Churchill Arms, The

There must be numerous 'heart-of-the-Cotswolds' villages all with picturesque reasons for the claim but villages like Paxford lend reality to the picture. There are views but they don't get in the way of a working village that has at its heart The Churchill Arms. This refuge from a rude wide world has been consistently applauded by customers and critics alike.

When it comes to the food, The Churchill Arms sources only fresh ingredients, mainly from local suppliers. Consider starting your meal with a chicken and mushroom pancake; smoked haddock rarebit with a soft boiled egg, or a soothing pea and ham soup. Among mains, breast of pheasant is served with port and green peppercorns while monkfish medallions are accompanied by sweet and sour butternut, and rump steak comes to the table with balsamic onions and blue cheese glaze.

For dessert there is triple chocolate torte with raspberry parfait, and sticky toffee pudding. There is a choice of beers and local real ales. The wine list is imaginative and well-priced; there is also a good selection by the glass.

Should you wish to stay, there are four fully equipped ensuite bedrooms.