The Loft at Sherborne s Historic Quarter

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.

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.