The Wheatsheaf Combe Hay, Bath

With a generous front garden, The Wheatsheaf sits at the heart of bucolic Combe Hay. Tucked into a quiet, wooded valley, it is nonetheless a just short drive into Bath and close to the park and ride. There are gentle walks to nearby villages to discover as well as the historic sights of Bath. Circular walks to the villages of Midford or Wellow are a favourite. In Bath, the Roman Baths, Assembly Rooms and Thermae Spa are must-sees.

By car: The Wheatsheaf is 2 hours 10 mins from Birmingham, 2 hours 35 mins from London and 3 hours 40 mins from Manchester. There is free parking at the pub.

By train: London Paddington to Bath Spa takes 1 hour 20 mins. The pub is a 15-minute taxi ride from the station. Book trains to Bath Spa.

This is somewhere where it is acceptable to leave your muddy boots at the door and warm by the fire, while the kitchen prepares a first-class meal. As with many stylish rural pubs, the interiors are painted in atmospheric dark colours. The bedrooms have a contemporary cottage feel.

The inn has been expertly run by the same family for over a decade and the small team of staff are incredibly friendly. Everything you need should be in rooms already but from breakfast onwards, there is someone to speak to if not. There is plenty of parking on site.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Beer garden
• Pet-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

There are three rooms in a converted stone shed and one in a weatherboard 'Wendy House'. Decorative touches include pastel-coloured wood panelling and cowhide rugs. Shed rooms have garden chairs outside, while the Wendy House looks onto the grass where the dogs roam. The modern bathrooms are elongated, with roomy walk-in showers.

Room types: Shed Room, The Wendy House, Luxury Tents

Key amenities: ensuite shower room with The White Company toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, tea and coffee facilities, TV, free Wi-Fi

With a pleasant atmosphere inside and out, the inn makes a tempting detour for anyone who enjoys serious food with an emphasis on seasonality and provenance. The menu blends modern British cooking with gastropub favourites that are prepared with real flair. Much is made in-house, including the delectable bread and ice cream.

The Wheatsheaf: modern British cuisine, kitchen garden, steaks, pub classics. Open Tues-Sat for lunch and dinner, and Sunday lunchtime. Mains from £12.