The Lee Pubs and Restaurants

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 Old Swan

The Old Swan

The oldest of the pubs is The Old Swan at Swan Bottom. 

Dating from the 16th century, this free house still retains all of the character of days gone by. In winter it offers a cosy bar to while away the evenings, whilst in summer the garden offers an oasis of tranquility. 

The pub is currently open Tuesday – Sunday, with a small lunchtime and evening menu.

Further information (telephone icon01494 837239 or facebook icon )

The Cock and Rabbit

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”.

The Cock & Rabbit is undergoing refurbishment with new management. It is currently open for drinks Wednesday-Sunday with limited food available at weekends, whilst Café au Lee is open for coffee and cakes. A restaurant is planned for the future.

Further information (telephone icon 01494 837540 or facebook icon )

The Gate Inn

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.