The eight centuries old Royal Oak, set in the heart of a beautiful valley in Lostwithiel, is one place you should certainly consider visiting when in Cornwall. Located in the centre of the local town, this pub and restaurant has all the charm of an old building, and is close to the main line rail station.

Royal Oak, despite its age, maintains everything in spick and span condition, creating an enjoyable ambiance in which to dine on a variety of traditional Cornish meals, prepared and cooked freshly using the best of local produce. Apart from a lounge bar, real ales, beers, wines and spirits are served at its warm and friendly, flagstone floored, public bar, which is separate from the restaurant.

With beautiful surroundings and good quality service, this 13th century inn is also a comfortable place to stay. Its six furnished and decorated rooms are available throughout the year.

Pan fried scallops with white wine and garlic sauce and mushrooms on toast with grilled bacon and goat's cheese, are fine choices to start a meal. Moving to the main course, fish lovers can treat themselves to hot smoked salmon with baby spinach and cucumber salad, whole roasted sea bass or deep fried haddock with hand cut chips, pea puree and tartare sauce.

There is roasted rump of lamb and the good old fillet steak, with mushrooms, onion rings and slow baked tomatoes for those who wish to stay traditional just like the Royal Oak itself. The restaurant is renowned for its special dishes, which should provide additional treats for diners to sample.