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A 15th century manor house setting in the heart of Constable County is one that may allure those who seek respite from the bustle of daily life and then more, the Fountain House restaurant that overlooks the pond and the gardens of Dedham Hall - a scene of idyllic tranquillity. The interior also has that beaming glow aided by candle lights and contrasting chair and tablecloths.

The cooking pivots to the European region with a modern approach, so right after a bowl of watercress soup or a plate of mixed smoked fish hors d'oeuvres, lamb kidneys with mustard sauce and slices of beef fillet with wild mushrooms and red wine could follow. Desserts are every fruit lover's dream with raspberry vacherin, peach Melba and lemon tart with vanilla ice cream.

Those like to have a brush with creativity can avail themselves of courses in art for residents and non-residents alike at Dedham Hall.

The Boathouse on Mill Lane has been a Dedham landmark for many years, well-known by tourists and locals as a place to go boating and having a fun day out with the family. Things have changed since Cameron and Claire Marshall took over in 2002, and the café is now transformed to a restaurant, the bar has been added and contemporary fittings and fixtures have made this a pleasant place to dine.

A river view, a versatile kitchen and an affable atmosphere, indeed there are very few things that can better such a setting in which to enjoy some delicious food that takes in everything from Chinese pork spring rolls with oyster dipping sauce, and grilled paupette of plaice, to 8oz rib eye steak and mango and passion fruit posset tart.

The Boathouse remains unswerving in its commitment to rowing and those who are seeking to paddle their way through a fun-filled time along the River Stour could hire one of their 26 clinker built boats.

An independent freehouse owned and run by Piers Baker since July 2003, The Sun Inn at High Street 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 all help to create the right mood. Settle in to reading newspapers or playing board games and in the summer enjoy the sun trapped terrace or large walled garden.

The food is modern British with strong Italian influences, reflected in a menu governed by the seasons embracing seared filet of Longhorn beef, farmyard roasted chicken and chocolate nemesis cake.

There are four real ales on tap from small brewers including the award winning Brewer's Gold from Crouch Vale alongside thirst quenching lagers and cider. Four guest rooms demonstrate a mix of old coaching inn meets small boutique hotel - crisp linen, neutral fabrics, character furniture, hand made natural bathroom products, great showers and continental breakfast with a difference. It's all here at The Sun Inn.