Central townhouse

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.

The duo behind London pub hits like The Pelican and The Hero also run this 16th-century inn back in their native Cotswolds. The space oozes character, boasting flagged floors, timbered ceilings, plenty of exposed golden stone and twin open fires. There is a relaxed and intimate feel to the place, and an understated quality to the tersely described dishes that simply let the first-rate ingredients shine, such as cod with smokey kipper sauce and juicy leeks. The bedrooms in The Barn are the icing on the cake.

The quaint village of Charlbury is the setting for this 17C pub, which looks gorgeous thanks to a lavish makeover. The bar and dining areas ooze charm and character, with exposed Cotswold stone walls and crackling log fires among the many appealing features. In summer, the garden and orchard come into their own with a covered terrace and even a small stream. Many ingredients come from their sister operation, Daylesford Organic Farm, and are used in comforting, full-flavoured dishes like Cornish fish pie. Tastefully decorated bedrooms complete the picture.

Located in a lovely suburb is this neat, attractive modern brasserie run by an experienced chef and his welcoming wife. There are a few Mediterranean and North African influences on the menu, but the French basis is clear – as evidenced by classic dishes like fish soup with rouille, Gruyère and croutons. The cooking is honest, unfussy and full of flavour, and there's a good value ‘prix fixe’ on offer too.