Exceptional experience with local charm

The Cotswolds village of Castle Combe, with its honey-coloured cottages and picture-postcard setting, has often been hailed as the prettiest village in England, but its most delightful asset is undoubtedly The Castle Inn.

The 12th‑century inn treats diners to a thoughtfully curated menu of seasonally inspired dishes. The team pride themselves on sourcing the fi nest regional ingredients, which they use to craft dishes as classic as the surroundings. It’s a formula that’s working: the inn was crowned Best Trencherman’s Pub in 2023 and has picked up a Michelin listing.

The knock‑out Sunday lunches deserve a special mention. Incredible cuts are sourced from Origin Meats near Bristol, with the slow‑cooked Frampton on Severn lamb shoulder for two being particularly noteworthy. Arrive early, though, as it sells out most weeks.

Not a meat eater? The Castle Inn’s satay of Bromham cauliflower with chilli pak choi, cucumber, toasted peanuts and coriander won’t disappoint.

Drinks are sourced with as much care as the food, and a recent addition to the bar is fellow B Corp business Toast. The brewery crafts ale from surplus bread to reduce food waste and donates all its profits to a charity with the same aim.

Trencherman’s tip: Make a night of it and stay in one of 12 immaculately furnished rooms.