In the heart of Pratts Bottom in Orpington is gem of a pub that has been quietly winning over the locals with its brilliant gastro food and rich history involving an infamous highway man – The Bull's Head.

Operated by Joe and Stuart, this charming pub has been a favourite of locals despite facing the challenges of pandemic restrictions shortly after a huge refurb and reopening under new hands.

The highlight of the Bulls Head is its rich history - with tales of infamous highwayman Dick Turpin frequenting the establishment and even a hidden tunnel beneath its floors.

Joe told the News Shopper: “It's a really old pub and all our decor in there highlights the history of Dick Turpin because apparently he used to drink in that pub.

"There is tunnel which goes from under the pump right to the top of the hill – it is blocked up now though.”

Joe explained that visitors are greeted with warmth and hospitality that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining and drinking experience – with the venue having a key focus on providing amazing foot.

He explained: “We also locally source all our food, so we use local butchers, local farmers for the fruit, veg, and everything else, and it's all sourced fresh daily.

“We're like a gastro, with high-end pub food, but our chef is half French and half Algerian so it has got that sort of French twist to it as well.

“He works really hard and there is so much love that goes into the cooking.

“It's not just a job to him. We ae all like family and it really transpires to the food and to the service.

“I think we really do go the extra mile. Our staff give the same enthusiasm, professionalism, and level of service which I do.

“I'm very much a people person, so if people come in with dogs, we get them a water bowl and treats if someone comes in with a kid, we get them colouring books and we try and make that person's visit as pleasurable as we can and as stress-free as possible.”

Joe added that his team go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and cherished, creating a sense of community that keeps people coming back.

Joe lives in Sidcup and also owns the Summerfield in Hither Green - which was his first pub that he began running eight years ago and was his dads favourite local.

Looking ahead, Joe and Stuart have ambitious plans to further enhance The Bull's Head's offerings and have planned a garden refurbishment before the busy summer.

They also have an exciting lineup of events, including the eagerly anticipated May Fate celebration which the venue has decided to get involved in.

The May Fete will be held on May 11 and will include a parade up Rushmore Hill to the Green, where they crown the Pratts Bottom May Queen.

Then, at 12pm, the fete officially begins with lots of stalls run by local groups, a dog show, Punch and Judy puppet shows, and dancing.

Joe added: “We've got a lovely big rear garden which has private dining pods, a big stretch tent with festoon lights. It's a really lovely place to sit in summer.

“We've got a lovely sun terrace where people can book out for private functions and it's just at the sun track really, sit there and you can overlook the hills and the farms from our back garden.”

As Orpington's number one pub on TripAdvisor and a beloved fixture in the community, The Bull's Head stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional British pubs.