The Pheasant Inn, Higher Burwardsley, Cheshire

Roughly midway between Chester and Nantwich, on the slopes of the Peckforton Hills, the Pheasant has a peaceful rural setting and a belter of a view. Once you leave the A roads, the narrow country lanes that lead here might be off-putting for nervous drivers, but it's only for a few miles. The picturesque Sandstone Trail passes close by, and local attractions include Beeston Castle, The Ice Cream Farm and BeWILDerwood Cheshire.

By car: The inn is 4 hours from London and 1 hour from Manchester. Free parking.

By train: Chester is the closest station, 25 minutes' drive away. Crewe Station has direct links to London and is a 40-minute taxi ride away. Book trains to Chester.

There's plenty of traditional, cosy character in the main inn, with beamed ceilings, big open fireplaces, and assorted nooks and crannies to hide away in. Walls are adorned with animal prints and old photos, oriental carpets top the parquet floors, and Toby jugs line the mantelpiece, while copper filament lamps add a touch of steampunk cool.

It's a traditional rural inn so don't expect the facilities of an urban five-star. They do produce a leaflet of local walks, though, with three routes you can follow right from the front door - and no one bats an eyelid if you walk in wearing muddy boots. Service is erratic but usually friendly.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Garden
• Dog-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The 12 bedrooms are split between the inn and a couple of outbuildings. Décor is contemporary, combining rustic or retro elements (a bare stone wall, say, or cast iron radiator) with the odd touch of modern bling (big silver lamps, a velvet throw). Bathrooms are larger in the inn rooms; smaller but smarter in the newer barn rooms.

Room types: Standard, Barn, Executive, Superior rooms

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower, free toiletries, HD TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi,

The restaurant holds an AA rosette, and the menu focuses on pub classics such as fish and chips, chargrilled meats and steak and ale pie - with updates to suit contemporary tastes. Burger choices include halloumi and falafel versions, and there are vegan and gluten-free options for each course.

The Pheasant Inn: modern British and European-inspired dishes, seasonal ingredients, local produce, sandwiches, burgers. Open for lunch and dinner from 12pm. Mains from £10.50.