Next time you find yourself on the M4 with some time to spare or equilibrium to regain, head off at Junction 7 for Dorney village and the civilised delights of The Palmer Arms. This charming gastropub has changed many hands over the years, but with its current owners it has bloomed into the pride of the village. Refurbishment has been carried out keeping in mind a contemporary outlook and the newly added children's play area means that families will love heading out there, especially on weekends.

A light lunch is offered with hot or cold sandwiches and salads but it is the à la carte that takes the applause for its simplicity and avid usage of local produce and ingredients. Amongst the starters, the home cured gravadlax with brown bread and butter stands out while later on, the duck breast in a port and fig sauce with dauphinoise potatoes makes an excellent main course. Round off with hot fudge brownie; the well thought through wine list at Palmer Arms offers some superb global choices.