The Bell Inn

Deep in rural Berkshire at the heart of Waltham St Lawrence village, The Bell Inn is that rare all-rounder – a pub where history, drinks, character and cooking all stand out. Occupying a beamed 14th-century house with creaking fireplaces, wattle and daub walls, mishmash furniture and candelabra lighting, it boasts five pumps rotating a choice of local ales plus a further six cask ciders in the cellar. Cooking is no afterthought, either: a blackboard above the hearth (rewritten each session) announces ham hock fritters, venison burgers with sauerkraut and chips, Welsh rarebit on beer bread, roasted partridge on crispy parsnips – or whatever happens to be in season. With a colourful crew of locals permanently installed and a big garden full to bursting whenever the sun shines, expect a lively vibe.