Old Swan and Minster Mill

Well-known hoteliers Peter & Lana de Savary recently refurbished this Cotswold hotel – a two-pronged retreat including a quaint 15th-century inn complete with flagstone floors, log fires, dark panelling & oak beams. Chef Darren Salmon’s menu echoes the British theme, with the emphasis on seasonality (herbs & veg are grown on-site). Simplicity without muddled flavours is the key, & the kitchen impresses with moreish potted shrimps, succulent dressed Devon crab & plump, velvety Lyme Bay Scallops with cauliflower purée. On the meat front, beef Wellington is a cracking signature dish & there are votes for the deliciously caramelised, slow-roasted pork belly. To finish, banana & maple syrup cake hints at school dinners, but is nevertheless top of the class. The lengthy wine list is lucidly explained & includes some spot-on stuff, while sweet, obliging staff are on hand to serve with a smile.