The Pheasant Inn – Shefford Woodlands, Berkshire

Looking for a stylish yet cosy escape that’s easy to reach from town? Here it is. Opened five years ago by charming young Jack Greenall, The Pheasant, near Hungerford, ticks all boxes. Though just moments from the M4, the old drovers’ inn stands alone and feels properly rural, with uninterrupted views across the Berkshire Downs. Inside, thanks to the spot-on taste of Jack and interior designer Flora Soames, it’s smart and sophisticated yet also intimate and warm in its racing green and red (the inn is much frequented by trainers and jockeys) with plenty of quiet, comfy corners despite the constant buzz in the recently extended restaurant and at the bar. Upstairs, there are 14 immaculate, spoiling, incredibly good value bedrooms, full of thoughtful extras (three are new this year, decorated by up-and-coming interior designer Isabella Worsley who also did the restaurant). As for chef Andy Watts’ 20-mile menu, it’s spot on too: Scotch eggs like you’ve never tasted before, chateaubriand of Wiltshire beef to share and fabulous puddings. The gorgeous private dining room, designed by Octavia Dickinson, is popular with shooting parties.

Doubles from £115

+44 (0)1488 648284; thepheasant-inn.co.uk

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