Saracen’s Head

Right in the middle of Southwell, opposite the Minster, the Saracen’s Head has had some ups and downs in its long history, but its present owners have done a great job in reviving this ancient inn. The inn’s main claim to historic fame is as the place where the doomed King Charles I had some of his Scottish rebels round for dinner – but it did not stop them from handing him over to the Parliamentarians at Newark the day after; his execution was to follow.Today, the inn’s public rooms have  been done out in proud vintage style, beneath a fine timber ceiling, where a good-value, modern British menu features main courses like corn-fed chicken supreme with potatoes, beans, peas and asparagus in a white-wine sauce.. Afternoon tea is offered at the weekend with oodles of jam and cream. Very comfy.