Inn the Park

Take the wrong turn in St James's Park and you might think you've happened upon a secret sauna. Oliver Peyton – owner of Mash – has landed a wooden spaceship in the middle of the Queen's front yard. Thankfully, he has also filled it to the brim with the best British food he could find. This restaurant/café is in one of the most stunning natural settings that London has to offer. You half expect David Attenborough to murmur in your ear, as you cast an eye over the pelicans and black swans, while a squirrel scurries up yer sleeve. The food is fantastic, if a little steeply priced – a couple of £9 starters –ouch –. Itchy had rabbit and prune terrine, bronzed chicken with parsnip mash and a hearty rhubarb crumble. However, there's no excuse to plead poor, because there's a grab'n'go self–service buffet and a coffee bar for those of us lacking a trust fund. No one can quibble with a hefty sausage roll for £2.50. Inn the Park is a veritable oasis in the smog. Raise a cup o'cha to the Queen, and kick back to watch the leaves fall.

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