The Noah's Ark

No reason to wait for inclement weather to visit this Ark, the sympathetically remodelled 16th-century country inn overlooking the village cricket green has year-round appeal. There are plenty of sunny-day tables outside, while winter sees warming log fires & flickering candles. The interior blends ancient beams, floorboards & cottagey furniture with a dash of modernity, the bar hums with convivial banter, & the kitchen delivers homely British cooking. Seasonal produce is sourced from within a 50-mile radius of the pub, & the results might be anything from tried-&-tested favourites such as Northchapel bangers & mash served with red onion gravy to more modish offerings including pan-fried wood pigeon breasts with rösti, green beans, port & gooseberry sauce. Add daily blackboard specials, a simpler lunch offering & real ales on handpump, & you’ve an inn worth a detour.