The Red Lion Freehouse

A ‘laid-back, fire-in-the hearth, village pub atmosphere’ prevails at this charming thatched gastropub with riverside guest house on the edge of Salisbury Plain. It is ‘a lovely place to stay, in beautiful surroundings’. Chef-proprietors Guy and Brittany Manning make everything possible in-house, from Scotch eggs and sourdough to ice cream and doggie treats. You can dine in the bar/restaurant, or in the garden among the nasturtiums and broad beans. The menu includes dishes such as roast Orkney scallops with sweet potato and chorizo, Salisbury Plain venison with RL chocolate black pudding, and chateaubriand of Wiltshire beef. Each dish on the menu features a recommended wine. Across the road, stylish guest rooms have outside decking overlooking the River Avon from which to watch for otters. One reader had the ‘very comfortable’ Benjamin, with large rainwater shower, ‘terrific views, designer hip bath, all the bells and whistles’. The place is ‘excellently run with attentive, well-trained staff and out-of-this world food’. Breakfast brings Brittany’s pastries and a Buck’s Fizz or Bloody Mary to pep you up for the day. ‘Bound to return.’ (JC, ML)