A Friendship Turned Foodie Partnership
Tucked in the heart of Henley-on-Thames, The Three Tuns has always held a special place in the town’s story. Now, it’s beginning a fresh chapter, one that started over 25 years ago with a simple joke between neighbours.
Nigel Sutcliffe, former director of The Fat Duck and now owner of The Oarsman in Marlow, was a regular at Gabriel Machin, Henley’s beloved butcher. Over the years, Nigel and Barry Wagner, the butcher’s owner, would joke about one day taking over the pub next door. So, when the opportunity finally arose, they grabbed it, and a new era for The Three Tuns was born.
Backed by Nigel’s vast hospitality experience and Barry’s impeccable produce, the pair are bringing something truly special to the table (quite literally), with an approach rooted in quality, character, and community.
A Menu Inspired by the Butcher’s Block
The Three Tuns’ menu is a celebration of local sourcing and starting with what’s on offer just next door. Head Chef Scott Smith is known for crafting elegant dishes from the finest local ingredients, and now he’s working in lockstep with Gabriel Machin’s butchery and smokehouse.
Diners can expect premium cuts of meat, outstanding fresh fish, and a produce-led menu that changes with the seasons. Highlights include Devilled Kidneys on Toast, Steak Tartare, Pork Chop with Braised White Beans and Gremolata, and sharing joints carved at the table – I had the Monkfish and the flavour balances were remarkable! A small but exceptional dessert menu rounds off the experience.
Drinks That Reflect the Region
Pairing perfectly with the food is an equally impressive drinks list, shining a light on local and sustainable producers. Expect a rotating selection of house ales, IPAs, lagers, and ciders alongside carefully curated English sparkling wines, natural and biodynamic bottles, and standout cocktails.
A Love Letter to Local Produce
From smoked salmon and eel prepared in a brick kiln behind the butcher’s, to asparagus from Peachcroft Farm and artisan bread from Tamsin at Bosley Patch—the Three Tuns is a true ambassador of Oxfordshire’s best.
Bosley Patch is also supplying beautiful seasonal veg like cavolo nero, tomatoes, and beetroot, which will feature throughout the summer. It’s not just about proximity; it’s about passion for provenance and building real relationships with local growers and makers.
Reviving a Community Favourite
More than just a great pub, The Three Tuns aims to be a social hub for Henley once again. Whether it’s a relaxed pint after work or a memorable family meal, the new vision is warm, welcoming, and inclusive.
Sundays are set to become something of a local tradition, with juicy Boatshed burgers and a lineup of live music from talented local artists; perfect for winding down the weekend in style.
Behind the Scenes: A Few Bumps in the Road
Of course, no great refurbishment comes without a few hiccups. From minor issues like a leaking beer line to the near-disastrous discovery of an unsuitable gas meter just weeks before opening, the team faced their fair share of challenges.
But with quick thinking (and some serious problem-solving), everything came together just in time- perhaps proof that passion and perseverance really do pay off?
Three Words to Sum It All Up?
When asked the team – how they would describe the new Three Tuns experience in just three words? “Does great hospitality and conviviality work?” And I think it does. It’s what defines the atmosphere from the kitchen to the bar, from your first visit to your fiftieth.
Plan your visit to The Three Tuns today and experience this exciting new chapter for yourself.
