Harriet asks the questions
The Duke of Cumberlands Head
A proper Cotswolds pub in Clifton, where history, hospitality and seriously good food meet beside the fire.
Sponsored by The Duke of Cumberlands Head
Why did you decide to buy a pub in the first place?
I'd always worked in hospitality and eventually wanted to take the next step and own my own business. I've also always had a real interest in history, and I think pubs play a hugely important role in the history and character of this country. There's something quite special about taking on a pub and becoming part of that tradition.
What's the most ridiculous dish you have thought about putting on the menu?
I'm not sure I've ever come up with anything completely ridiculous! When we first opened, though, I did put ham with a pickled quail's egg on the menu. I thought it was great — although I'm not entirely sure most of our customers agreed!
If money didn't matter, what's the most ridiculous thing you would add to The Duke?
Probably an amazing outdoor kitchen and BBQ station. I'd love to have a proper fire-based kitchen outside, with a big grill and the ability to cook over wood and charcoal. It would be brilliant in the summer and, knowing the British weather, probably equally entertaining in December.
What is the strangest thing a customer has ever asked for?
I'm not sure I can say! But cooking a steak for a Chihuahua would definitely be right up there.
If Jeremy Clarkson walked in on a Friday night, where would you sit him?
Table 12 — our favourite table, on the right-hand side next to the fire. Although I'd probably make sure there was a decent pint waiting for him as well.
If the King walks in at the same time, who gets the better table?
I think everyone gets treated exactly the same here, whether you're the King, Jeremy Clarkson or someone coming in for the very first time. So whoever gets through the door first gets the table!
If you could have any famous person, alive or dead, sitting at the bar one evening, who would it be?
Churchill. I'd love to sit at the bar with him, have a pint and hear some of his stories. I suspect it would be a fairly long evening!
What's your dream for The Duke over the next five years?
To continue growing the business and make it a genuinely successful and financially sustainable pub. There seems to be a strange perception in hospitality that making money or providing a good income for the owner is somehow a bad thing. I don't agree with that. I want The Duke to be successful, employ great people, become a real part of the local community and, most importantly, still be a bloody good pub in five years' time.
