The Royal Oak Inn

On the outskirts of Cheltenham and close to the town's famous racecourse, this 16th-century pub was once owned by England cricket legend Tom Graveney. In 2012 former leaseholders Simon and Kate, who have been here for over a decade, bought the free house and continue to offer their hospitality. The couple now own The Gloucester Old Spot, Cheltenham (see entry), too. Enjoy well-kept local cask ales, real ciders and delicious food in the snug, the comfortable dining room or the heated patio overlooking a pretty beer garden. Menus include braised lamb shank, pork belly, vegetable curry, pan-fried duck breast and lunchtime filled ciabattas. There is a beer festival at Whitsun and an August Bank Holiday cider festival.