News, Events & Stories

The Fiddlers Journal

Stories from our kitchen and garden, what’s on at the pub, and the best of life in Epping & Epping Forest.

12 November 2026 · 7 min read

À La Carte Dining Guide: Order With Confidence

Use this à la carte dining guide to choose with confidence, pace your meal and enjoy thoughtful food, good wine and relaxed dining at a fine country pub.

10 November 2026 · 7 min read

French English Dishes: A Pub Table Worth Sharing

French English dishes pair familiar pub comfort with French finesse, making every meal feel generous, relaxed and just a little more special in Epping.

8 November 2026 · 7 min read

Wine Lists: Choose a Bottle You Will Enjoy

Wine lists need not be intimidating. Find a bottle for your table, pair it with food and enjoy every glass with confidence at the pub on any occasion.

6 November 2026 · 6 min read

A Country Pub for Casual Drinks Near Epping

Looking for a country pub for casual drinks near Epping? Enjoy real ales, cocktails, fresh coffee and a warm welcome in a proper local setting all year.

4 November 2026 · 7 min read

Beer Garden Versus Indoor Dining: Which Fits?

Choosing beer garden versus indoor dining? Find the right setting for relaxed lunches, family meals, drinks and celebrations in Epping all year round.

2 November 2026 · 7 min read

Pub Private Room Versus Marquee for Your Party

Choosing a pub private room versus marquee? Compare comfort, atmosphere, cost and weather planning for a celebration your guests will enjoy.

31 October 2026 · 7 min read

Bookings Versus Walk-Ins: Which Suits Your Visit?

Bookings versus walk-ins at a country pub: learn when to reserve, when to drop by, and how to plan a relaxed meal, drink or celebration around Epping.

29 October 2026 · 6 min read

Is Outdoor Pub Dining Heated? What to Expect

Is outdoor pub dining heated? Learn what keeps pub terraces comfortable, from covered patios to heated dining domes, and what to check before you book.

27 October 2026 · 7 min read

How to Arrange a Wake Reception with Care

Learn how to arrange a wake reception with thoughtful food, timings and a welcoming setting, so family and friends can gather with care after a funeral.

25 October 2026 · 7 min read

How to Pair Cask Ale with Great Pub Food

Learn how to pair cask ale with classic pub dishes, from fish and chips to Sunday roast, using flavour, texture and balance for a better meal at home.

23 October 2026 · 6 min read

Real Ales Versus Craft Beer: What's the Difference?

Real ales versus craft beer explained: learn how brewing, dispense and flavour shape your perfect pint at the pub, from cask tradition to modern styles.

21 October 2026 · 7 min read

Country Pub Menu Ideas for Every Occasion

Country pub menu ideas for generous roasts, relaxed lunches and memorable celebrations, bringing comforting flavours and a little occasion to every table.

19 October 2026 · 7 min read

Gift Voucher Dinner Ideas for Every Occasion

Looking for gift voucher dinner ideas? Give a relaxed Epping evening of excellent food, good drinks and time together at a historic country pub nearby.

17 October 2026 · 7 min read

10 Best Pub Dishes for Sharing with Friends

Find the best pub dishes for sharing, from crisp starters to generous mains, and plan a leisurely meal with friends and family around Epping and beyond!

15 October 2026 · 7 min read

Best Romantic Dining Settings for a Special Date

Find the best romantic dining settings in Epping, from cosy corners to garden tables and private domes, with tips for planning a memorable date night.

13 October 2026 · 7 min read

How to Reserve Outdoor Tables for a Great Pub Meal

Learn how to reserve outdoor tables with confidence, from choosing the right time to sharing your needs, so your pub meal feels relaxed from arrival to last orders.

11 October 2026 · 7 min read

How to Choose a Children's Menu That Works

Wondering how to choose children's menu dishes? A practical guide for parents seeking tasty, balanced options and a relaxed family meal out in Epping.

9 October 2026 · 7 min read

How to Choose Cocktails With Dinner Well

Learn how to choose cocktails with dinner, matching flavour, texture and occasion for a relaxed, memorable meal at your favourite local pub with care.

7 October 2026 · 7 min read

What Is À La Carte? A Guide to Dining Your Way

Wondering what is à la carte? Learn how this flexible dining style works, what to expect from the menu, and why it suits relaxed meals and celebrations.

5 October 2026 · 7 min read

Choosing Group Dining Venues for Every Occasion

Looking for group dining venues near Epping? Plan a relaxed gathering with generous food, flexible spaces, drinks and a warm welcome for every guest there.

3 October 2026 · 7 min read

What Makes Real Ale Worth Ordering at the Pub?

Real ale rewards patience: learn how cask beer is brewed, kept and served, plus how to choose a fresh pint for a proper pub visit across Epping today.

1 October 2026 · 7 min read

Planning a Birthday Dinner at a Country Pub

Plan a birthday dinner at country pub near Epping with great food, warm service, drinks for every guest and room to celebrate properly together in comfort.

