The Hop Pocket

As you settle into your seat inside this beautiful 16th-century barn, you’re struck by what a stunning restaurant setting it is. Situated on the Netherwood Estate, ensure you take a look around its garden before dining, as much of the produce you see will be on your plate a little later. The kitchen is run under the auspices of experienced operator Andrew Sheridan and pairs the local produce with occasional East Asian influences, such as Japanese milk bread. Save yourself the journey home by staying over in one of the luxury bedrooms on the other side of the courtyard.

In the 19C this was home to a wheelwright; then it was a stop for drovers and waggoners to enjoy a quick snack or ‘bait’; now it’s a friendly country pub welcoming allcomers with its rustic look and friendly atmosphere. The assured yet understated modern British dishes are well priced and nicely balanced and, most importantly, deliver bags of flavour. Make a night of it and book a lodge with a hot tub.

In finer weather, you must aim for a table on the terrace at this restaurant set within the famous The Cottage in the Wood hotel. Built – funnily enough – in 1919, it boasts one of the best panoramic views of the English countryside that you will find. The restaurant itself is a bright, stylish place serving both a tasting menu and an à la carte. A proudly British spirit shines through in the cooking, from the use of Exmoor caviar and Evesham asparagus to a butter sauce flavoured with English sparkling wine. The service is well-paced and the whole experience comes at a sensible price tag.