Bedford Lodge Hotel

Unsurprisingly popular with the racing fraternity who frequent the town, the combination of period elegance and leisurely informality at this former Georgian hunting lodge is a winning one. A collection of racing silks and equine artworks play to the crowd, while outside the lovely garden is a relaxing spot. The smart Orangery Restaurant serves up an inventive menu which makes the most of local ingredients in sharp, modern and ambitious dishes. Begin perhaps with Earl Grey tea-smoked breast of duck with honey, mustard seeds and celeriac remoulade and orange reduction, before pan-fried rolled fillet of hake with morel and sorrel risotto, and a fishy cockle and garden pea velouté. Finish with vanilla crème brûlée paired with strawberry and basil salad.