Popular countryside pub and former coaching inn, part of which dates back to the mid-17th-century (when it was built on the site of the 14th-century Kilby Hall) but significantly extended and refurbished during the 20th-century. The large open plan room has several linked areas amid pillars and partitions. Mostly set out for dining (the main emphasis is on food), but there is a drinking area around the bar counter, where framed historical information can be found. Themed food nights, eg. steak night Monday, 'bangers 'n' mash' Wednesday. No regular bus services within 4km, but Blithbury is within the area served by the pre-bookable Needwood Forest Connect Service (not Sundays).