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Restaurant Hywel Jones by Lucknam Park

★ Michelin££££Modern British

This is country house dining at its finest – opulent, formal and sophisticated – and it suits this grand Palladian mansion perfectly. Rich, elegant décor, extravagant furnishings and sumptuous fabrics feature throughout, from the beautiful bedrooms to the drawing rooms where pre-meal drinks are enjoyed. Expertly crafted dishes rely on classic techniques but have a light, modern style, and ingredients are luxurious and of top quality. Structured service comes with as much polish as the silver.

Bybrook

★ Michelin££££Modern British

One of the last true country house hotels, this 14th-century manor sits within 365 acres of formal gardens and parkland in a picture-postcard village – and the immensely charming interior features characterful oak panelling and a host of cosy open-fired lounges. Quality produce from Anjou pigeon to Cornish brill plays a pivotal role in the menu, which results in a flavoursome blend of simple and premium ingredients. Dishes are precisely prepared and deliver refined, classic combinations with modern overtones. Luxurious bedrooms are split between the house and mews cottages.

Olive Tree

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

The Queensberry Hotel comprises a series of Bath's archetypal Georgian townhouses and in its basement sits this surprisingly airy, modern restaurant where Chef Chris Cleghorn brings an innovative, personalised approach to his cooking. Colours, textures and flavours are used to full effect in refined, creative combinations which have plenty of depth and, while they may appear simple, that’s all part of their skilful make-up. Desserts are a consistent highlight, especially the combination of intense dark chocolate and fruity olive oil, with a drizzle of top-notch balsamic.

The Dining Room

★ Michelin££££Creative

There’s a serene, romantic feel to this restaurant inside the charming Whatley Manor country house, which dates back to 1802 and sports 12 acres of formal grounds. The evening starts with snacks in the kitchen, before moving through to the dining room for the main event. Terse menu descriptions belie the detail and creativity in the artfully presented dishes, which come with some intriguing contrasts of texture and flavour. Extend your visit with an overnight stay in one of the luxurious modern bedrooms.

Osip

★ Michelin££££Modern British

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.

Bulrush

★ Michelin£££Modern British

There's an appealingly relaxed, cosy feel to this neighbourhood restaurant, where the downstairs room benefits from the atmosphere of an on-view kitchen. An imaginative streak runs through dishes based around top-notch seasonal ingredients that are either foraged or organic, while preserving and pickling also play a key role on the well-balanced and deftly prepared tasting menu. Highlights could include the likes of Wagyu beef with black bean ketchup and a terrific Bordelaise sauce. The astutely chosen wine flight creates the perfect partnership.

Wilsons

★ Michelin£££Modern British

There is so much to enjoy, and so much to admire, when dining at Wilsons. It’s one of those appealing neighbourhood operations that works in pure harmony, with everyone from the chefs to the service team sharing the same ethos. Environmental awareness and careful sourcing of superb ingredients are at the forefront, with the restaurant’s own smallholding providing much of the produce on the tasting menu of expertly crafted dishes. Each one is exquisitely balanced and full of understated originality, like dry-aged trout with pickled mushrooms and sweet onion broth.

Beckford Bottle Shop

必比登££Modern British

In a great location at the top end of the city, this characterful spot combines the relaxed vibe of a wine bar with the attractively priced cooking of a bistro. Tasty, carefully prepared small plates – such as succulent monkfish tail with leek mayo and umami-packed charcuterie jam – are served by a cheerful and helpful team. The wine list offers plenty of choice, but you can also choose a bottle from their shop next door and pay corkage to enjoy it while dining; French and Italian producers are particularly well represented.

The Chequers

必比登££Traditional Cuisine

Whether it's Orkney scallops or Wiltshire pheasant, there’s always an appealingly muscular quality to the cooking at this popular pub set in a smart residential street amid elegant Georgian terraces. You can choose between elaborate dishes with international flavours and touches of originality or those of a more traditional bent. Check out the blackboard specials, which could include prime rib to share, and don't miss the indulgent sticky toffee pudding if you get the chance.

