Updown Farmhouse Menu, Hours & Reviews UK

Updown Farmhouse is a countryside restaurant and retreat located near Deal in Kent. This farmhouse restaurant has become one of the most talked-about dining spots thanks to its charming rural setting and hyper-seasonal British cuisine. Whether you’re visiting for brunch, dinner, or a special weekend meal, the experience here feels genuinely warm and relaxed.

If you’re planning a visit, knowing the restaurant’s hours, menu, and reviews will help you make the most of your time. Updown Farmhouse combines rustic charm with modern dining, making it ideal for couples, families, or anyone who loves food that celebrates the seasons.

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Location & Setting

Set in Betteshanger, just outside Deal, the restaurant sits in a beautifully restored farmhouse surrounded by gardens and countryside views. It’s part of a boutique “restaurant with rooms” concept, so guests can dine and stay overnight. The atmosphere is calm, elegant, and unpretentious — think wood-fired aromas, soft lighting, and a vine-laden conservatory perfect for long, cozy meals.

Opening Hours

The restaurant has flexible dining times depending on the day and season. Below is the most up-to-date schedule as of October:

Hours may change slightly during holidays or seasonal breaks, so it’s best to confirm via their official website before visiting.

Booking & Reservations

Due to limited seating and high demand, booking in advance is strongly recommended. You can reserve a table through their website or by phone. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted for lunch, but weekends and dinner slots often fill up quickly. For larger groups or private dining, guests are advised to contact the team directly for tailored arrangements.

The Menu Experience

Updown Farmhouse is celebrated for its seasonal, locally sourced menu that changes every few weeks. The chefs craft dishes that highlight produce from Kent farms, local fisheries, and their own garden. You’ll find classic English comfort with a refined edge — it’s food that feels both familiar and special.

Menu Philosophy & Cuisine Style

The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around “hyper-seasonal dining.” Everything on the plate reflects what’s fresh at that moment. Expect wood-fired dishes, homemade bread, and ingredients that travel just a few miles from farm to table. The style is modern British with Mediterranean influence, simple yet full of flavor.

Sample Menu Breakdown

Here’s a look at what you might find on the menu:

The restaurant also offers set menus for dinner and special events, which include three or four courses paired with local wines.

Special Nights

Guests love Updown Farmhouse’s themed evenings, especially Steak Night Fridays and Sunday Roast Lunches. The steak night features grass-fed British beef, cooked over wood fire, served with hand-cut chips and local vegetables. Sundays bring comforting roast chicken, Yorkshire pudding, and seasonal sides — a true farmhouse treat.

Drinks, Wine List & Cocktails

The drinks menu complements the food beautifully. Expect a handpicked wine list featuring European and English vineyards, along with classic cocktails and local craft beers. Their house gin cocktail and sparkling English wine are guest favorites, perfect for toasting a relaxing countryside evening.

Visiting & Atmosphere

The Updown Farmhouse experience is more than just food — it’s about slowing down and enjoying the moment. Every corner of the restaurant feels designed for comfort and connection.

Dining Environment

The main dining room opens into a vine-covered conservatory where sunlight spills through the glass. In winter, wood fires create a cozy warmth, and in summer, the outdoor garden tables offer fresh air and scenic views. The design mixes rustic wood tones with minimal modern accents, giving the restaurant a timeless appeal.

Suitable For Who?

Updown Farmhouse suits almost everyone who enjoys relaxed fine dining.

• Couples find it perfect for romantic weekends.
  
• Families appreciate the simple, well-cooked food and open space.
  
• Groups or events can book private rooms for special dinners.
  

This versatility makes it one of Kent’s most popular rural getaways.

Practical Info

• Parking: Free on-site parking is available for guests.
  
• Dress Code: Smart casual is ideal — think country chic, not formal.
  
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are available on request.
  The staff are happy to adjust dishes where possible, making it a welcoming spot for all diners.
  

Reviews & What Guests Are Saying

Online reviews for Updown Farmhouse are overwhelmingly positive. Diners consistently praise the menu creativity, presentation, and tranquil surroundings. However, as with any popular restaurant, there are minor criticisms worth noting.

Summary of Positive Reviews

Guests highlight the restaurant’s “farm-to-table” ethos and friendly service. Many mention the freshness of ingredients and the peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often describe the meals as “memorable” and “worth the journey.” Couples celebrating anniversaries or birthdays particularly love the private dining areas and countryside charm.

Common Complaints or Notes

A few visitors mention that booking can be tricky due to limited availability, especially during weekends. Some note that prices are on the higher side, though most agree the quality justifies the cost. Because the menu changes frequently, a favorite dish might not always be available — something to remember if you plan to return.

Value for Money & Comparison

Compared with similar countryside restaurants in Kent, Updown Farmhouse offers excellent value for its setting and quality. While not cheap, it provides an experience that blends fine dining with rustic simplicity. It stands out from more formal Michelin-star venues by offering warmth and accessibility alongside refinement.

Tips & Recommendations

Planning your visit right can make your meal even more enjoyable.

Best Time to Go

For a peaceful lunch, visit on a Thursday or Friday afternoon, when the restaurant is less busy. Weekend dinners are livelier and great for date nights. During spring and summer, the conservatory tables are in high demand — book those early if you want the best view.

How to Get There & Where to Park

Updown Farmhouse is about ten minutes by car from Deal or Sandwich in Kent. If you’re coming from London, the train to Deal takes around 90 minutes, followed by a short taxi ride. On-site parking is free and usually sufficient for guests staying overnight.

Special Occasions & Events

The restaurant occasionally hosts private dining, intimate weddings, and seasonal tasting nights. These events combine curated menus with matching wines, making them ideal for celebrations. Check the website or their Instagram for upcoming themed evenings or guest chef collaborations.

Conclusion

Updown Farmhouse remains one of Kent’s most delightful countryside dining experiences. From its welcoming farmhouse ambiance to its hyper-seasonal dishes, it represents everything guests love about British hospitality done right. Whether you’re stopping by for a hearty Sunday roast, a romantic dinner, or a weekend retreat, every visit feels thoughtfully crafted.

FAQs about Updown Farmhouse Restaurant

Q1: What are the current opening hours for Updown Farmhouse?
Updown Farmhouse is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Breakfast runs from 8:00 AM, lunch until around 3:00 PM, and dinner is served until 9:30 PM on weekends. It remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Always check the official website for seasonal hour updates.

Q2: What type of food does Updown Farmhouse serve?
The restaurant focuses on hyper-seasonal British cuisine made with locally sourced produce. Dishes are often wood-fired and change regularly to reflect what’s fresh from Kent farms and nearby fisheries.

Q3: Does Updown Farmhouse offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes are available. The team accommodates dietary needs with prior notice, ensuring everyone can enjoy the full farmhouse dining experience.

Q4: How can I book a table at Updown Farmhouse?
You can reserve a table online through their official website or by calling directly. Due to limited seating, early booking is recommended — especially for weekend dinners and special events.

Q5: What are the most popular dishes at Updown Farmhouse?
Guests love the wood-fired chicken, seasonal risotto, and lemon posset for dessert. On themed nights, the steak and Sunday roast are clear favorites.

Q6: Is Updown Farmhouse suitable for families and special occasions?
Absolutely. The relaxed countryside setting makes it perfect for couples, families, or small gatherings. They also offer private dining options for birthdays and anniversaries.