The Greyhound Inn

This is a proper village inn with locals enjoying pints in the bar, scrubbed tables, robust food, and light, creaky-floored bedrooms. In the Vale of the White Horse, close to both Oxford’s charms and excellent walks, the red brick Georgian inn has been turned into a popular pub by owners Martyn Reed and Catriona Galbraith. ‘The welcome was friendly,’ say readers who have returned several times. ‘We were all highly impressed.’ There are local ales and pub quizzes in the beamed bar with a wood-burner in the inglenook fireplace. Eat here or in the red-walled dining area on mouth-watering dishes from chef Martin Sherriff, such such as wild mushroom and hazelnut parfait, pickled brambles, sherry gel, shallot jam, crispy shallots, maple glazed brioche, as well as pub classics. ‘Beautifully decorated’ bedrooms, on the first and second floors, are in soft country colours with a mix of vintage and painted furniture, fresh milk and home-made biscuits; most with bath and shower. Some have exposed beams and timbers, such as the family suite in the eaves. ‘Excellent breakfasts’ include home-made granola, eggs cooked to order and veggie options. (Rob and Shirley Lyne)