Pythouse Kitchen Garden

必比登££Traditional British

You'll struggle to find a lovelier all-round experience than having lunch at Pythouse Kitchen Garden. Set inside a red-brick former potting shed within a Victorian walled garden, it's a gorgeous setting with elegance and country charm to spare. The cooking is a joy too, with great value to be had in the generous fixed-price offering built around cooking over fire. The ingredients, many from the garden itself, are of real quality and used to brilliant effect – like the pickled gooseberry ketchup offsetting rich game sausage.

Briar

必比登££Contemporary, Sharing

Within the charming Georgian hotel that is Number One Bruton, sits this attractive restaurant which we’d all love to have at the end of our street. It’s the kind of place that warms your heart, run with a genuine friendliness and enthusiasm that’s mirrored by the bright, fresh cooking that can’t help but put a smile on your face. Order three to four of the sharing plates per person and you’ll be treated to great value dishes that burst with flavour – like the buttermilk fried partridge enlivened by pickled shallots and tarragon mayonnaise.

OTHER

必比登££Sharing

If you were to ask Chef Zak Hitchman what kind of food he cooks, you may not get a clear answer, such is the variety of influences that he skilfully adopts. That’s borne out here in a playful, constantly changing menu served inside this small, modish bistro with bright orange walls. If there’s anything on the menu involving the hot and sour crab sauce, don’t hesitate in ordering it, as it’s the perfect encapsulation of the kitchen’s understanding of flavour. Everything, including the wines, comes with an appealing price tag and the friendly service is the icing on the cake.

Marmo

必比登££Italian

The former Guardian Assurance Building makes a charming spot for a restaurant, thanks to its characterful interiors with high ceilings, parquet flooring and panelled walls. The rustic look is a perfect fit for this osteria-cum-wine-bar, where the concise menu of classic Italian dishes adheres to the old adage that 'less is more' – straightforward options like tagliolini with Devon crab, tomato and almond deliver on flavour with just a few ingredients. If you needed more reasons to visit, the service is confident and personable, and it all comes with an appealing price tag.

RAGÙ Restaurant

必比登££Italian

Like most of the restaurants occupying the reclaimed shipping containers in Wapping Wharf, this authentic Italian eatery is cool, compact and totally irresistible. Coming from the same team as nearby COR, what it lacks in size it makes up for in flavour, with each simply prepared dish utilising the well-sourced seasonal ingredients to maximum effect. The menu’s designed for sharing and the prices are generous, so order in abundance and revel in everything from the moreish garlic and rosemary focaccia to the fish and meat cooked over fire. Finish with their creative take on tiramisu.

BOX-E

必比登££Modern British

Located inside a converted shipping container in Bristol's hipster-foodie haven of Wapping Wharf, this compact restaurant comes clad in chipboard and plywood – and with a terrace that almost triples its size. The husband-and-wife team offer a warm welcome and will ensure you're well looked after, with Tessa providing engaging service and knowledgeable wine recommendations, while Elliot crafts generous, boldly flavoured dishes. Soy-glazed onglet is a fine example of what this kitchen is about, as is the excellent panna cotta to finish.

Root

必比登££Modern Cuisine

This busy, welcoming little restaurant occupies five first-floor shipping containers on Wapping Wharf, a thriving neighbourhood with an array of top eateries. Vegetables lead the way here, with the majority of dishes being vegetarian and utilising the best produce from small local suppliers in simple yet flavour-packed sharing plates. Ingredients from carrots to hispi cabbage are elevated with well-balanced and wholly satisfying flavour combinations. There’s a terrific buzz and the service team run their deservedly popular restaurant admirably smoothly.

