The Bath Arms at Longleat

Built in the 17th century, The Bath Arms occupies a prime position at one of the entrances to Longleat Estate and the famous Safari Park. The building became a public house with rooms in 1732 called the New Inn; it was later renamed the Weymouth Arms, and became the Marquess of Bath Arms in 1850. An ivy-clad stone inn, it has been comfortably refurbished and features two fine beamed bars - one traditional with settles, old wooden tables and an open fire, and a bar for dining. The Wessex Brewery furnishes the public bar with its much-cherished Horningsham Pride ale, while most food is sourced within 50 miles of the pub. Simple menus focus on quality produce, with minimal use of international influences and an emphasis on traditional preserving methods - smoking, curing, potting and pickling. The lunchtime menu has traditional favourites such as traditional fish and chips, chicken Caesar salad and rib-eye steak, but these belie the kitchen team's culinary expertise which has won two AA Rosettes - revealed in dinner dishes such as pan-fried fillet of sea bass, brown shrimps and white bean cassoulet, and roasted guinea fowl with fondant potato, mushrooms and bacon. Stylish accommodation is available.