The spectacular views alone make this Wirral gem worthy of a visit. But Sheldrakes Restaurant located on the banks of the River Dee in Lower Heswall, doesn't just rely on visual appeal to draw in the crowd, although the Dee estuary against a backcloth of the Welsh mountains does afford some magnificent sights. This warm and cosy retreat is a true find, with its delightful outdoor seating and charming combination of rustic and contemporary chic inside, perfect for an intimate dinner, long lunches with friends or just a simple meal.

Menus display a Mediterranean influence which pleasantly touches upon the atmosphere as well, so expect starters of lightly fried salmon and haddock fillets with king prawns and aioli dip, a main course of roasted loin of pork served with char grilled pineapple, honey roasted peppers and sweet and sour sauce. The dessert of fig tart tatin served with pistachio ice cream strikes the right notes and the wine list at Sheldrakes is from Tanners, the renowned Shrewsbury wine merchants, featuring individually sourced wines from across the globe.