COR

必比登££Modern British

The epitome of a neighbourhood restaurant, COR is imbued with an air of contagious positivity that is a perfect fit for this buzzy area of Bristol. Its look is somewhere between a Mediterranean restaurant and a tapas bar, with some counter dining and shelves bursting with cookery books and wine. The dishes take on a similarly Mediterranean influence, as evidenced by the option of boquerones or burrata to kick things off. Save some room for pudding, because the crème caramel is a real treat.

Little Hollows Pasta

必比登££Italian

Bristol's pasta-lovers are really being spoilt with this rustic bistro run by a charming and knowledgeable team. The pasta itself is freshly made each morning beside the window, catching the eyes of passers-by before being fashioned into bright, flavour-packed dishes. The options are often vegetable-centric, such as agnolotti with a delicious mix of cherry tomatoes, garlic, mascarpone, fior di latte and parmesan. For dessert, you can end on a high with Italian classics including a generously portioned tiramisu. The set lunch menu is quite the bargain.

Root

必比登££Vegetarian, Modern Cuisine

The views of Wells Cathedral alone are enough to attract anyone here, but add in an appealing veg-led menu of small plates, great prices and eager-to-please service, and you have a restaurant we’d all like to have on our doorstep. The chefs let the ingredients shine, showing just what wonderful flavours humble vegetables can achieve. While you decide what to order, ask for the fried cheese choux puffs – a smooth, utterly delicious treat.

Goat On The Roof

必比登££Modern Cuisine

A former bank is now this bright and airy restaurant where plenty of natural light floods in through the large windows. There's an understated elegance to the décor and the counter is the place to sit if you want to discuss the concise yet quality wine list with the enthusiastic team. The appealingly varied cooking offers sharing plates that draw inspiration from multiple sources but are rooted in the British larder. The fish 'gilda' snack is a prime example, offering plenty of flavour in the harmonious combination of trout, quail egg and smoked haddock.

The Blaise Inn

必比登££Traditional Cuisine

Situated in the suburbs, close to the famous folly of Blaise Castle, this simply decorated village inn serves good value, traditional British dishes cooked with a skilful, modern approach – make sure you save room for dessert! As well as quality ales and a well-chosen wine list, you'll find a pleasant rear courtyard in which to enjoy them. Personable service completes the picture.

Queen of Cups

必比登££Middle Eastern, Mediterranean Cuisine

This deliciously different restaurant sits within a rustic 17C inn in the heart of Glastonbury, and comes with numerous seating areas, including a cosy courtyard for sunny days. Menus showcase West Country produce and the resulting Middle Eastern and Mediterranean small plates burst with colour and flavour. Grab a friend, go for the chef’s selection entitled the ‘Queen’s Feast’ and accompany it with the ‘sharing ciders’.

Red Lion East Chisenbury

£££Classic Cuisine

Situated in a bucolic location on the edge of Salisbury Plain, this pretty thatched pub is made even more characterful by a hotchpotch of decorative touches. The generously flavoured dishes demonstrate that this is a classically trained kitchen using well-sourced ingredients; the Chateaubriand for two with chips and béarnaise sauce is a popular choice. Well-equipped bedrooms have private terraces overlooking the river, allowing you to extend your visit and explore the surrounding Wiltshire countryside.

Bunch of Grapes

££Modern British

The Bunch of Grapes might be the oldest pub in this historic town but it now comes with an appealing modern edge and a deli selling tempting treats. Downstairs has a pubby feel, while upstairs has more of a restaurant vibe, and you can have anything from a burger to an ambitious tasting menu.

The Longs Arms

£££Traditional British

It’s hard not to like this handsome Bath stone pub with character to spare, set opposite a medieval church in a sleepy Cotswolds village. It’s a family-run affair with Chef-Owner Robert Allcock proudly preparing an extensive menu that flirts with creativity but remains pleasingly rich in traditional pub favourites. Fishcakes, sausage and mash, steak and kidney pie – when you're in need of something hearty and robustly flavoured, this is the place to come. To finish, it's hard to look past the selection of homemade ice creams.

