The Three Tuns Country Inn

One of the few remaining thatched pubs in the New Forest National Park, this picture-perfect, 17th-century survivor is also immediately recognisable for another reason - by the riot of flowers outside. There are five distinct public areas: a comfortable, music-, TV- and games-free lounge bar (with a winter log fire); an oak-beamed Snug, similarly warmed, and with biscuits and water for the dog; a large terrace with a water feature; a huge south-facing garden, with over 2,500 square metres of lawn (and not a bouncy castle in sight, although on sunny days out comes the barbecue), surrounded by fields, trees and grazing ponies; and finally, the 60-seat restaurant. Here, fresh produce and seasonings from around the world are transformed into award-winning dishes and seasonal specials, recognised for their quality by two AA Rosettes. The menus offer something for everyone: if there's time for just a pint of Ringwood Best and a light bar snack, then maybe what will do the trick is moules marinière; six Dorset snails in garlic tarragon butter; bangers and mash; venison pasty; deep-fried cod and chips; or a sandwich. Or, for those with more time to spend, the specials menu offers pan-fried Mudeford sea bass with a fricassée of squid, tomatoes, olives and artichoke; Irish stew with suet dumplings and pearl barley; rabbit pie with penny bun mushrooms; and truffle risotto with crispy egg. For pudding, try the baked cheesecake with preserved fruits, or a plate of British and French artisan and farmhouse cheeses with home-made pickles. A listed barn provides space for functions. Booking for meals may be required.