The Granville @ Barford

Set in the heart of Shakespeare Country, The Granville @ Barford was given a new lease of life four years ago thanks to owner Val Kersey - and its transformation provides an object lesson in how to create a great dining pub. Friendly, comfortable and stylish, this pub has won numerous accolades and naturally exudes the kind of warm, intimate atmosphere that is coveted by many and not easy to manufacture.

The team here is committed to serving the very best home-cooked dishes prepared using fresh, quality produce delivered daily by local suppliers. Diners can opt to eat in the lively bar, the elegant main restaurant or - weather permitting - alfresco in the spacious patio garden. During our visit, the waiter recommended the fresh fish pie topped with creamed potato and melted Cheddar cheese for my partner, who was enthralled by this hearty dish. I was equally enraptured with my trio of pork with creamed potato, spinach, pancetta, crackling and apple sauce - a real treat, especially when accompanied by a glass of chilled Champagne.

Hosting special events every month, from steak and wine evenings and seafood festivals to comedy nights and free rock gigs, there's always something to excite during an evening at The Granville. Otherwise, turn up at lunchtime for a doorstop sandwich to die for.