Old blueprints of historic venue cross section

From the grand origins of a Victorian kitchen to a contemporary restaurant and bar. The MCR holds dear its history and heritage.

The Early Years

Back in the original Victorian kitchen that serviced the Inn’s dining, you would often see roasted meats turning on the spit at the fireplace and a brigade of chefs preparing feasts for the members. The Black Books (the Inn’s official records) refer many times to the fayre being eaten in Hall. The architecture dates back to 1845 and was officially opened by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. A mezzanine floor was created in 1939, making space for what was then called the “Bar Common Room”. You can still see the original fireplace canopy featured near the restaurant entrance.

Sign saying the Victorian kitchen in square with floral decorations

Black and white illustration of people working in kitchen

When visiting the MCR look up! You’ll see some intricate detailing in the vaulted stone ceiling that was brought back to its former glory in the recent refurbishment. Drunken cooks, hops, vines and fabled characters adorn the ceiling’s stone joinery.

From historic to contemporary and all that's in between

In more recent years, refurbishments have changed the face of the MCR into that which you see today. In 2018 extensive work was undertaken to literally peel back layers of centuries old paint, dirt and kitchen soot to reveal the original stone works as they were first built. The redesign encapsulated historic points seen throughout the Inn such as the linen fold bar design and the brickwork pattern at the bar which echo the MCR’s heritage.

Sign saying the refurbishments in square with floral decorations

Member of staff looking at restaurant while still under construction

Present Day

The present design took 18 months to complete but was well worth the wait. We re-opened back in 2019, with the look and feel of the MCR changed to reflect its history and heritage. The restaurant shares design features found within buildings on the estate. We’re proud to have completed this journey, and we look forward welcoming you to the MCR.