Comfortable sofas, bare wooden tables, intimate alcoves and open crackling fire make the George and Dragon an inviting place to unwind while the photographs and paintings bring to mind the neighbouring Lowther Estate's heritage.

Restaurants may be proud of their local sourcing credentials but here it is more than just that; owner Charles Lowther delights in demonstrating his family estate's produce in a monthly changing menu, supplemented by a daily specials board. So there might be a twice baked cheese soufflé; roasted pheasant breast with braised cabbage, fondant potato and cider cream, or organic chicken and chestnut linguini. Finish with a cheeseboard selection accompanied by a glass of d'Arenburg The Vintage Fortified Chiraz from Australia.

The specials menu may feature wild boar carpaccio with pear and truffle oil; mussels in white wine; saddle of lamb with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots, and baked vanilla cheesecake.