Hop Pole Inn

‘Community values’ mean a great deal at this Grade II-listed, 16th-century pub in a stunningly pretty valley. Saved from development by a group of locals, it's now a success story run by a 'young, vibrant and brilliant team' who also organise quizzes, walks and bike rides. Visitors are greeted by the warm glow of a roaring fire and wooden beams garlanded with dried hops – although the stunning garden is a magnet for families with kids. The kitchen makes profitable use of produce from its raised growing beds for an ever-changing ‘farm-to-table’ menu overseen by local boy Charlie Rawlings. Whether you plump for a venison ‘scrumpet’ at lunchtime, or go the whole three courses for dinner, the cooking is refined but hearty and completely flavour-driven – think black pudding with cider mustard sauce, chicken and ham-hock pie or pan-roasted cod with spring vegetables and butter sauce. Sunday lunch is also a winning ticket with a choice of three roasts followed by ‘puds’ such as Cambridge burnt cream. The short wine list plays second fiddle to an excellent selection of local ales and ciders.

Photographs by Ed Schofield