29 September 2026 · 6 min read

Best Meals for Children at a Family Pub

Looking for the best meals for children in Epping? Find satisfying, family-friendly choices that make eating out easy, relaxed and enjoyable for all.

27 September 2026 · 7 min read

Top Occasions for Pub Venue Hire in Epping

From birthdays to wake receptions, see the top occasions for pub venue hire in Epping and how to plan a relaxed, memorable local gathering with ease.

25 September 2026 · 7 min read

Guide to Planning a Relaxed Anniversary Meal

A guide to planning a relaxed anniversary meal, with easy ideas for choosing the right table, food, drinks and time to simply enjoy each other in peace.

23 September 2026 · 7 min read

Best Drinks to Pair with Pub Meals for Every Plate

From a crisp pint with fish and chips to a bright cocktail beside a Sunday roast, find the best drinks to pair with pub meals for every occasion today.

21 September 2026 · 7 min read

Heated Outdoor Dining Review for Epping Evenings

Our heated outdoor dining review explains what makes a garden table feel special in Epping, from warm domes and seasonal food to the right occasion too.

19 September 2026 · 7 min read

Is a Country Pub Good for Group Meals?

Is a country pub good for group meals? Find out what makes a relaxed, memorable gathering, from menus and space to service, drinks and easy planning.

17 September 2026 · 7 min read

Best Occasion Meals at Pubs for Every Celebration

Plan the best occasion meals at pubs with seasonal food, Sunday roasts, thoughtful drinks and welcoming spaces for birthdays and family gatherings alike.

15 September 2026 · 7 min read

Are Pubs Suitable for Private Parties in Epping?

Are pubs suitable for private parties? Find out what makes a pub venue work for birthdays, family celebrations, work gatherings and more in Epping today.

13 September 2026 · 6 min read

Winter Dome Dining Experience at The Merry Fiddlers

Plan a winter dome dining experience in Epping with heated comfort, delicious seasonal food and drinks, perfect for dates, family meals and celebrations.

11 September 2026 · 7 min read

How to Choose Drinks for a Celebration Dinner

Learn how to choose drinks for a celebration dinner, with aperitifs, wine, ales and alcohol-free choices to suit every guest and course on the table.

9 September 2026 · 7 min read

How to Plan Sunday Lunch Without the Rush

Learn how to plan sunday lunch with less last-minute rushing, from choosing your guests and menu to booking a welcoming Epping table everyone will enjoy.

7 September 2026 · 6 min read

A Guide to Pub Dining Experiences in Epping

Our guide to pub dining experiences helps you choose great food, drinks and atmosphere for relaxed family meals, dates and celebrations in Epping alike.

5 September 2026 · 7 min read

Can Dogs Go in Pub Bars? A Guide for Owners

Can dogs go in pub bars? Learn how UK rules, licence conditions, food areas and good manners shape a relaxed, dog-friendly pub visit for everyone alike.

3 September 2026 · 6 min read

How to Organise Family Meals Without the Fuss

Learn how to organise family meals with flexible weekly plans, calmer shopping and easy ways to make time around the table feel special in busy homes.

1 September 2026 · 7 min read

Private Hire or Restaurant Booking: Which Fits?

Choosing private hire or restaurant booking in Epping? Compare the best setting for family meals, celebrations, work gatherings and special occasions.

30 August 2026 · 7 min read

A Guide to Private Dining Occasions in Epping

Plan a memorable celebration with this guide to private dining occasions, from choosing the right setting and menu to welcoming every guest in comfort.

28 August 2026 · 7 min read

Pub Dining Versus Chain Restaurants Compared

Pub dining versus chain restaurants compared: weigh atmosphere, menu choice, service and value when choosing a relaxed meal out around Epping with ease.

26 August 2026 · 6 min read

A Guide to Dog Friendly Dining in Epping

Our guide to dog friendly dining in Epping covers planning, pub etiquette and simple ways to enjoy a relaxed meal out with your four-legged companion, too.

24 August 2026 · 7 min read

What to Expect From Private Hire Catering

Learn what to expect from private hire catering, from menus and drinks to timings, service and the thoughtful details that make celebrations feel special.

22 August 2026 · 6 min read

What Makes a Great Kids Play Area Pub for Families?

Looking for a kids play area pub near Epping? Find out what makes a family lunch feel relaxed, welcoming and properly enjoyable for everyone locally.

20 August 2026 · 6 min read

Our Sunday Lunch Review for Epping Families

Our sunday lunch review considers roast quality, service, drinks and atmosphere, so your Epping table feels relaxed, generous and properly special locally.

18 August 2026 · 7 min read

How to Book Private Hire for a Special Occasion

Learn how to book private hire for birthdays, family gatherings and work events, with practical questions that help you choose the right local venue well.

16 August 2026 · 7 min read

Top Reasons to Book a Historic Pub Near Epping

From relaxed lunches to celebrations, discover the top reasons to book a historic pub for generous food, proper drinks and a setting with character too.