The Great Bustard

£££Modern British

‘Immaculate’ is the best way to describe this beautifully restored 19th-century property, located in a pretty village and surrounded by manicured grounds. The pub area is all country warmth and roaring fires, while the restaurant is bright and modern thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows. The menu aims to please all-comers, with steaks and burgers joined by more elaborate preparations like sea bass with Morteau sausage and girolles. Make the most of the spectacular renovation by staying the night in one of the 10 bedrooms, split between the main house and courtyard.

Bath Arms

££Modern British

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.

Walled Garden

££Modern British

The titular garden is that of the exquisite Lucknam Park, one of the finest country house hotels in all the land. Hidden within the carefully manicured hedges, behind the 18th-century manor house, is this inviting, glass-enclosed brasserie. Sit on the gorgeous terrace or at oversized, marble-topped tables in the bright, pristine dining room and choose from a concise selection of vibrant, proudly executed dishes underpinned by textbook culinary technique. Pastas, risottos and freshly fired pizzas add to the Mediterranean vibe, while the day boat fish is hard to resist.

Castle Inn

££Modern British

This charming inn makes a delightful pitstop, especially for those visiting the nearby motor racing circuit. The menu is just what you want to see in a place like this: a blackboard of daily specials and dishes that are punchy and full of flavour. In season, local game is always worth ordering and the desserts are consistently good too. The building dates back to the 12th century and boasts many original features; comfortable, immaculately appointed bedrooms complete the picture.

Oak

££Vegetarian, Vegan

An eco-conscious ethos is the guiding light for this unpretentious bistro and its original vegetarian and vegan dishes. When dining in the front part of the restaurant, you'll find shelves adorned with ingredients from their allotment just outside the city – which provides around 40% of their produce. The well-priced small plates are designed for sharing, with the kitchen's knack for using complementary flavours and textures on show in the likes of Jerusalem artichoke with ajo blanco and apple & shallot vinaigrette. A five-course ‘feasting menu’ is available at dinner if you're feeling indecis

Upstairs at Landrace

££Mediterranean Cuisine

Landrace itself is an artisan bakery, which specialises in sourdough bread from stoneground British grains; if you can tear yourself away from the delicious aroma of the baking, head upstairs and you'll find this simply decorated restaurant with a pleasantly bright feel. The daily menu lists seasonal British dishes which are carefully cooked and full of rustic flavours, utilising produce from Brixham turbot to Scottish porcini. The bread and butter to start is, of course, a highlight and you may even consider ordering a second portion.

Menu Gordon Jones

££££Modern Cuisine

This tiny, highly likeable restaurant has a relaxed, cheerful feel, which is a reflection of its easy-going Chef-Owner. The room is dominated by an open kitchen, where you can watch Gordon preparing creative, complex dishes. The daily changing surprise menu delivers punchy flavour combinations and several playful elements. He serves many of the dishes himself and chats with guests, adding to the feel that this is a very personal operation.

Robun

££Japanese

This skilfully run Japanese restaurant takes its inspiration from 19C author Kanagaki Robun, who is credited with introducing barbecued food to Japan. The cooking reflects his influence, with dishes from the robata grill forming the central part of a menu that is distinguished by fresh produce and an authentic approach. Excellent sushi and a strikingly presented afternoon tea also stand out on the vast menu.

Beckford Canteen

££Modern British

A former Georgian greenhouse has been transformed into this light, airy restaurant with whitewashed walls, a vaulted ceiling and a feature wall decorated with over 90 green plates. The concise all-day menu comprises a range of sharply executed dishes that showcase the kitchen’s ability to hold back and let their quality produce do the talking – such as the megrim sole with Café de Paris butter. Window counter seats are held back for walk-ins and it’s worth buying some wine from their sister operation, Beckford Bottle Shop, which you can enjoy with your meal for a generous corkage. Service is s

Emberwood

££Modern British

Situated inside the smartly refurbished Francis Hotel, this luxurious brasserie stylishly blends its elegant mouldings and traditional features with a modern open kitchen and counter seating. The kitchen proudly follows the seasons – look out for the catch of the day from St. Mawes market – and incorporates enticing Mediterranean touches. Dishes like red mullet with an intense yet fresh-tasting crab risotto showcase everything this kitchen is good at. For dessert, choose from the menu or go old school and pick whichever cake most entices you from the trolley.

