The Lytton Arms

With views over Knebworth Estate, the unassuming Lytton Arms absolutely nails it as a real pub: generous with its hospitality, spot-on when it comes to food and famed for its regularly changing real ales (‘we like to think of ourselves as a beer festival 365 days a year,’ says the landlord). Good for everyday dining as well as easy celebrations, this place is equally adept at delivering lingering Sunday roasts, lunchtime sandwiches, pub classics or seasonal specials. Food is served in the rustic, low-key dining room or bright, spacious conservatory, while the menu promises modernised pub food full of feisty flavours, with fresh local ingredients and good pricing. Typically, smoked ham hock, pistachio and black pudding terrine might precede a toweringly meaty dish of slow-braised Knebworth Estate venison and beef atop creamed potato or beer-battered haddock with triple-cooked chips. For afters, sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce provides a fortifying finish. Everyone has a good word for the hard-working, enthusiastic staff, and a jolly good time is had by all. There’s a short, well-priced international wine list, too.