The Lee boasts two very different traditional pubs – both free houses, both in beautiful settings and each with a long and interesting history. As well as having a loyal group of ‘locals’, the pubs have also all become popular stop off points for walkers, cyclists and other visitors exploring the Chilterns (please take off muddy boots!)
It is also worth visitors to The Lee checking out Forthcoming Events to see what else might be open for refreshments during their visit.
The Cock and Rabbit
In The Lee green Conservation Area we find The Cock and Rabbit Inn.
The Cock & Rabbit was rebuilt and re-sited in 1907 by Arthur Liberty during his re-construction of the village green. It replaced a much older pub that allegedly ‘obscured the view from his manor house’. Now, surrounded by a garden and sun terrace, this pub has “the appearance of a quintessential English country house”.
It is also famous for its many appearances in Midsomer Murders (including the very first episode) – see Midsomer Lee – The Lee
The Cock & Rabbit is open for drinks Tuesday-Sunday whilst Café au Lee is open for coffee and cakes. The restaurant is open Wednesday – Sunday.
Further information (
01494 837540 or 
)
The Old Swan
The oldest of the pubs is The Old Swan at Swan Bottom, which is currently closed.
Dating from the 16th century, this free house still retains all of the character of days gone by.
Further information (01494 837239 or )
The Gate Inn
The last pub in the village to close was The Gate Inn at Lee Gate.
The Gate Inn at Lee Gate was created from two timber framed cottages, also dating from the 16th century, and re-cased in brick in the 18th century to form the present building.
Now a Grade II listed building, this former pub will be recognised by Midsomer Murder aficionados.