🕐 Mo-Su 12:00-23:00

Montagu's Mews

£££Modern Cuisine

18th-century writer and women’s education advocate Elizabeth Montagu lends her name to this restaurant set inside the old carriage houses of her former home. The estate is now the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa and an extensive garden separates the main hotel from the restaurant, making for a lovely early evening stroll in good weather. The menu showcases seasonal produce from the south west, such as Somerset lamb, with the quality of the ingredients shining through in well-honed and attractive dishes.

Bath Priory

££££Modern British

This elegant restaurant is housed inside a charming country house hotel of the same name, which boasts an immaculately kept rear garden and a delightful terrace that makes the perfect spot for an aperitif. The seasonal à la carte showcases the kitchen’s skills, offering quality British produce – like Wiltshire lamb loin – in carefully executed dishes. Ingredient combinations are well thought-out and dishes are always full of flavour.

wilks

££££Modern Cuisine

Fitting in nicely among a parade of independent shops in the west of the city, this intimate operation holds just three tables. The set menu features plenty of prime seafood like hand-dived Orkney scallops and succulent wild turbot, alongside meats such as best end of lamb. This seasonal produce is often accompanied by subtle international flavours and an edge of modernity, but a classical French base is never far away. France dominates the wine list too, with small-scale producers pushed to the fore, many of which are organic and biodynamic.

Bell

££Modern Cuisine

The Bell is not just a pub but a true village hub. A charming 300-year-old building, it comprises a bar, a restaurant, bedrooms and even a café to make itself useful no matter when you're visiting. The carefully executed cooking ensures the flavours of the high-quality ingredients shine through, be that in lighter dishes such as scallop ceviche with fennel or pub classics like beer-battered haddock and chips. The surrounding 19,000-acre Ramsbury Estate provides not just a picturesque setting but also much of the seasonal produce that powers the menu.

Grey's

£££International

Sitting within the luxurious Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, but with a feel all of its own, is this elegant grey-hued restaurant – ask for a booth or dine in the garden in the summer months. It presents a slightly less formal alternative to The Dining Room, serving a menu of globally influenced small plates that's divided into 'Earth', 'Land' and 'Sea', often featuring salad and vegetables from the kitchen garden. The cooking showcases well-defined flavours and careful craft, in dishes like prawn tortellini with coconut bisque. On Sundays, you can enjoy a traditional roast lunch.

The Three Horseshoes

££Traditional British

Large fireplaces, stone floors and whitewashed walls feature inside this renovated 17C pub. The pared-back décor is joined by similarly straightforward and equally appealing cooking that includes hearty dishes like rabbit pie and mince on toast. This approach allows the ingredients to speak for themselves, with local Somerset produce a feature. Five bedrooms add to the inn’s appeal, as do an attractive terrace and small walled garden.

The Dog House

££Meats and Grills

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.

DA COSTA

£££Italian

The stunning Art Farm development makes a fitting home for this equally gorgeous restaurant. As soon as you enter, you’re met with the enticing aroma of wood-fired cooking, emanating from the breathtakingly designed open kitchen. With pots, pans and even chairs hanging from the ceiling, plus an abundance of wooden furnishings, it’s like dining in a particularly chic country kitchen. The menu looks to all things Italian, with terrific hand-cut pasta and hearty, wholesome flavours across the board – bigoli with venison ragu is the epitome of the style.

Greyhound on the Test

££British Contemporary

The picturesque town of Stockbridge plays host to this striking mustard-coloured pub with low beams, elegant décor and a wood-burning stove. The chatty team deliver appealing modern British dishes crafted from local produce. Homely bedrooms and a mile of River Test fishing rights complete the picture.

