The Bell Inn

This handsome Georgian inn tucked away in the heart of the New Forest is part-owned by the Bramshaw Golf Club, making it an ideal '19th hole' to retire to after a workout on the fairways. For non-golfers it is an excellent base for exploring the National Park, where an old-time atmosphere still permeates the cosy bar, and Briscoe's restaurant aims for a more chic modern style blending period character with a smart contemporary look. The kitchen takes a serious approach to keeping things local - much of the produce comes from the New Forest area, and is brought together in dishes that show ambition and ingenuity, as in a starter of langoustines with cured ham and a lentil and red pepper salsa. Next up, New Forest pork from pigs that feed on the forest's acorns arrives as a trio comprising fillet, belly and braised cheek cromesquis partnered by grain mustard mash and wilted spinach. Blueberry parfait with toasted brioche and popcorn ice cream finishes on an inventive note.