare, deliciously tender and paired perfectly with the robust red cabbage that I’d ordered too. While I’d like to say that I didn’t scoff the lot, it was simply too good to leave. The other main – a hake fillet with roasted fennel – was a lighter choice but no less tasty. The fish was skilfully cooked and sat well alongside the stickiness of the caramelised fennel.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="2000" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30180" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1-600x800.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1-750x1000.jpg 750w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Chocolate-tart-1-394x525.jpg 394w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>We were pretty stuffed by the time it came to pudding, but both gamely ordered the chocolate tart. And boy, were we glad we did. Smooth, rich and beautifully bitter-sweet, it married beautifully with the accompanying scoop of brown sugar ice cream.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>PILLOW TALK&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1500" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30181" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-800x800.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-1000x1000.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-400x400.jpg 400w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-768x768.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-525x525.jpg 525w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-500x500.jpg 500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-bedroom-1100x1100.jpg 1100w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>The 17 bedrooms are a tale of two halves, but you can’t go wrong. Pick from the historic wing, with its freestanding cast-iron baths and timber beams, or the contemporary mezzanine bedrooms, with their picture windows and Nordic style. It’s a tough choice, but I’d opt for 106, a stunning room on the second floor with a vast Manhattan-style platform bed. The clincher? A double-ended rolltop bath with views over the winding river below. Wherever you lay your head, you’ll find crisp white linen, soft merino throws and divine-smelling bathroom products from beloved Wiltshire brand, Bramley.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>ACCESSIBILITY&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<p>It’s good, within the natural limitations of a historic building. There is level access to the bar and disabled toilet, while the steps into the restaurant can be bypassed using the side door. Sadly though, the design and age of the building means it isn’t possible to put in a lift, so many of the bedrooms aren’t fully accessible. However, the team are incredibly helpful, so we’d recommend giving them a call to chat this through.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>DOG-FRIENDLY&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Very much so. Timbrell’s Yard welcomes pooches in the bar area and bedrooms, and overnighters will even receive a surprise goody pack. Bowls and blankets are on offer too, but guests are asked not to leave their four-legged friends unattended upstairs, in case they unleash carnage.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>OUT AND ABOUT</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="750" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30185" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct-800x400.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct-1000x500.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct-768x384.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Avoncliff-Aquaduct-900x450.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p>Work off your chips with a short stroll up to Bradford on Avon’s wharf, where you’ll spot canal boats navigating the town lock. If you fancy going further, mosey down the towpath to <a href="https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/avoncliff-aqueduct" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Avoncliff Aqueduct</a>, which is an epic feat of engineering. Over 100 metres long, it carries the canal high above the river Avon, and makes a fabulous spot for a photo. In the summer months, it’s well worth heading to Barton Farm, a riverside area just five minutes from Timbrell’s Yard. When the sun emerges so do legions of paddle boarders, picknickers and the odd hardy swimmer too.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>THE MUDDY VERDICT&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1500" height="1001" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30187" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors.jpg 1500w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors-800x534.jpg 800w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors-768x513.jpg 768w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wilts/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2023/02/Timbrells-Yard-outdoors-787x525.jpg 787w" sizes="(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></figure>



<p><strong>Good for: </strong>The varied menu and informal, welcoming vibe make <a href="https://timbrellsyard.com/rooms-and-booking" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timbrell’s Yard</a> a great choice for friends and couples. If you want to treat the kids you’ll find a wallet-friendly children’s menu, plus the team are happy to make many of the regular dishes in mini form. Bradford on Avon train station is also a five-minute walk away, making this a great option for non-drivers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Not for:</strong> This isn’t fancy fine dining. It’s delicious, yet down-to-earth – no starched tablecloths or silverware in sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>The damage:</strong> Great value, skilfully cooked food and a good range of prices too. Starters £5/9, while many mains rest around the £19 mark and most puds are £8. Children’s portions come in at around £8, and are generously sized. Rooms start at £98.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><em><a href="https://timbrellsyard.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timbrell’s Yard</a>, 49 St Margaret’s Street, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1DE. Tel: 01225 869492&nbsp;&nbsp;</em></p>


Review: Timbrell’s Yard, Bradford on Avon

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