An Autumn Walk and a Sunday Roast

There is a particular kind of autumn Sunday that many people look for: a brisk walk through the fields, damp boots, and a table waiting at the end of it. Travel writers and pub groups across Britain have been promoting exactly that idea this season. The Chestnut Group, for example, has published a guide called “Autumn walks that end with a Sunday roast”, and national news sites have been running similar features on walks and roasts.

If you live within reach of north Hertfordshire or south Cambridgeshire, it is an easy day to organise.

Pick a route that suits the group

Odsey sits in open, gently rolling countryside between Baldock and Royston, and there are footpaths in every direction. We would suggest checking an up-to-date Ordnance Survey map or a walking app before you set out, as paths and field conditions change with the weather.

A few things to decide:

• Distance. A two-hour walk is plenty for most families. Allow more time if you have children or are walking after heavy rain.
• Circular or one way. A circular route lets you leave the car at the inn. A one-way walk works well if you are coming by train.
• Terrain. Autumn fields can be slippery. Choose a route you are comfortable with in the conditions.

What to wear and bring

Layers matter more than any single heavy coat. Pack a waterproof, a hat, and a spare pair of dry socks for afterwards. Sturdy footwear with a good grip makes the walk far more pleasant.

It is also sensible to carry water, a charged phone and a copy of your route. Days are shortening, so check sunset times and plan to finish well before dusk.

Timing the day

Sunday roasts at the Jester are served from 12pm, with the last sit down at 3pm. A relaxed plan might look like this:

1. Around 10.30am: set off on your walk.
2. Around 12.30pm: return to Odsey, kick off muddy boots and warm up.
3. From 1pm: sit down for lunch.

Work back from your table time and allow a margin, since walks usually take longer than expected. If you are going to be late, give us a call.

Coming by train

You do not need a car to enjoy the day. The inn is 250 yards from Ashwell and Morden station, and trains from London Kings Cross take about an hour. Check the timetable before you travel, as Sunday services can differ from weekdays.

If you are driving, we are on Station Road, Odsey, Baldock SG7 5RR. Our find us page has distances and directions.

Walking with children and dogs

Younger children tire quickly, so keep the route short and build in a stop, perhaps for a snack and a look at the view. Choose paths without busy roads where you can, and keep to the edge of fields and public rights of way.

If you are bringing a dog, keep it on a lead near livestock and ground-nesting areas, and carry bags to clear up after it. Please check with us before you arrive if you plan to bring a dog inside, so we can tell you what is possible.

If the weather turns

Autumn weather changes fast. A wet Sunday does not have to cancel the plan: shorten the route, walk from the door and the roast will taste just as good. Check the forecast the night before and again in the morning, and be ready to adapt. A walk in light rain, followed by a warm room, is often better than one in unbroken sunshine.

Warm up inside, or sit in the garden

Once inside, you will find a spacious bar and dining area with a blazing log fire on colder days, which is exactly what you want after a walk. On a dry, mild afternoon, our cottage garden is also an option for a drink; the alfresco page has more on that.

You can see what is on offer on our menu page. Our main menu is not served on Sundays, as the day is all about the roasts, but you can book special orders in advance if you need something different.

Make a weekend of it

If you would rather not go home straight after lunch, we have eleven en-suite bedrooms. Staying over means a second morning of walking with no driving. See the accommodation page for more.

Book your Sunday table

Sunday tables can fill up, so if you are planning a walk with a group, contact us and let us know how many of you are coming and when you expect to arrive.