The STag and Huntsman Story
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The Stag & Huntsman has been at the heart of Hambleden for generations. In 2024, it was taken on by David Holliday and Alex Sergeant, two friends with a shared passion for proper pub food, warm hospitality, and creating a place that feels genuinely rooted in its surroundings.

David and Alex believe that a great country pub should feel like an extension of the village and the land around it. Their approach is simple: work with the best local and regenerative suppliers they can find, cook with care, and create an atmosphere where people feel welcome whether they’re popping in for a pint or staying for a few nights.

 Our Approach to Food & Drink

We believe the best food starts with great ingredients. That’s why we work closely with a small group of trusted suppliers who share our values around quality and sustainability.

Much of the game we serve comes from Culden Faw Estate, right here in Hambleden, and from Ben Alder Estate in the Scottish Highlands. We also work with Paddock Farm for our beef, Rebellion Brewery in Marlow for our lager and ales, and Woods Bros for sustainable house spirits.

Wherever possible, we choose produce that is locally sourced and regeneratively farmed. We cook a lot of our food over open fire because we believe it simply tastes better, and we let the seasons guide what appears on the menu.

A Place for the Village and Beyond

The Stag & Huntsman isn’t just a pub — it’s part of the fabric of Hambleden. David and Alex are committed to running it as a proper community pub while also creating a destination that people are happy to travel to.

Whether you’re a local dropping in for a midweek pint, a walker looking for a good lunch, or someone staying in one of our rooms for a weekend in the Chilterns, we want you to feel at home.

We’re not trying to be the fanciest pub in the area. We’re focused on doing the simple things well — good food, good drink, and genuine hospitality.

David & Alex