The Golden Ball

4.6 ( 272 reviews )
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The Golden Ball, Lower Assendon, Henley-on-Thames RG9 6AH, United Kingdom
+44 1491 574157

The Golden Ball, nestled in the picturesque Lower Assendon, Henley-on-Thames, has swiftly become a culinary gem that delights patrons with its exceptional fare and warm ambiance. Diners rave about the enticing three-course set lunch menu, featuring freshly baked, warm bread rolls paired with homemade butters that set a delectable tone for the meal. C Gratrix recounts the bliss of experiencing robust flavors in dishes like mackerel and succulent pork chops, while Dorothy appreciates the hint of Indian spice that elevates the lunchtime offerings.

The inviting atmosphere is a highlight, with Richard Norton noting the staff's incredible hospitality, particularly from Priya at the front of house, ensuring that every guest feels welcome. The beautiful pub garden is the perfect spot for soaking up the sun while enjoying exceptional cuisine. Though some diners, like Dan Turner, mention a slightly higher price point, the quality of the food, from shareable desserts to generous portions, clearly justifies it. Overall, The Golden Ball promises not just a meal but an experience filled with flavor, charm, and a commitment to fantastic service. Highly recommended for an exquisite dining outing!

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Has outdoor seating
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
    • No takeaway
  • Highlights
    • Has fireplace
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great coffee
    • Serves great dessert
    • Has great wine list
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves healthy options
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
    • Has Wi-Fi
    • Free Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
    • Romantic
    • Upmarket
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
  • Planning
    • Lunch reservations recommended
    • Reservations required
    • Dinner reservations recommended
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • High chairs available
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed

Reviews For The Golden Ball

C Gratrix
Jun 16,2025
My husband and I had heard from a friend that they food at The Golden Ball was exceptional, so we booked a Saturday lunch to try it for ourselves. We opted for the set 3 course lunch menu. This started with warm, freshly baked bread rolls, accompanied by homemade butter and wild garlic butter - all of which was delicious. For our starter we both had mackrel, followed by pork chop for hubby and I had fish. It was incredible. Great flavours and generous portions. Dessert was equally delicious. Attentive, friendly staff. Highly recommend
Dorothy
May 10,2025
Came for lunch, food was really tasty with a touch of indian spice , service was really good , enjoyed our lunch very much.
Tony Goff-Yu
Apr 23,2025
Popped in for the set menu on a Friday and was not disappointed. Lovely atmosphere with some great food.
Richard Norton
Apr 19,2025
Went for a Sunday lunch after the Henley triathlon with all the family today. Food was exceptional, staff were amazing and Priya was incredibly welcoming and friendly at the front of house. Service was also top level and well worth a visit. The pub inside is super smart and the pub garden is perfect outside to enjoy the sun! Will definitely be coming back and thank you for looking after us so well.
Dan Turner
Apr 15,2025
A little pricey but a very friendly atmosphere and really good food (and wine). The table layout is a little pub-nook like but with less intimate areas also. The team worked very hard to deliver good portions of delicious food and I love the sharing dessert concept. A great evening out, thank you.
Vivien Martin
Apr 14,2025
Mother's Day was made extra special by having lunch here. The food was exceptional. Delicious and full of flavour. The staff were so welcoming and friendly. Nothing was too much trouble. Lovely touch was a glass of champagne for "the Mum"! I cannot recommend The Golden Ball highly enough .. there are not enough superlatives to do it justice. Bring your family and friends for the very best dining experience.
Helen R
Mar 28,2025
Enjoyed Sunday lunch on the bank holiday weekend. Gorgeous old characterful building, delicious food and welcoming service. The warm, freshly baked bread rolls with salted butter to start were very nice! I had a paneer starter that was super tasty. Both the roast belly pork and beef were very good, generous servings and plenty of lovely vegetables to share (the cheesy leeks were divine!) For pudding we shared the Indian mango - sooo good together with the sweet, Chilean Sauvignon blanc pairing - perfection! Then gorgeous little rhubarb petit fours that melt in the mouth to finish. Such a lovely dining experience, highly recommend!
Stefan Krt
Mar 24,2025
We had a lunch set menu. Excellent food and great value for money. Would definitely come back when I’m the area.

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