The Kings Arms & The Family Goss
Back in 2004 James with his father David and mother Gisa took on the lease of the 370-year-old Kings Arms. Within the relatively short time of their custodianship the family have shared so much with the local community, becoming a hub for the local community and are still providing top notch hospitality in England’s smallest county. Villagers, visitors, farmers, the shoots and every other walk of life rub shoulders in this flagship establishment, often becoming friends and the repeat custom that makes this such a beacon for foodies and lovers of the countryside. Kate & James married in 2015 and now with Charlie and Stanley their 2 sons are firmly part of the very fabric of Wing. With David now the only remaining grandparent still holding the fort in the office, Kate as General manager and James in the kitchen they are still providing the friendliest welcome, great service, top rated accommodation, and the award-winning food they have always done.
Our Master Chef
Cooking has always been in my blood. From a very young age I was interested in cookery. For me, making pies with my thrifty Gran in Winchester, cooking with my mother in the kitchen at home, picking fruit in Oma’s Orchard in Germany, preserving them for cooler months, or helping in my uncle’s restaurant were all just part of growing up. Working in our local pub kitchen and bar in my teens and throughout my school and university years was just another step in my varied career. 7 Years in Zermatt Switzerland presented many opportunities from Hotel Kitchens to Mountain Restaurants, where I continued to extend my repertoire always learning something new and learning to refine them. A fond farewell to Switzerland took me to Denmark, initially working in a conference centre then eventually taking a position as Head Chef for 3 years at a Large Hotel specialising in Fish and Game.
In 2004 I came home to family to start our journey at The Kings Arms. The passion for environment, community, field to fork, nose to tail, smoking and charcuterie that I had experienced and embraced throughout my earlier years was about to find a new home here at The Kings Arms. With so much amazing produce available right here on our doorstep it’s easy to just let the seasons bounties write the menus for me. Our charcuterie production and smoked produce are a real love of mine. Coupling them with other seasonal produce and foraged goodies for our menu is always a real pleasure. I am happy to say that my passion for the food we deliver is greater than ever and my team and I strive to deliver that sentiment in each and every mouthful and at each and every sitting.