JOIN US BY THE RIVERSIDE
Peach is a collection of really great pubs, mainly in market towns in the heart of England. Situated on our own island, we’re very fortunate to benefit from Maidenhead’s finest al fresco dining and drinking spot – even if we do say so ourselves. As a quality gastropub, we serve great ingredients and fresh, honest food in relaxed, welcoming surroundings, always with a kind word and a sense of fun. Today we have twenty two pubs in lovely towns and villages, and an undimmed devotion to Making life Peachy. We have always been passionate about giving back and as we’ve developed and grown over the years, our ability and motivation to make the world a little better, a little peachier, has grown with us. The Bigger Peach shows our efforts to improve communities, equality in the workplace, and the future sustainability of our world. Our achievements were recognised in 2022, when we won Best Sustainable Pub Company at the Publican Awards, and we’re also three star accredited by the Sustainable Restaurant Association.
Soak up the sun, atmosphere and beautiful riverside views whilst enjoying a bite to eat, a cocktail, or a glass of award-winning wine from our drinks list. We serve food all day and children are welcome to enjoy smaller portions of any of our dishes, or ask to see our children’s menu. We take huge pride in serving the best ingredients we can find, from ethical producers, freshly prepared by our chefs. We’re dog friendly in our bar and outdoor areas, bring your furry friend and stop by soon. On our bar you’ll find a great range of spirits, beers and softs, so whether you pop in for a drink, a business lunch or a special dinner, we promise you a friendly welcome. Find us here.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Michael & the team
Michael Poole, General Manager
From Wrexham in North Wales, Michael started his hospitality career at 20 years old, working part time in clubs and cocktail bars. When he was 22 he moved to London, moved into full time hospitality, and never looked back…
Making a guests’ experience is Michael’s passion and he knew that a career in hospitality was what he was looking for. He spent 10 years learning the art of hospitality in bars and restaurants, before finding Peach. Falling in love with the 7 values and the celebration of individuality, Michael was confident this was the place for him. Michael’s goal is to have a long career in Peach, where he can grow and pass on the knowledge and skills that he himself has learnt through his time with us, particularly from the previous General Manager of The Boathouse, Sharon.
Originally Michael wanted to work in radio as a presenter, but soon followed his heart down the hospitality route. He’s a big music fan and tries to get to as many shows as he can, and when not hosting in the pub you’ll find him enjoying a cold beer or a glass of wine with friends and family.
Be sure to pop by and say hi soon!
HUGH HOUSTON, HEAD CHEF
Hugh was born in Jamaica but grew up in the States in a family of foodies. His Dad was Head Chef at a hospital, which spiked his curiosity, and led him to do his catering internship in Estes Park in Colorado. Following his second passion, travel, Hugh found himself in the UK. He started his professional kitchen career at the RAC Country Club in Epsom which he thoroughly enjoyed, but eventually had to scratch that London itch, and made the move to the big smoke to be trained by the very best.
This is where his talent really became apparent. It was while working for Head Chef Daniel Woodhouse at Roux Fine Dining that the extraordinary world of food was opened up to Hugh, and his skill set flew through the roof. Daniel eventually moved to Boulters, Maidenhead, where in 2014 he finally managed to convince Hugh to join him and the two of them achieved an incredible two AA Rosettes in just one year.
It was July 2018 that Peach took over Boulters and where we had the privilege of meeting Hugh, who agreed to stay on as our Head Chef and we’re very lucky he did. It’s clear it’s not just his fabulous background that ensures his food is as good as it. Its Hugh’s endless passion, exceptional presentation and natural talent that makes us confident that wherever he’s cooking, it’s going to be outstanding.
We’re ecstatic that in August 2021, he agreed to take on the kitchen at The Duke, and we’re happy the residents of East Horsley now get to sample his incredible creations – you lucky lot.
On top of all this, you’ll not meet a nicer guy and his chilled approach certainly shows in his team and his food, so if you get the chance to meet the man behind the menu, don’t miss that opportunity!
Sian Lewis, POD Director
Hospitality, and making sure everyone is really well looked after, are in Sian’s genes. From helping her grandfather run the family B&B in the glorious Pembrokeshire countryside where she grew up to studying travel and tourism at Pembrokeshire College. She moved on to manage the two Rosette restaurant at The Maynard, a beautiful boutique hotel in the Peak District National Park, and laying on fantastic foodie events.
Her next home was The Ferry Inn, a fine watering hole, and then its lovely sister pub The Boar’s Head in Narbeth, offering good food and hospitality in equal measure. When it was time for a change, Sian went to Hampshire to become deputy at our own sister pub The Chequers in Eversley Cross, quickly helping this gorgeous village local make its mark, before taking on The Duke of Wellington to make it the best for miles around. Acorn Award winner, Sian, has now been appointed from General Manager to Pod Director for our Surrey and Oxfordshire pubs.