Gary Kingshott

Gary Kingshott opened The White Horse in Whepstead, near Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk with his wife Di in 2009. Gary initially trained with the French chefs at Mirabelle in Curzon Street, London (in the years before Marco), before meeting Di and running the highly regarded Beehive pub in Horringer for 25 years. During those years Gary couldn't resist buying and converting The Queens Head in Kirtling and owning a small boutique hotel in Bury St Edmunds. The secret to the success and popularity of all of these venues is that Gary has always ensured that great, seasonal ingredients, working with local suppliers, is at the heart of everything he does and Di ensures that the front of house service is attentive and friendly. The White Horse at Whepstead was voted Suffolk Magazine's Best Food Pub in Suffolk 2010. After moving to Whepstead Gary spotted the potential in the large charming pub with its spacious dining rooms, garden, plenty of parking and wonderful rural public footpaths but in dire need of some tlc. Now fully refurbished The White Horse is an ideal country destination to enjoy a well kept Suffolk Ale and a hearty meal. Local suppliers are at the heart of the menu from the chilli jam made in the village to local duck eggs, Suffolk meat, local rabbits and home grown vegetables. Built in the 17th Century, with later Victorian additions, this country pub offers a series of cosy rooms where the walls are adorned with curious objects and art, some especially commissioned, collected through the years, a large spacious copper topped bar, an open fire and comfortable wooden tables and chairs make you feel instantly at home. With a nostalgic nod The Tuck Shop sells sweeties, chocolate and ice-cream - not only essential for the locals with a late night sweet tooth - visiting children with no room for dessert but plenty of room for an ice-lolly will be equally delighted. Expect to see Gary and Di's adored dog Skye who feels perfectly at home gently greeting customers or snoozing in a corner. www.whitehorsewhepstead.co.uk