The thought occurs that ministers of religion did not fare too badly in the 18th century, and this handsome house makes an ideal place to eat in the middle of a setting as delightful as this picture-book village, with the River Windrush flowing gently past a few yards from the front door.

The interior is every bit as handsome as the outside, with exposed stone, log fires in season, panelling and warm, welcoming colours. Meals are served in the restaurant, with light meals available in the bar. Cauliflower and Stilton soup, smoked salmon or a traditional prawn cocktail feature amongst the starters, and pan fried halibut, a grilled tuna steak, or pork medallions make appetising reading.

Traditional apple pie, blueberry cheesecake and a well presented cheese board all suggest the safe approach, but then this is what so many people appreciate, a point that sometimes appears to be lost on over-active chefs anxious to demonstrate their prowess at the stoves.

If for no other reason I find a modern wine list producing some names almost as ripe as their contents a heart warming prospect. One Tree Hill, Moondarra, Flat Rock, yes, they are often Australian, but they certainly conjour up visions, often of thirst which I suppose is the game.