Set in deep Gloucestershire countryside at the end of a leafy lane alongside the Thames and Severn Canal, the Tunnel is a paradise for those who like their eating, drinking and socialising to be done in traditional surroundings amidst people with whom one feels instant rapport, the country sporting set with more than a smattering of students from the nearby Royal Agricultural College.

Roaring log fires in winter, a spacious garden in summer, and nicely louche rooms lined with well strewn, as well as well chosen, memorabilia, plenty of room for the children, vast squashy and ever so slightly scruffy sofas, and an overall spirit of enjoyment abounding, this is The Tunnel Inn. Dogs are also welcome.

On the bar are pumps offering some of the finest real ales to be found in Britain, amongst them Hook Golden and Festival. Beneath in the cellars lurks a comely selection of wines hailing from many different regions, with something to suit every dish and palate.

A seasonally driven menu offers only home cooked food with fresh, and where possible, local ingredients involved. In winter expect to find game and hot crusty pies, in summer delightful salads and lighter dishes prevail. If it is robust, bucolic and full of good flavours the chances are it will feature here sooner or later.

Booking is advised if you want to use the dining room, but the tables in the bar are fun, possibly because you can't book them and al fresco rules. We took a family party of fourteen there recently and had one of the best Sunday lunchtimes of our lives.