The Churchfield is Acton’s best-kept secret; down to earth sophistication with simple decor and stylish dining in an incongruous setting.

The Venue
Everything about The Churchfield indicates that it is most definitely a labour of love. Each element of this pub and dining room has clearly been meticulously and lovingly conceived. Hard to believe it sits less than half a mile from the misery of Acton High Street, this venue occupies what used to be the main part of Acton Central overground station, and is still attached to the station today. A large, cobbled courtyard surrounded by railings and filled with seating leads you to the entrance porch, at which point you can go up the stairs to the restaurant or turn left into the light, spacious bar.

Light streams in through the original sash windows, and the ceiling fans and flocked wallpaper on give a real air of authenticity. Pale green walls are decorated with a long, wide mirror at one end and pristine menu blackboards at the other. Chesterfield sofas, well-worn upright chairs and dining tables are all there to make you feel at home. The toilets each have their own sink and mirror – a distinguished touch.

The Atmosphere
Chillout music, soft wall lights and contemporary lampshades create a relaxed atmosphere for a long, lazy lunch. You can also watch sports or test your brainpower at the weekly quiz night. The crowd tends to be 25-40 and comprises locals and workers.

The Music
You might struggle to decide what to choose from the menu, which is devised and prepared by chef-owner of The Churchfield. Sea Bass with butternut squash, chorizo and cabbage; calves liver in a creamy mushroom sauce on doorstep bread; home-made Scotch egg, creamy cauliflower cheese; the mouthwatering list goes on. Like The Rocket opposite, the prices are high for the area, but at The Churchfield you do get what you pay for. Just try not to order too much.

The Drink
Two blackboards above the mirrored bar display the red and white wine lists, plus a superb key to the characteristics of each wine, with symbols by each bottle to help you choose according to your taste: fruity, round & bold; crisp, aromatic and creamy; and so on. The beers vary from the easy choices of Becks, Strongbow and Stella to the more exotic Fruli, Leifmans, Hoegarden, Chima Beer and Leffe. Liqueurs include Galliano and Jagermeister and a superb gin selection includes Plymouth, Beefeater and Bendricks.

The Last Word
The Churchfield has all the ingredients of the perfect gastro pub except the location, but worth a short trip on the London overground.

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