Colston Bassett, British, Modern Restaurant Guide

A “wonderfully atmospheric place, with idiosyncratic but comfortably plush surroundings” that was born when founder, the late Imogen Skirving, decided to open the doors to her family home three decades back. This country house oasis is now run by her granddaughter Lila Arora, with chef Gary Booth continuing their longtime focus on locally sourced produce, from Belvoir game to “truly delicious soufflés of the savoury and sweet variety”. Further praise this year for the “professional yet friendly service” – clearly this “quirky place knows what it’s doing” after all these years.

“Owned by ex-England cricketer Stuart Broad, this country pub has hit a rich seam of form with its “great vibe”, “interesting menu of well-cooked food” and “super Sunday lunch”. It’s also enjoying a second innings, having been refurbished to the tune of £1.3 million following a disastrous fire in 2022.