14 August 2026 · 7 min read

10 Best Dishes for a Relaxed Pub Date Night

Choosing the best dishes for a pub date night is about more than the menu. Find sharing-friendly, satisfying choices for a relaxed evening across Epping.

12 August 2026 · 7 min read

Pub Lunch Versus Restaurant Lunch - Which Suits?

Choosing between a pub lunch versus restaurant lunch? Compare food, atmosphere, pace and occasion, then enjoy quality dining in Epping's countryside too.

10 August 2026 · 6 min read

What Makes a Restaurant with Pub Atmosphere Work?

Choose a restaurant with pub atmosphere for relaxed drinks, proper food and welcoming service - ideal for family meals, dates and celebrations in Epping.

8 August 2026 · 7 min read

Top Family Friendly Pub Features That Matter

From space to play to a menu everyone enjoys, the top family friendly pub features make a relaxed meal out feel easy, welcoming and special together.

6 August 2026 · 6 min read

How to Choose a Dog Friendly Pub for a Proper Outing

Learn how to choose a dog friendly pub with good food, calm spaces and thoughtful service, so every family outing feels relaxed and welcoming for all.

4 August 2026 · 6 min read

What Makes a Great Sunday Roast? The Details Matter

What makes a great Sunday roast? From crisp roasties to rich gravy and warm service, learn the details that turn a pub lunch into a proper Sunday occasion.

2 August 2026 · 6 min read

Dog Friendly Pub Review: A Better Day Out

Read our dog friendly pub review for what makes a relaxed country stop worthwhile, from garden space and water bowls to good food and considerate service.

31 July 2026 · 8 min read

Can You Hire a Pub for Parties? What to Know

Can you hire a pub for parties? Find out what to ask about space, menus, drinks and timings, then plan a relaxed celebration your guests will love too.

29 July 2026 · 6 min read

How to Organise Family Pub Lunches Without Fuss

Learn how to organise family pub lunches that feel relaxed, well fed and genuinely enjoyable, from booking the right table to timing every detail well.

27 July 2026 · 7 min read

What Makes a Family Friendly Restaurant Work?

Looking for a family friendly restaurant in Epping? Find details that make meals out easier, from welcoming service to space, good food and time to relax.

25 July 2026 · 7 min read

Wedding Reception Pub Epping for a Relaxed Celebration

Plan a wedding reception pub Epping guests will love, with thoughtful advice on food, drinks, space and the warm, relaxed atmosphere that matters most.

23 July 2026 · 8 min read

Your Guide to Planning a Pub Family Meal

A guide to planning a pub family meal, from choosing the right time and table to keeping children happy and making every occasion feel special for everyone.

21 July 2026 · 7 min read

How to Book a Heated Outdoor Dining Experience

Learn how to book a heated outdoor dining experience, from choosing the right time and group size to enjoying a warm, relaxed meal at The Merry Fiddlers.

19 July 2026 · 6 min read

A Country Pub Dining Review Worth Reading

Our country pub dining review considers the details that make a meal memorable: honest cooking, warm service, proper ales and space to relax together.

17 July 2026 · 7 min read

Guide to Choosing a Historic Dining Venue

Use this guide to choosing a historic dining venue to find welcoming character, excellent food and flexible spaces for meals and celebrations near home.

15 July 2026 · 7 min read

A Historic Country Pub Experience in Epping

Plan a historic country pub experience in Epping, with hearty cooking, well-kept drinks, a welcoming garden and space for every occasion to savour.

13 July 2026 · 7 min read

How to Book a Pub Meal for Groups Without Fuss

Learn how to book a pub meal for groups, from choosing the right table and menu to sharing guest details and making plans easy for everyone attending.

11 July 2026 · 6 min read

Where to Celebrate Father’s Day Lunch Near Epping

Wondering where to celebrate Father's Day lunch near Epping? Choose good food, a warm welcome and room for everyone to relax and enjoy the day together.

9 July 2026 · 8 min read

How to Choose a Pub for Sunday Lunch

Learn how to choose a pub for Sunday lunch, from roast quality and atmosphere to service, booking, parking and family-friendly details.

7 July 2026 · 7 min read

Gift Vouchers for Restaurants Epping

Looking for gift vouchers for restaurants Epping? Give great food, warm hospitality and a local dining experience that suits almost any occasion.

5 July 2026 · 7 min read

How to Pick a Venue for Anniversary Dinner

Learn how to pick a venue for anniversary dinner with tips on atmosphere, menu, service, privacy, budget and location for a relaxed celebration.

3 July 2026 · 7 min read

Traditional Pub with Modern Menu Done Well

A traditional pub with modern menu offers heritage, comfort and better dining - ideal for relaxed lunches, family meals and special occasions.

1 July 2026 · 7 min read

How to Choose a Pub for Anniversary Dinner

Looking for a pub for anniversary dinner? Find out what makes the evening feel special, from atmosphere and menus to service, drinks and setting.

29 June 2026 · 8 min read

How to Plan a Date Night Dinner Well

Learn how to plan a date night dinner that feels relaxed, thoughtful and memorable, from setting the mood to choosing food, drinks and timing.