It was nearly Howard's end in 2015 before two local families stepped in to restore the fortunes of this 'delightful gem of a pub-with-rooms', in a village on the northern fringes of the Cotswolds. A creative make-over has preserved the character of the beamed, flagstone-floored bar, a social hub with creaky leather armchairs by a log fire. The walls are hung with fun artwork and old photographs. 'We did enjoy our night's stay. We had a wonderful room,' report readers, who spent the night after a theatre visit in Stratford. 'It is excellent value for money.' Individually styled bedrooms have bags of character. Most have a bath and shower, and all are supplied with percolator coffee and gingerbread. The dual-aspect Village Room has a half-tester bed, a view of the green complete with spreading chestnut tree. Study Room, under the eaves, can sleep a family. The imaginative menu includes dishes such as gnocchi with fresh peas, violet artichoke, asparagus and truffled goats curd. Service is slick and tables hold vases of fresh flowers. 'Breakfast had a huge choice, with the option of a very full English.' (C and E S)