Bull & Butcher, The

Located in a prime piece of scenic England it comes as no surprise to hear that this inn, first licensed in 1617, is no stranger to film-makers, whose names have become absorbed into the menu, never mind the ethos of the place.

Only thirty minutes from London and with some well-heeled parts of what used to be known as the stockbroker belt inside a 7 mile radius, The Bull and Butcher rises to the occasion with enthusiasm, offering a menu which, whilst described as English certainly has inclinations beyond these shores.

From amongst the bar food starters expect to find smoked mackerel pate served with beetroot chutney and toast, or home smoked chicken and bacon salad tossed with honey mustard dressing.

Bar main courses include 'Midsomer burger' (see above), on a granary bap topped with Stilton, or, somewhat inevitably, 'Chitty Chitty Bangers and Mash' served with red onion marmalade and gravy.

In the restaurant a starter of smoked duck and strawberry comes with berry vinaigrette, or there could be lobster spaghetti with lemon and chilli oil. Mains are of the robust variety, with belly of pork done in a chorizo and cider sauce and served with Dijon and thyme mash as fairly typical, and a rib-eye steak and béarnaise sauce with full trimmings including 'monster chips'. Now what movie did they come from or am I missing something? Casino Royale perhaps?

The overall effect is assisted by well preserved antiquity, supported by open fires and lack of pub clutter.