The Sunday roast is an absolute British institution – often best enjoyed in a classic local pub.
Wimbledon Village is the perfect spot for Sunday lunch out, with a great range of options, whether you’re after Michelin star quality, a lazy afternoon with the papers, good vegan options or a great range of wines and craft beers.
A bit of history
Sitting down to a family Sunday lunch (often after church) is a tradition you’ll find across Europe, but the UK is unique in centring the event around the roast. It’s thought the meal originated in the late 18th century. People would usually fast before church. They’d place a piece of meat to roast with potatoes and other root vegetables before the service. Returning from church, most likely ravenous, they’d make the gravy from the juices and serve it up.
There’s a wealth of great pubs located in Wimbledon Village, and you can get a decent Sunday lunch in most of them. If you’re wondering where to eat in Wimbledon, here are a few places you might like to try:
The Fox and Grapes
The Fox and Grapes is a cosy independent gastropub and hotel right beside Wimbledon Common. Its Sunday lunches are legendary and usually include a choice of three roast meats. A standard a la carte menu is also available featuring fish and vegetarian options. The kitchen is run by Michelin-starred chef director Paul Merrett.
The Dog and Fox
This large pub right on the high street is a Wimbledon Village staple with a popular beer garden. This too is a boutique hotel. Sunday lunch is served from 12 noon until close – or until they run out. There’s a good selection of draught and craft beers as well as local spirits too.
The Crooked Billet
Overlooking the common, this historic pub is popular for its seasonal British fare and cosy ambience. The Sunday lunch menu includes Aberdeen Angus sirloin, a trio or roasts and a vegan mushroom, spinach and lentil Wellington.
The Hand in Hand
Right next door is another classic; the Hand in Hand, which reopened on 2 April after a refurbishment. The menu promises, succulent beef, mouth-watering veg wellington and two-egg yorkshires. Dogs are more than welcome and will receive a complementary biscuit.
The Rose and Crown
Close to the common and the shops, the Rose is a popular spot to meet friends, watch sport or sit in the beer garden. Sunday lunch options include a duo of lamb to share and beetroot and fennel tart. All meals are served with goose-fat potatoes, celeriac puree and buttered savoy. There are no reservations for Sunday lunch.
The Ivy Café
Not strictly a pub, but worth a mention, the village branch of this classic British chain opened in 2016, bringing its relaxed café-style dining. There’s no Sunday roast menu, but brunch is available from 11am with a wide choice of options including rib-eye on the bone and roast chicken – the a la carte dinner is from 4pm. The vegetarian and vegan menu is served all day and includes sweet potato Keralan curry and roast butternut.
The Firestables
You’ll find this modern British eatery just off the high street. Sunday lunch options include roast sirloin, Slow Wicks Manor pork belly, crown of English rose turkey – or a trio of all three. Standard pub choices are also available. The Firstables is child and dog friendly.
If you’re thinking of a move to Wimbledon Village, a walk on the common followed by a spot of Sunday lunch will certainly give you a feel for the place. To find out more about the properties we have available, in the village and around, please contact us.
