Eat & Drink at The Rusty Gun
A Country Pub Where Food Comes First
At The Rusty Gun, just outside Hitchin in the village of St Ippolyts, we believe good food is what brings people together. Whether you’re here for a leisurely lunch, a family meal, or a hearty Sunday roast, our focus is always on great flavour, local produce and generous hospitality. Everything is freshly prepared in our kitchen, and we’re proud to be one of the few country pubs near Hitchin that still cook with the care and attention you can taste in every bite.
We take inspiration from the Hertfordshire countryside around us – warm, welcoming and full of character. Our menus change with the seasons, but our philosophy stays the same: honest, satisfying food and a relaxed setting where you can feel at home.
Fresh, Local and Full of Flavour
Our chefs create every dish from scratch using fresh ingredients and local produce wherever possible. You’ll find everything from pub classics and seasonal specials to lighter options and vegetarian dishes. We’ve always had a soft spot for rare breed pork – it’s part of our story – but we cater for all tastes, from juicy steaks and fresh fish to vibrant plant-based plates.
For families, we’ve got a full children’s menu, and for those with dietary requirements, many of our dishes can be made gluten-free or vegan on request. It’s all about making sure everyone can relax and enjoy great food together.
Whether you’re joining us for dinner with friends or a casual meal after exploring the countryside around St Ippolyts, The Rusty Gun is the perfect place to eat in Hitchin if you love good, honest pub food done properly.
Midweek Lunches and Weekday Dining
Our weekday lunches are made for slowing down and enjoying the moment. Pop in for a relaxed bite to eat, a catch-up over a glass of wine, or something hearty from our set lunch menu. You’ll find great value two- and three-course options through the week, with everything freshly cooked and full of flavour.
And if you just fancy a drink and a snack, our bar menu has plenty of tempting options too – from small plates to sharing boards, nibbles and light bites. We’re open all day, so whether it’s a lunchtime visit or an evening meal, you’ll always find a warm welcome waiting.
Make Sunday Special
Sundays at The Rusty Gun are something of a tradition. Our Sunday roast is what many people come back for week after week – hearty plates, perfectly cooked meats, and all the trimmings. From tender roast beef and maple-glazed gammon to our famous pork loin and vegan nut roast, each comes with crisp roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and plenty of rich gravy.
It’s a proper Sunday roast in the heart of Hertfordshire – the kind of meal that gathers everyone around the table. Whether you’re from Hitchin, St Ippolyts, or just passing through, it’s worth making the trip to The Rusty Gun for a roast that feels like home.
Our Sunday carvery is served every week, and we recommend booking early as it’s always popular.
Drinks Worth Talking About
A great pub needs great drinks – and that’s something we take seriously. Behind the bar you’ll find over 30 gins from across London and the UK, craft beers from the award-winning Old Cannon Brewery, and a carefully chosen wine list that celebrates d’Arenberg wines from South Australia.
From a perfectly pulled pint to a refreshing cocktail or a locally roasted coffee, there’s something for every occasion. Our team are always happy to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal – or something new to try if you’re just here for drinks.
If you’re looking for a country pub near Hitchin with a drinks list as strong as its menu, you’ve found it.
Book Your Table
We’d love to welcome you to The Rusty Gun soon. You can book your table online or give us a call if you’d prefer to speak to one of the team. Whether you’re planning Sunday lunch, a family meal or just a casual drink after a walk, we’ll make sure everything’s ready for your visit.
For those who like to browse before they dine, you can also view our full menus here – including our set lunch, Sunday roast, and pudding menus.