The Acorn Inn

Attractively set at the heart of a quaint, historic village and surrounded by unspoilt rolling countryside, this traditional 16th-century village inn was the model for Thomas Hardy's Sow and Acorn in Tess of the d'Urbervilles. The infamous Judge Jeffreys used one of the rooms in the inn as a court. The Acorn is an excellent base from which to explore Hardy Country and the beautiful Dorset coastline and many of the comfortable bedrooms boast four-poster beds. Oak-panelled bars with flagstone floors and blazing log fires in carved Hamstone fireplaces and elegantly decorated dining areas adorned with paintings offer a relaxed and civilised ambience for savouring some imaginative food. Using seasonal produce from local farms and estates and fish from Bridport, the modern British repertoire takes in smoked venison with celeriac remoulade, mixed leaves and truffle oil dressing; pork belly with mixed bean and chorizo cassoulet, braised fennel and pan juices; venison hotpot with caramelised onions and braised red cabbage; and chicken, mushroom and tarragon pie with spring onion mash and winter vegetables. Lighter lunchtime options include smoked salmon and crayfish open sandwich; cider-steamed River Exe mussels with rosemary and apple sauce; potted shrimps with toast, radish and cucumber salad and lemon dressing; and traditional bar snacks like ploughman's, and baked ham, egg and triple-cooked chips. Those with a sweet tooth should leave room for warm chocolate brownie with raspberry ripple ice cream, or the apple crumble with warm clove custard. To drink, there's Otter and Doom Bar on tap and a list of 11 wines by the glass and 100 malt whiskies. There are some wonderful walks from the front door so don't forget to pack your boots. Booking for meals may be required.