One of Henley-on-Thames‘ oldest pubs, The Three Tuns, is set to reopen its doors under new ownership on Tuesday, 27th May, ushering in an exciting new chapter for the Market Place landmark.
The relaunch marks the culmination of a 25-year dream shared by two of Henley’s most respected local figures: Nigel Sutcliffe, co-owner of acclaimed gastropub The Oarsman in Marlow, and Barry Wagner, the well-known butcher behind neighbouring institution Gabriel Machin.
The pair, friends and collaborators for decades, first joked about taking over the pub next door in the early days of their friendship. Now, after years of trading ideas over the butcher’s counter, that long-held vision is finally becoming a reality.
A Pub Rooted in Community, Craft, and Quality
At its heart, The Three Tuns is a tribute to quality produce, seasonal cooking, and warm hospitality. The new concept centres on a produce-led menu, built around premium cuts and ingredients sourced directly from Gabriel Machin’s butchery, located just steps from the pub’s kitchen.
The menu, designed by Executive Chef Scott Smith, includes a selection of flavour-packed dishes. Expect bar bites such as Lamb Croquettes, Cantabrian Anchovies on Toast, and Grilled Sausages with N’Duja & Shallots, alongside robust starters like Devilled Kidneys, Clams à la Plancha, and Machin’s signature Oak Smoked Salmon.
Hearty mains include Confit Lamb Breast, Baked Hake with Brown Shrimp, and a comforting Chicken ‘Chasseur’ Pie for Two. Meanwhile, the Butcher’s Board will showcase daily grill specials, including Lamb Cutlets, Bavette Steak Frites, and a show-stopping 28oz Côte du Boeuf. Larger table cuts such as Shoulder of Lamb and Wing Rib of Beef will also be available for sharing.
The Boat Shed: Courtyard Dining With a Casual Twist
For more relaxed dining, guests can head to The Boat Shed, a courtyard offshoot offering a compact burger-focused menu ideal for alfresco meals. Options include the Classic Smashed Cheeseburger, Beyond Meat Vegan Burger, and spicy kimchi add-ons, with both takeaway and dine-in options available.
A Local Revival with Big Ambitions
The Three Tuns will be overseen by the same team behind The Oarsman, with General Manager Patrycja Gajda leading front-of-house operations. The team brings both pedigree and passion to this revival, promising an experience that’s deeply rooted in community while also elevating the local dining scene.
The Three Tuns in Henley
Address: 5 Market Place, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2AA
Book Your Table
The Three Tuns officially opens on Tuesday, 27th May, and bookings are now open via OpenTable.
For a pub experience that blends history, heritage, and hospitality, this Henley revival is set to be one of the year’s most anticipated local openings.
