17:30The door opens
Candles are lit and the first guests drift in off the High Street.
17:45A drink at the bar
Smoked Old Fashioneds and a bowl of beef dripping bread while you wait.
18:30First sitting
Forty covers, velvet booths and no one hurrying you out.
19:30The hearth peaks
The ember bed is at full heat. Steaks for two go over the oak.
20:15Plates go out
Lamb, hake, celeriac cooked in hay. Everything has touched the fire.
21:30Something sweet
Burnt honey tart and a last glass of something from the cellar.
23:00Last orders
The fire in the Drawing Room is still going. Nobody wants to leave.