Marquis at Alkham, The

Alkham Valley is without doubt a vacationer's paradise - with green rolling hills and narrow country lanes - here's old world England at its best and being featured on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty list is a fitting tribute. This picturesque location sets the scene for The Marquis at Alkham and what was once a village pub now enjoys the tangible benefits of a major refurbishment, transforming it into a contemporary restaurant and hotel with soft furnishings and an assorted collection of art.

The five individually designed, ensuite bedrooms adorned with beautiful fabrics and stylish furniture is decidedly trendy, in marked contrast to the rural setting. There are flat screen TVs, designer bathroom fixtures, pocket sprung mattresses dressed in luxury cotton and more for that stress-free getaway. Two large room suites have a sofa which morphs into a double bed, if required, and all rooms have splendid views across the valley as a delightful distraction.

Head Chef Charles Lakin's love for hearty rural cooking began during his tender years growing up in a farm in North Yorkshire. His former stint as an assistant chef at a Michelin-starred establishment helped him fuse modern style of cookery with old school favourites. Now at The Marquis, his kitchen team leave no stone unturned in an endeavour to create a menu which lays emphasis on local produce.

The à la carte could open with starters of carpaccio of venison with port marinated figs and local blue cheese dressing, and seared king scallops with a fennel puree and ginger velouté. Roast partridge with a kohlrabi fondant, creamed wild cabbage, chestnut and dry sherry jus, and aged fillet of beef accompanied by red onion marmalade, pommes Anna and a rich Madeira jus feature amongst attractive main courses.

Caramelised lemon tart with cassis sorbet and a dash of liquorice sauce, and coffee mousse with Hogweed ice cream, espresso granite and confit orange could please sweet lovers. The wine list goes the traditional way alongside bins from the New World and a welcome contribution from nearby Chapel Down.

The Marquis at Alkham will be happy to host your small, intimate wedding celebration and with the 13th century church of St. Anthony of Pamiers right next door, the setting is just perfect. Love outdoor pursuits? There's walking, horse riding, sailing, golfing and much more happening nearby and don't miss a game of cricket at the village's tiny cricket pitch claimed to be one of the smallest in the UK.

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