The very definition of a warm welcome.
Pubs -The very definition of a warm welcome, a refreshing drink and a relaxing atmosphere. I can’t believe it has been six months since I last visited The Harts Boatyard in Surbiton to celebrate the newly refurbished venue.
I would like to say that time flies when you are having fun, but sadly I cannot, a lot has changed since our last pub visit including the launch of my new businesses during lockdown.
Located in the sleepy village of Surbiton.
However, one thing that hasn’t changed is my love for pubs, especially one that is cosy, vibrant and contemporary. The Harts Boatyard may be nestled within the sleepy village of Surbiton, but don’t let that fool you. This much-loved pub has been transformed into a little haven full of sumptuous sofas, warm interiors and delicious pub fayre with a modern twist.
Travel back in time with me.
So, if you are feeling curious and fancy travelling back in time to March 2020 with me to find out what happened when Al and I were invited to a preview night to celebrate the newly refurbished Harts Boatyard Pub in Surbiton, then read on.
March 4th 2020-What happened?
After finishing a long day at work, my husband Alex and I made the journey over to Surbiton, where we were greeted by the soft glow of the pub through the darkness; a very welcoming sight if I have ever seen one on a cold spring evening.
An interior designer’s dream cocktail.
After crossing the threshold into what can only be described as an interior designer’s dream cocktail, where our eyes were treated to vibrant, bold paintings, a roaring fire at the heart of this stunning establishment and a warm smile, it was like coming home.
Pick and Mix Gin Station and outdoor dining.
Of course, like any good home, there was a delightful Gin Station where we could pick and mix ingredients to our heart’s content, but the real treat for my husband was the incredible view overlooking the River Thames. To this day, my husband’s dream is to own a canal boat and moor along the peaceful rivers. So, as you can imagine he was in his element when he saw the outdoor dining area which features its own decking so you can watch boats coming into moor at the quayside.
Cosy hideaways for private functions.
After exploring the cosy hideaways on offer for private functions, admiring the various artwork pieces and sampling a refreshing cocktail at the bar, we decided to make our way upstairs to the main dining area.
A paradise for the senses.
Now, you may think that the dining area was placed upstairs as an afterthought or perhaps to hide the shortcomings of this lovely pub. however, you couldn’t be more wrong. The dining room doesn’t just go up a level from an interior design perspective, but rather the ambience is taken up a notch with its gorgeous peacock feathers, soft mood lighting and thanks to its tiered layout and carpet flooring, it isn’t just a paradise for the eyes, but also for the senses.
They say that when one sense is removed, another one becomes stronger. Now, as someone who has been hard of hearing since the age of 18 months, I can say that this couldn’t be further from the truth.
I was able to enjoy my pub experience just like everyone else.
Thanks to the versatile interior, I was able to enjoy my pub experience just like everyone else. I could engage in conversation with my husband, appreciate the sounds of laughter from the nearby tables, savour the incredible dishes from the new menu and with the turn of my head see down to the lower level where a beautiful fire was crackling away.
The Hart Boatyard offers much more than mere substance. Whilst the dishes and new menu tantalise your taste buds and delight you, they also offer an eclectic mix of flavours which create memories in their own right.
From the sea, land and meat-free menu to the 16oz Chauterbriand steak and refreshing palate cleanser that is delivered in the form of a lemon meringue flamed Alaska dessert, the seasonal menu never fails to deliver exceptional food from the talented chefs.
If you are local to the area then I highly recommend that you check them out and try their small plates and delicious steak which was cooked to perfection.
You can find out how the team have ensured that the venue is COVID-secure for your visit here.
Have you visited The Harts Boatyard yet? I would love to hear what you think. Let’s chat in the comments below.
Thank you to The Harts Boatyard team for having us.
