Dew Pond

With the baa-ing of sheep in the fields & the scrunch of gravel on the drive, it’s hard to believe that The Dew Pond is just a short drive away from the busy A34. The warm country feel continues inside this relaxed 16th-century restaurant, albeit with a slightly formal, old-fashioned air. There are a couple of small front lounges, while the dining room features the odd beam, colourful paintings & rural views. Black leather chairs add a fashionable note, & the cooking surprises with its light touch & sense of modernity. The fixed-price dinner menu is ingredients-led, with highlights including fillet of aged beef served with Madeira, shallots, creamed wild mushrooms, gratin dauphinoise & celeriac puree, ahead of summer berry Pavlova with Cornish ice cream. A decked terrace at the back – fashioned from a couple of old drovers’ cottages – offers added summer value & a lovely outlook.