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Wednesday, March 04, 2026

Hitchen’s Barn, A Culinary Masterpiece in Oakham

Hitchen’s Barn, A Culinary Masterpiece in Oakham

If you are looking for the pinnacle of dining in Rutland, Hitchen’s Barn on Burley Road is an essential stop. Owned and run by the formidable husband-and-wife team Neil and Louise Hitchen, this restaurant has quickly become a "neighborhood favorite" with a national reputation, consistently proving that world-class cooking can be both relaxed and accessible.

Award-Winning Excellence

Since opening in 2019, Hitchen’s Barn has collected a staggering array of accolades that many city restaurants would envy, Michelin Bib Gourmand, The restaurant has held this prestigious award every year from 2020 through 2026. It recognises "good quality, good value cooking" high-end food without the stiff formality. AA Rosettes, Proudly holding 2 AA Rosettes for culinary excellence. Top 100 Status, Frequently featured in The Good Food Guide’s list of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants. Critical Acclaim, In 2024, it received a glowing 5-star review from the Daily Telegraph’s William Sitwell, who praised its "unfussy modern British" charm. The heart of Hitchen’s Barn is Neil’s kitchen, where the menu changes daily to reflect the very best of Rutland’s larder Signature Dish, Look out for the nationally famous twice-baked Red Leicester and Lincolnshire Poacher cheese soufflé a local legend for a reason.

Ingredients are sourced from nearby gems like Hambleton Bakery, Launde Farm, and the Melton Cheeseboard.

While Neil handles the kitchen, Louise leads the front-of-house team with a warmth and efficiency that makes every guest feel like a regular. The interior is a beautifully converted stone barn, blending rustic timber ceilings and wood floors with a stylish, "bistro-esque" atmosphere.

Plan Your Visit

Due to its immense popularity, booking is essential, often weeks in advance for weekend service.

Location: 12 Burley Road, Oakham, LE15 6DH (Located next to the long-stay car park).

Opening Times (2026):

Tuesday – Saturday: Lunch (12:00 pm – 1:30 pm) | Dinner (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm)

Sunday & Monday: Closed

Contact: 01572 722255 (Bookings are primarily taken by telephone).

Official Website: www.hitchensbarn.co.uk