Restaurant Nailsworth, Gloucestershire
The William’s Story
Restaurant Nailsworth, Gloucestershire
William’s Story
William and Rae Beeston opened the eponymous William’s Kitchen back in 1975 at 3 Fountain Street, Nailsworth, where Frank Carpenter had had a shop since 1951. As well as fresh fish, sold from a marble slab in the shop window, Frank sold rabbits, fowls and pheasants, which were often seen hanging upside-down outside.
William’s Kitchen went from strength to strength, as a fishmonger, delicatessen and also a successful outside catering business. He became known as the man who ‘put Nailsworth on the map’ as his business helped transform this small Gloucestershire market town from a quiet backwater to the celebrated foodie haven it has become today.
Not only did his client list resemble a veritable ‘Who’s Who’ of Gloucestershire, he was also nominated one of Rick Stein’s ‘Food Heroes’ and named one of Matthew Fort’s Five Favourite Places to Shop.
Even Jack Straw, on visiting the Stroud Valleys in the 1990s, requested a visit: “I’ve been told I must stop by William’s Kitchen” he announced, upon arriving at Stroud station.
After 39 successful years in the business, William retired in 2014 and sold ‘William’s Food Hall & Oyster Bar’ to local family, Ed and Helen Playne.
Ed and Helen oversaw a total refurbishment of the premises at 3 Fountain Street in January 2020 which included a brand new restaurant, now doubled in size, a new cocktail bar, coffee bar, hand-crafted oak shelving and fish counter. Long may the William’s story continue …
Ed and Helen Playne, Owners
Having previously worked for hotels and restaurants in London, Helen was very excited to take on this new challenge and is involved in all aspects of the business on a day-to-day basis.
William’s Team
Our Head Chef, Steve Rawicki, joined William’s in 2015 and brings with him over forty years’ catering experience. He has worked as a Head Chef in restaurants across the country from Newquay, Cornwall to Llandudno, Wales – nearly always on the coastline reflecting his passion and extensive … Our Head Chef, Steve Rawicki, joined William’s in 2015 and brings with him over forty years’ catering experience. He has worked as a Head Chef in restaurants across the country from Newquay, Cornwall to Llandudno, Wales – nearly always on the coastline reflecting his passion and extensive knowledge of fish and seafood. Mihai joined the team in 2016 bringing with him a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry, most recently as Head Chef for over 16 years at The Foston’s Ash near Birdlip. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear him singing up the stairs!
Steve Rawicki
Steve Rawicki
Mikey Sukosd
Opening Times
Tue to Thu:
10-4pm (last booking 2.30pm)
Fri & Sat
9-4pm (last booking 2.30pm)
6-11pm (restaurant only, last booking 8.30pm)
Christmas Shop Opening Times
Fri 21 & Sat 22 Dec 9-5
Monday 23 Dec 8am-5pm
Tuesday 24 Dec 8am-1pm
Fri 27 & Sat 28 Dec 9-5
Tues 31 Dec 10-4
Fri 3 & Sat 4 Jan 9-4