The Lamb Hindon

Formerly located in the centre of Bruton, Osip is now situated more rurally, in a stunningly renovated former pub that retains the minimalistic elegance of the original. Forward-thinking chef Merlin Labron-Johnson and his enthusiastic team are passionate about their farm-to-table ethos, with the tasting menus showcasing an array of home-grown and locally sourced produce. Dishes like chilled tomato consommé with fig oil shine in their technical precision and pure, natural flavours. The wine flights highlight organic and biodynamic choices, while there are also non-alcoholic pairings.

The kind of place where you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face, this ivy-clad 19th-century pub has been lovingly restored with a quirky touch. The inviting bar leads through to the equally characterful restaurant, where cooking over fire is focus. Expect the likes of oyster mushroom skewers with wild garlic and gochujang, bavette with kale and romesco, or fire-licked pork belly with lightly charred hispi cabbage. To finish, the on-trend Basque cheesecake is a generous treat. Friendly, enthusiastic service and fairly priced wines are the icing on the cake.

Sample local ales in the open-fired bar or on the delightful terrace of this stylishly updated 18th-century country inn on the Longleat Estate, then head for one of the numerous cosy, well-appointed dining rooms. There’s a relaxed air throughout, making the cooking all the more enjoyable, whether it be haddock and chips, chargrilled steaks or whole plaice. Local producers are pushed to the fore, as are meat and game from Longleat. Make a night of it and stay over in one of the modern, country house-esque bedrooms.