The Eagle and Child

Reputed the oldest inn in England, dating back to 947 AD and once a hospice to shelter lepers, The Eagle and Child is part of the Royalist Hotel. The social hub of the hotel and village, serving local ales on handpump, it also delivers pub food that manages to be both rustic and accomplished. Informality and flexibility go hand-in-hand with flagstone floors, oak beams and rustic tables; the light-flooded conservatory offering a striking contrast to the character, low-ceilinged dining room. Expect range of seasonal pub classics, from braised lamb shank to fish and chips, and more innovative plates like beetroot and smoked cheese soufflée with roast shallot purée.