Malverleys

£££Modern British

Tucked away in what is surely one of England’s prettiest hamlets, dining here is like stumbling upon a hidden slice of paradise. Surrounded by beautifully kept grounds but also their own farm, the restaurant sits inside a gorgeous farmhouse alongside a bakery and shop. Take your seat in the dining room in full view of the open kitchen and feast on the seasonal dishes that make great use of the wood-fired oven. Grilled spatchcock quail with cherries from the estate is a prime example, succulent and full of gamey flavour.

The Pony Chew Valley

££Modern Cuisine

Featuring stunning views over the eponymous valley, this aptly named former pub now operates more as a restaurant, with a lengthy refurbishment expanding its scope to include an orangery dining room and a cookery school. The menu uses the seasons as a guide and showcases produce from the kitchen garden in vibrant, colourful dishes which mix creative and a few traditional elements – look out for the 'Pony Garden Salad' that comes as an extra course at dinner. The midweek set menu offers great value for money.

Botanical Rooms

££££Modern British

Set within the grounds of The Newt in Somerset, a striking Georgian estate that houses a number of mini-hotels, sits a beautiful mellow stone building. Within it is a stunning oak-panelled dining room, with a glass-covered courtyard and a laid-back feel. Inside a semi-open kitchen, the chefs skilfully handle seasonal local produce, be it lamb from the estate or seafood from the Dorset coast, with the wood-fired grill often used to good effect. The polite and efficient service ensures everything runs smoothly within this eminently elegant setting.

Adelina Yard

£££Modern Cuisine

The experienced chef-owners named their first restaurant after their old home. Sit at the chef's table to watch all the action or at the far end of the L-shaped room overlooking the quay. Attractively presented, well-balanced modern dishes are sometimes brought to the tables by the chefs themselves.

The Vineyard

£££Modern Cuisine

This restaurant is temporarily closed for refurbishment.Situated within a glamorous hotel of the same name, this smart and stylish restaurant has wine embedded in its bones. Whilst not actually situated on a vineyard, there is one nearby – which provides some local sparkling wines – and the overall list offers a huge selection, including over 70 options by the glass. These serve as the perfect accompaniment to elegantly presented dishes that are elevated by the skilful preparation of the high-quality ingredients. The main restaurant serves an à la carte, while The Tasting Room offers a seasona

Wilder

££££Modern Cuisine

Everyone is asked to arrive at this well-run restaurant at 7pm – and that usually includes a loyal band of locals. The 3-hour menu takes on a surprise tasting format and there’s the option of matching wines or non-alcoholic options. Humble ingredients are used in ambitious, sometimes rather unusual combinations, which are precisely prepared. Service is structured and passionate, with dishes delivered by the chefs themselves.

The Woodspeen

£££Modern Cuisine

It might be set within a restored 19th-century farmhouse, but The Woodspeen has a contemporary feel courtesy of its fine terrace and an airy, Scandic-style extension with a vaulted arch ceiling. Menus centre on the seasons and bring together ingredients from the kitchen garden and the surrounding area, in dishes that utilise big, punchy flavours – such as anchovy emulsion and wild garlic salsa with roast lamb rump. Arrive early for a drink in the intimate bar; the ‘25 Yards’ gin is crafted using botanicals from their garden.

1 York Place

£££European

Deep within the Georgian lanes of Clifton, lies this neighbourhood bistro with an uncluttered feel. Sit on the ground floor to make the most of the natural light flooding in the large windows, or head down the spiral staircase for a more intimate setting. The date-stamped menu takes a pan-European approach, be it ricotta gnudi from Italy, squid ink bomba rice from Spain or veal schnitzel from Austria. The relaxed service is delivered with a smile and sharing dishes like whole roast chicken add to the conviviality.

