As you arrive at The Royal Berkshire Hotel in Ascot, the first thing you notice is its timeless charm. Nestled among leafy grounds and elegant residential streets, the hotel offers a welcoming blend of classic English character and modern comfort. The approach reveals a handsome brick façade, tasteful landscaping, and an inviting entrance that feels both refined and relaxed.
At this time of year, the hotel is beautifully dressed for Christmas. Twinkling lights frame the doorway, festive garlands soften the architecture, and a warm seasonal glow spills from the lobby windows. Stepping out of the car, you’re immediately met with that unmistakable sense of festive magic, paired with calm, understated luxury.
My family and I were invited to sample the Festive Menu, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like the perfect setting for a seasonal dining experience. The warm welcome and beautifully decorated interiors immediately set the tone for what promised to be a memorable occasion.
We were shown to our table in the elegant Fork Restaurant, a space that strikes the perfect balance between classic style and relaxed comfort. Soft lighting, thoughtful décor, and a refined yet welcoming atmosphere made it an ideal place to enjoy the menu together.
Starters
My husband and I chose the King Oyster Mushroom, Chilli and Spring Onion, Kimchi (£12).
The dish arrived beautifully presented, with thick, succulent slices of king oyster mushroom seared until golden at the edges. Their naturally meaty texture was the star of the plate—tender, slightly chewy, and packed with umami. Fresh chilli added a gentle heat, balanced perfectly by the brightness of finely sliced spring onions. The kimchi delivered a bold, tangy punch, its fermented depth cutting through the richness of the mushrooms and lifting every mouthful. A truly delicious dish that we both thoroughly enjoyed.
My daughter and I opted for the Gin-Cured Salmon, Beetroot Tartare, Horseradish (£11).
This arrived looking fresh and elegant, with neatly arranged slices of gin-cured salmon. The salmon was smooth and delicate, lightly infused with subtle citrus and botanical notes from the gin. The beetroot tartare added a striking contrast—earthy, slightly sweet, and vibrant in colour—while the creamy horseradish brought just enough heat to cut through the richness. A beautifully balanced starter that felt light, fresh, and expertly prepared.
Mains
A festive visit wouldn’t be complete without a traditional roast, so I chose the Roasted Turkey, Sage and Apple Stuffing, Chipolata (£20).
The turkey was generous, tender, and perfectly cooked, with golden, lightly crisped skin. Alongside it sat a moist sage and apple stuffing, gently sweet with aromatic warmth, and a plump chipolata adding savoury depth. Crisp roast potatoes and sweet, tender braised carrots completed the plate, while a silky purée of parsnip, swede, and thyme added a fragrant, creamy element. A towering Yorkshire pudding stood proudly, ideal for soaking up the rich red wine gravy. Comforting, indulgent, and perfectly festive.
My husband chose the Roast Sirloin of Beef (£22), which was served as three chunky slices, cooked to perfection. The beef was tender and juicy with a beautifully caramelised exterior, full of rich, savoury flavour that highlighted the quality of the cut.
Both of my children opted for the 8oz Bavette Steak, Triple-Cooked Chips, Vine Tomato (£27).
The steaks arrived perfectly cooked, with a deep caramelised crust and a tender, juicy centre. The triple-cooked chips were crisp on the outside and fluffy within, while the roasted vine tomato added a touch of sweetness and freshness. Simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying—both children declared it the best steak they had ever eaten.
Desserts
Although I had been hoping for a Christmas pudding, it wasn’t on the menu. Thankfully, there were plenty of tempting alternatives.
I chose the Pavlova, Pear Sorbet, Blackberry Confit (£12).
A delicate, cloud-like meringue with a soft, melt-in-the-mouth centre, topped with tangy blackberry confit and paired with silky pear sorbet. A refined balance of sweetness and fruitiness that I thoroughly enjoyed.
My husband opted for the Selection of British Cheeses with Assorted Crackers and Accompaniments (£16)—a generous and well-curated board.
My daughter chose the Sticky Toffee Pudding, Toffee Sauce, Vanilla Ice Cream (£14).
A generous portion of moist, light sponge drenched in warm, buttery toffee sauce, served with creamy vanilla-flecked ice cream. Completely devoured—as they say, the proof really is in the pudding.
My son selected the Chocolate Délice, Dark Chocolate Chantilly, Water Ganache (£11).
Rich, silky, and indulgent, this was pure chocolate elegance and a dream dessert for any chocolate lover.
Final Thoughts
Overall, we had a wonderful experience enjoying the Festive Menu. The food was consistently excellent, the service warm and attentive, and the atmosphere relaxed yet special—making it a thoroughly enjoyable family outing. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it, and next time we visit, we’ll be sure to wrap up warm and enjoy a stroll through the hotel’s beautiful grounds.
