Sun Inn, The

An independent freehouse owned and run by Piers Baker since July 2003, The Sun Inn is the perfect haven where a quiet pint goes hand in hand with robust food and wine. Oak floorboards, a rare oak bar top, exposed beams, original artwork, character furniture and four open fires. Settle in reading newspapers or playing board games and in the summer enjoy the sun trapped terrace or large walled garden.

Modern British food with strong Mediterranean influences, the menu is governed by the seasons. Locally sourced produce from individual fruit and vegetable growers, a farmer who naturally rears rare breed meat, wild boar from nearby Beccles, Mersea fish from day boats and herbs from the garden.

Four real ales on tap from small brewers including the award winning Brewer's Gold from Crouch Vale alongside thirst quenching lagers and cider. Recently added is Oyster Ale from Whitstable Brewery in Kent. Botanically brewed Ginger beer and Victorian lemonade, proper juice and naturally, with food, comes wine - over 50 bottles with 20 available by the glass.

Four guest rooms, a mix of old coaching inn meets small boutique hotel - enormous, lavish beds, crisp linen, neutral fabrics, character furniture, hand made natural bathroom products, great showers and continental breakfast with a difference. In 2006 a new guest room was added, with a super-King size oak bed. Each room has views of the village and church and you will find lots of small surprises throughout your stay. Checkout whenever you like - as long as there are not incoming guests and if you want something extra special to do over your stay, they can help you arrange it.

Now open in the pub's archway annex, Victoria's Plums - fresh local fruit and vegetables, seasonal and some organic too. Run by Piers's wife Victoria, it is open on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It is well worth arranging to receive their excellent Newsletter, which is informative without being invasive.

No wonder the place is so popular.