Lido Restaurant

££Mediterranean Cuisine

This unique restaurant boasts a charming and highly enviable location, directly overlooking a restored Victorian lido. Snack on small plates in the poolside bar, or head up to the first-floor former viewing gallery, where the retractable floor-to-ceiling doors and Mediterranean-inspired cooking will have you feeling like you're on holiday. Dishes such as wood-roasted Devon scallops with garlic butter and sweet herbs look simple but are full of bright, fresh flavours thanks to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs.

Chef's Table

£££Modern British

In the old part of the city close to the famous docks you’ll find this intimate, personally run, 2-room restaurant, with a small front terrace, a warm service team and a buzzing atmosphere. The two menus – most diners plump for the tasting menu – offer original, modern and sometimes intricate dishes, which are aesthetically striking and full of flavour.

Dongnae

£££Korean

Bristol’s lovers of Korean food have found their haven in this charmingly run restaurant in the trendy Redland neighbourhood. The authentic cooking can be sampled as either a set menu or an à la carte of sharing plates, where each dish is cooked with care and precision using high-quality produce. The dishes from the charcoal grill – such as samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) – are particularly enjoyable, thanks to the superb accompanying condiments that are expertly spiced and fermented to bring extra layers of flavour to the central ingredients.

littlefrench

£££French

This is the kind of friendly neighbourhood bistro that warms your soul and widens your smile, where you will be warmly welcomed by a relaxed team who swiftly put you at ease. The menu wears its French heart on its sleeve, with the likes of soufflé Suissesse to start and prune and armagnac tart to finish; across the board, the well-executed dishes are fresh, rustic and pack in plenty of flavour. If you've come in a pair, go for one of the enticing sharing dishes, such as côte de boeuf with frites.

The Avenue

££££Modern British

When visiting The Avenue, it would be a good idea to arrive early and explore some of the 60-acre grounds surrounding Lainston House, a fine 17th-century country manor. Inside, the two-roomed restaurant plays host to a detailed tasting menu with a twist, which allows diners to choose the starter, main course and dessert, while the smaller ‘in between’ courses are fixed. The cooking is intricate and complex, allowing the chefs to show off their technical skills. Add a wine pairing to make an occasion of your visit.

The Clockspire

£££Modern British

There's a lot of beautiful restaurants around, but Clockspire might be one of the most strikingly attractive spots you'll find. Housed within a converted 19th-century school, its high ceiling and exposed rafters provide plenty of ecclesiastical 'wow factor', while the lavishness of the refurbishment is mightily impressive. As you may expect, the dishes are impeccably presented and the polished cooking makes good use of its British ingredients. The slick service comes with a personal touch that feels as though the team really care about your experience.

Queens Arms

££Modern British

There’s always something going on at this hub-of-the-village pub, which comes with a modern look and immaculately furnished bedrooms. Country cooking evolves with the seasons and focuses on sustainable ingredients: veg is supplied by a villager, pork is reared locally and seafood is from the Jurassic Coast.

The Ox Barn

£££Modern British

This delightful barn conversion sits in an idyllic rural location in the heart of the Cotswolds, forming part of the sumptuous Thyme hotel and surrounded by Provençal-style gardens. A nature-to-plate philosophy runs through the menu, with ingredients from the kitchen gardens and farm regularly appearing. The pared-back, flavoursome dishes could include the likes of harissa mussels on toast or a wonderful 'Gateau Victoire' for dessert. The large communal table in front of the open kitchen is the best place to sit if you come with a group of friends.

Juliet

££Traditional Cuisine

Imagine dropping a French bistro into the Cotswolds and you’ve got something a lot like Juliet. Combining a buzzy vibe with an enthusiastic and affable team, plus delightful dishes from beyond France’s borders, it’s easy to see why the place is so popular. The menu largely sticks to the classics, providing satisfying versions of time-honoured favourites; keep an eye on the dish of the day, for treats such as cavatelli with lamb ragù. If you’re celebrating, consider booking the private Piano Bar, where a live musician will soundtrack your evening.

