The Boar's Head

Here is a combination of pub, first-class restaurant and excellent accommodation that works a treat in this lovely downland village. Ardington and its twin community, Lockinge, lie within the estate laid out in the 19th century by Lord Wantage, who would no doubt be tickled pinked that it remains very much as he left it. The half-timbered Boar's Head has been serving the local community for the past 150 years, its scrubbed pine tables, candles, fresh flowers and blazing log fires creating just the right atmosphere for today's pub-goer. Everything, from bread to ice cream, and from pasta to pastries, is made on the premises. The menu, which changes regularly, is varied and well known for the chef's fish specialities, featuring whatever comes up daily from Cornish ports. A typical meal might begin with Serrano ham with crazy salad and shaved Manchego; or a plate of Cornwall scallops; to be followed by Newlyn sea bass in pastry with girolle mushrooms in Chardonnay and tomato butter sauce; breast of duck with chorizo, rösti and port sauce; or roast rack of spring lamb with herb crust and minted pea risotto. Finish with a hot pistachio soufflé with iced chocolate cream; or tartlet of blackberry and apple crumble with vanilla. Should you feel inclined to take advantage of one of three well-appointed guest suites, you could explore the region further, since Ardington is an ideal base for walking or cycling, and footpaths wind through nearby villages and run up to the ancient Ridgeway. Golfers will appreciate the several excellent courses nearby, while fly-fishers can obtain a day-pass for the area's well-stocked trout lakes.

Off A417 E of Wantage, next to village church
Nearest station: Didcot Parkway
Nearest motorway: M4 junct 13

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