In a ‘very quiet’ Chew valley hamlet criss-crossed by public footpaths ideal for a ramble, this ‘most appealing’ inn is ‘a good base and a real bargain’, say Guide readers this year. In summer, the flowerbeds and hanging baskets fronting the row of former miners’ cottages come abloom; parasols open over alfresco food and drinks. When winter creeps in, a fire blazes in the low-beamed bar, its books, sofas and log piles a ‘thoroughly attractive’ backdrop to dinner. Bedrooms are modern, with ‘good furniture, fittings and lighting’. ‘Our room was nice – on the small side, but fine for a night’s stay. I liked the efficient shower in the bathroom.’ Join locals over pints of Butcombe in the evening, then order from Christian Wragg’s menu of honest fare: fish from Cornwall, local game in season, ‘plenty of veg’, a much-appreciated passion fruit and mango roulade. (‘Roasts dominated on a Sunday evening, with a fine Yorkshire pudding.’) ‘There’s no danger of going hungry – the portions are generous.’ In the morning, ‘the fresh fruit platter was particularly enjoyed’. (Peter Anderson, and others)