Overlooking the Blackdown Hills, a welcoming, dog-friendly country pub in an 18th century coaching Inn. It is surrounded by rolling fields and the Neroche Staple Fitzpaine Herepath  (a 13.5 mile off-road trail) is close by.  Bedrooms are neat and comfortable, and supplied with tea, coffee, bottled water; Chard is large enough to accommodate a family of four. In the bar, local ciders and wines accompany home-made food, such as calves liver with crispy bacon, creamy mash and gravy or Dover sole Benoit with Fowey mussels and a white wine crème fraîche sauce, and a choice of vegetarian and vegan dishes, all based on locally sourced ingredients.

Close to the Ridgeway path (Europe’s oldest pathway), a small, friendly pub serving cask ales from local and micro breweries, and tasty food. The original well can be viewed through a glass panel in the restaurant floor. Comfortable accommodation is in an annexe; pets are welcome in ground floor rooms. 3 miles N of Marlborough.

With parts dating back to the 18th century, an old pub near the high street has received a stylish revamp. The bar (moody colours, leather Chesterfield seating, wide wooden floorboards) has pub fare, craft beers and ales, wines and local spirits. Contemporary bedrooms (two are dog-friendly) include four self-catering suites. Breakfast is served until 11.30 am. Grab some food for lunch, a picnic or provisions for a light supper from Golding’s Deli. In the same ownership, Market Bistro next door has seasonal and tasting menus.

Beside the River Eamont, a 17th-century coaching inn (Thwaites) has been revamped to make the most of its idyllic surroundings. It has a large modern rooftop sun terrace with splendid views, and garden seating by the water’s edge. On cold days, the cosy interior, furnished with plaids and reclaimed timber, is warmed by blazing fires. Food is served throughout the day. Some of the rustic and plainly styled bedrooms (a few are in a separate building) have views of Lake Ullswater.

Ten minutes from Ascot Racecourse, this 18th-century red-brick pub is a cert for equine devotees and rural inn-seekers alike. There are nooks and crannies, tweedy fabrics. original stone floors and a welcoming open fire in cooler months. Some of the comfortable bedrooms have views over the peaceful garden which has plenty of seating and a cosy Cabana for the ultimate outdoor dining experience. Traditional pub fare is supplemented with dishes such as Wild Boar sausages, mash, lentils and savoy cabbage or braised rabbit, mustard root vegetables and tarragon.