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Tucked away in the charming village of Wymeswold, Leicestershire, Hammer & Pincers offers a perfect mix of great food and cosy, rustic charm. Set in a historic building that has stood for centuries, this well-loved restaurant is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and carefully crafted British dishes.
The Setting: A Classic English Village
Wymeswold is a picture-perfect English village, full of history and beautiful countryside. Located in the Charnwood district, it’s home to some of the best Georgian architecture in Leicestershire, especially along Far Street. At the heart of the village is the 14th-century St. Mary’s Church, surrounded by rolling fields that make it a peaceful escape from city life.
The Atmosphere: Warm and Inviting
Walking into Hammer & Pincers, you immediately feel at home. The space is a blend of old and new, with exposed wooden beams, soft lighting, and stylish furnishings that create a cosy yet elegant setting. Everything about the design shows attention to detail, making the experience feel special from the moment you step inside.
The Food: Thoughtful and Flavourful
The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, bringing out the best in classic British dishes. Our meal began with drinks at the bar, setting the stage for a relaxed and delicious experience.
Set Lunch Menu Selections:
Seasonal Amuse Bouche
A small but flavourful bite that hinted at the seasonal ingredients to come.
House Bread with Cultured Butter
Warm, crusty bread served with rich, creamy butter — simple but satisfying.
Starters:
- Confit Chicken Terrine, Liver Parfait, Pickled Shimeji – A rich and smooth combination, with pickled mushrooms adding just the right amount of acidity.
- Twice Baked Lincolnshire Poacher Soufflé – Light, cheesy, and packed with flavour, showcasing a fantastic local cheese.
Mains:
- Roasted Lamb Rump, Pickled Cockle, Wild Allium, Turnip – Tender and well-seasoned lamb with fresh, flavourful accompaniments.
- Tandoori Grilled Market Fish, Red Lentil, Cauliflower – A creative mix of spices and textures that worked beautifully together.
Desserts:
- Sticky Toffee Pudding, Pedro Ximenez Butterscotch, Nutmeg Ice Cream – A classic done right, with rich butterscotch and perfectly spiced ice cream.
- Duo of Artisanal Cheeses, Traditional Accompaniments – A carefully chosen selection of cheeses with great pairings.
To finish, we enjoyed coffee and petit fours — a small but elegant final touch. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showing real skill and attention to detail.
More Dining Options
Besides the lunch menu, Hammer & Pincers offers a range of dining experiences for different occasions:
- Dinner Set Menu (Tuesday to Friday): A structured menu featuring seasonal dishes.
- Dinner Grazing Menu (Tuesday to Friday): A more relaxed option with small plates to sample.
- Saturday Evening Grazing Menu: A special weekend menu designed for a leisurely dining experience.
- Hammer Classics Nights: Themed nights celebrating timeless dishes, such as the Fish En Croute, which will be part of the menu every Tuesday in March.
- ‘Hammer-Kase’ Menu (Friday, 28th March): A creative and indulgent tasting menu.
Stay the Night: Cosy Accommodations
For those who want to turn their visit into a countryside getaway, The Hammer & Pincers offers two beautifully designed rooms for an overnight stay. Guests can wake up to a delicious breakfast made with the same commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a perfect option for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the full experience.
A Must-Visit Spot in Leicestershire
Hammer & Pincers is a true hidden gem, offering an incredible dining experience in a beautiful setting. With its welcoming atmosphere, carefully designed interiors, and menu full of seasonal flavours, it’s a must-visit for food lovers. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one place you’ll want to return to again and again.
