The Swan

The striking, timber-framed Swan has been welcoming guests since the 15th century and is a splendid example of Elizabethan architecture in this historic market town. Bristling with wonky beams and timbers, ancient brick floors, fine oak panels, inglenook fireplaces and cosy nooks and crannies, it is the quintessential English inn. Choose from classic pub dishes in the characterful bar, which is full of Second World War memorabilia as it often hosted pilots from Lavenham airfield, or head for the atmospheric Gallery restaurant and tuck into modern British dishes beneath soaring barn-style rafters and the impressive minstrels' gallery. Typically, start with confit pig's cheek with lentil and pancetta broth, follow with seared monkfish with mussel and clam chowder, or roast poussin with truffle and wild mushroom risotto, and finish with chocolate fondant plum pudding.