The Manor House Inn

In the pretty village of Ditcheat, between Shepton Mallet and Castle Cary, this handsome red-brick, 17th-century free house belonged to the lord of the manor about 150 years ago when it was known as the White Hart. Convenient for the Royal Bath and West showground and the East Somerset steam railway, it is also boasts views of the Mendips. Flagstone floors and warming log fires in winter add to the charm of the friendly bar, which serves local Butcombe Bitter and regular guest ales, Thatchers cider and up to nine wines by the glass. The seasonal menu may offer starters such as home-baked ratatouille with rich provençale sauce; and scallops in shells with lemon and lime dressing; followed by main courses of braised brisket of beef with creamy horseradish mash and rich Guinness sauce; or guinea fowl breast with spinach, fondant potato and Marsala sauce.