It marked the final phase of redevelopment for the Chew Valley site, following a three-year project that saw the former Michelin-starred Pony & Trap transformed into a restaurant and cookery school.
The venue, which reopened previously in 2024, was also named marked number 8 in the top 50 Gatropub list in 2020.
New dining experience
The renovated venue now features ornamental and edible gardens, beehives, and orchards, with the addition of an orangery allowing for greater control over ingredients sourced close to the kitchen.
The 60-cover orangery style restaurant space offers natural light and views of the Chew Valley hills.
The menu showcases produce-led, modern British cooking. Moving away from traditional tasting menus, the evening dinner menu, priced at £60 per person, is set to offer a combination of à la carte and chef-selected dishes, changing daily based on seasonality.
A choice of starters, a garden salad, main courses, optional cheese and dessert, along with a welcome snack and a dedicated ‘Baker’s Table’ will be offered.
Meanwhile, an à la carte lunch menu and a set lunch menu are also available, as well as Sunday lunch.
Extensive refurbishments
The Pony co-owner and chef Josh Eggleton MBE, said: “Menus explore nostalgia and familiarity with elevated and playful exuberance, changing daily to reflect produce and seasonality.
“The Pony experience has been honed over nearly 20 years and Josh and Holly are excited to welcome people into this next chapter for the restaurant.”
The three-acre site also hosts volunteer programs and community groups, and acts as a training centre for The Pony Group, which includes Salt & Malt, The Kensington Arms, Root, and The Pelican pub.
The cookery school offers various classes and experiences, with a key focus on the gardens. Gardener Tim works with chefs to emphasise flavour and quality, adhering to a no-dig and chemical-free ethos.
Co-owner Holly Eggleton added: “The aim was to serve their loyal customers and community with a diverse new offering.”
