Cartwright Hotel

With its 15th-century origins and smartly thatched roof, this may look like a typical English pub, but it's no ordinary village local. Mike and Imogen bought the place back in 2006 and have since put Murcott on the foodie map, whilst also keeping their inn a friendly, welcoming place. Refined, elegant dishes are delivered in the form of a tasting menu or a simpler 'pub classics' selection, both of which showcase the kitchen's ability to deliver tried-and-tested favourites with great skill – just look at the textbook sauces and the superb choice of breads to start.

Parts of this attractive roadside inn reputedly date back to the 16th Century, providing a lovely setting for cooking based around local ingredients. Several of them come from the owners’ own smallholding and others from nearby producers who are named on the menu – sometimes alongside their distance from the restaurant. These ingredients are fashioned into dishes that burst with flavour and don’t overcomplicate matters, like bright, fresh-tasting roasted cod with mussel sauce.

There's a lovely pub ambience at this attractive 16th-century inn; the crackling fire is perfect for winter, while the landscaped garden comes into its own in summer. The chefs bake their own breads, butcher their own meats, and champion local and organic produce in comforting yet refined dishes. An array of menus lets you tailor your visit depending on the mood and occasion: bargain hunters should go for the great value set lunch; families can gather for a Sunday roast; and the tasting menu is there for special occasions. Bedrooms are available to extend your visit.

It may sit within a 17C former pub, but there’s now more of a restaurant feel to this intimate family-run operation – where you’re guaranteed a warm welcome. The regularly updated menus showcase cooking that is well-balanced, thoughtfully composed and makes great use of the local larder. Flavour and texture combinations are both original and effective, in dishes largely served by chef Harry Flockhart himself. When the weather allows, head for the terrace.

Just down the road from Blenheim Palace, this well-run restaurant is found inside the impressive Feathers Hotel. A gorgeously refurbished property, its elegant style extends to the chic dining room, where the building’s 17th-century features are blended with a light pastel palette. The assured cooking delivers expertly balanced flavours and textures in each enticing dish – just be sure to order a side of the terrific crispy layered potatoes with truffle salt and parmesan. The service team are engaging and attentive yet free of fuss and formality.