The Yew Tree Inn

This fine 17th-century free house occupies a pleasant setting close to Highclere Castle. Full of charm and character, the pub blends original features like old beams, tiled floors, and logs smouldering in the inglenook fireplaces with the contemporary refinements of crisp linen and sparkling glassware. Several interconnecting rooms provide a choice of dining areas, and unusual real ales, ciders and 15 wines by the glass are served in the bar. The kitchen offers traditional British food and time-honoured classics from the French culinary canon. The Anglo-French cooking takes a brasserie approach, with the menu split into sections like hors d'oeuvres, fish and seafood, pies and puddings, and roasts and grills, and delivers accomplished, well-presented dishes that are driven by quality ingredients. A memorable meal might kick off with potted duck with Agen prunes and Madeira jelly, before moving on to roast venison 'Pierre Koffmann' with chocolate sauce. The dessert menu could include blackberry and apple crumble or sherry trifle.