The Grove

Surrounded by rolling fields, bluebell meadows & clipped lawns, this gracious white house could be the setting for a costume drama. Inside it’s awash with original features such as wood-panelled walls & grand fireplaces, although modern furnishings & contemporary artwork help to create a look that is classy & classic without being fusty. Much the same could be said for chef Duncan Barham’s cooking, which gives a modern spin to old-school French & British recipes – maybe pot-roasted pork with pan-fried terrine, parsnip purée, radish, & sweet & sour onions ahead of Brecon venison with hazelnut-crusted loin, slow-cooked shin, a suet dumpling, celeriac & pear. Meanwhile, desserts such as pumpkin fondant with Muscovado & pecan parfait or Granny Smith apple mousse with caramelised apples & salted caramel give familiar, seasonal ingredients a playful twist.