Poppy Lodge

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.

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.

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.