One Elm, The

Two minutes walk from Shakespeare's Birthplace, The One Elm is a Victorian pub with a bustling bar, a pretty sheltered courtyard and a relaxed but high quality restaurant. The pub, in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon, is built on two floors with a bar and informal eating area at ground level. Upstairs there is a slight lift in the formality - but not too much - with a lot of lofty space and feeling of great warmth achieved by the décor. Actor-types from the nearby theatre have been known to lend a sense of the drama to proceedings.

Outside a secluded courtyard provides a haven in the summer for those who may wish to avoid the bustle of the riverside, and in winter are protected from the weather by an ingenious device. In or out The One Elm is designed with a diversity that offers the right environment for a cheerful party, or those with more romantic activity in mind.

The à la carte menu and a selection of great Sunday Roasts is also served noon - 4pm and 6.30 - 9.30 on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The all day menu is not available on Sundays.

A nice starting point is the deli board, drawn from Cheese, Charcuterie, Antipasti, Hot deli, Fish, Indian, Bread and fresh fruit or raw vegetables. This is the perfect way to try some of the fantastic ingredients that they take such pride in sourcing. To make life easier you can get them to make up a board, including a mixed one, at £8.75 a go.  This is a splendid way to chill out after a hard day before getting down to the meal.

On their menu, you will find the very best quality fresh ingredients - fantastic sausages; free range chicken and eggs; simple, pan-fried fish and seafood; 28 day dry-aged Aberdeenshire steaks - sourced from producers who take pride in their products and an ethical stance in their production.

The One Elm's menu always makes the most of seasonal ingredients - this ensures they avoid air-freighting and keeps us in touch with the cycle of the year - while combining the best of great British cooking and influences from around the world that are now part of our culture.

A well-chosen wine list, with interesting international connotations salutes the best efforts of the kitchen brigade, and service is cheerful, and brisk without being hurried. Where did creamy hot chocolate and marshmallows go? Or Irish coffee? Answer - The One Elm at Stratford upon Avon.

Further information, including their menus, is available on their comprehensive Website. Also consider trying out their sister pub, The Rose and Crown in Warwick.