The Bell Inn

££Traditional British

Looking every inch the quintessential Cotswolds pub, The Bell Inn’s rustic charm is hard to resist with its cosy bar, impressive inglenook fireplace, stone walls and 16th-century origins. The appealing menu offers a mix of pub favourites – from a half pint of prawns to a choice of steaks – as well as restaurant-style dishes and homemade pizzas, which are all brought to the table by a friendly team. Nicely furnished bedrooms complete the picture.

The Green

££Modern British

A pretty, listed stone property with an enclosed garden terrace, this restaurant is a perfect fit for the picturesque market town of Sherborne. The charming interior features antique furniture, fresh flowers on every table and regularly changing artwork. Dishes are based on tried-and-tested combinations, with desserts like crème d'amande tart being a highlight. The friendly, caring team run the restaurant with pride and a smile.

Sauce

£££Modern British

Something of a hidden gem, this inviting brasserie-style restaurant is situated within a Palladian country house hotel, itself secreted down the narrow lane of an attractive Cotswolds town. Chef Jamie McCallum is quietly putting all his experience to use here on straightforward yet refined dishes where each plate is pleasingly uncluttered. A superb beef Wellington shows the kitchen at its best, accompanied by a pot of deep, rich and glossy Madeira reduction. When execution is skilled and ingredients are strong, there’s little need for anything else.

Chesil Rectory

££British Contemporary

This double-gabled wattle and daub house dates from the 15C and its hugely characterful interior takes in heavy beams and a large inglenook fireplace. Classically based dishes are informed by local, seasonal produce and given a modern twist by the experienced team. Service is friendly.

Wellington Arms

££British Contemporary

At this smart cream pub they have their own herb and vegetable beds, keep sheep, pigs, chickens and bees, and source the rest of their meats from within 20 miles. Menus feature 6 dishes per course – supplemented by a selection of specials – and cooking is generous and satisfying. Smart, rustic bedrooms come with slate floors, sheepskin rugs and big, comfy beds.

Hartnett Holder & Co

£££Italian

Lime Wood Hotel, an impressive light stone mansion in the heart of the New Forest, is the home for this lovely restaurant which looks out onto the property's extensive gardens. Take a seat in the glass-roofed bar and kick things off with a cocktail from their extensive list. The rustic cooking leans heavily into the ingredient-led ethos of Italian cuisine, with both Angela Harnett and Luke Holder (who is more often the one in the kitchen) bringing their considerable experience to proceedings.

Cowley Manor

£££Modern British

This restaurant inside a glorious Cotswolds country house hotel offers bold, vibrant cooking that’s worthy of the rather lovely setting. Start with a drink in the sleek bar, before settling in the panelled dining room that cleverly fuses its original features with more modern elements. The cooking has Mediterranean influences and uses British ingredients well, in dishes like the house-made taglioni with Cornish lobster and pickled chilli. For dessert, their fresh-out-the-oven madeleines are hard to resist.

The Woolpack Inn

££Modern British

Embedded within the Hampshire countryside, this attractively restored 18th-century inn offers the complete package when exploring the area. Outside is a market garden that supplies the kitchen and upstairs are stylish bedrooms named after game birds. You may find such birds on the seasonal menu too, which offers clean, controlled cooking utilising high-quality ingredients. If it’s on the menu, don’t miss out on the terrific Portland crab agnolotti with a deep, rich bisque. The friendly team offer warm, genuine hospitality that really puts you at ease.

White Hart at Fyfield

££Modern British

There’s a lot to love about this imposing 15th-century chantry house. There’s the three-storey, vaulted dining room for starters, joined by a cosy open-fired bar and a minstrels’ gallery, while outside you’ll find a terrace, a vegetable garden and an outdoor kitchen with wood-fired oven. The cooking is guided by their own seasonal produce, with both British and Mediterranean influences on the flavoursome, carefully prepared dishes. The friendly service team run the restaurant well.