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This 18th century hotel with more recent additions is located on the edge of the Charnwood Forest between Leicester and Loughborough and has recently acquired new owners who have brought a fresh approach to the place. A priority has been the creation of the Buddon restaurant, named after a local stretch of woodland renowned for its hunting qualities.

A pressed terrine of local wild duck could reasonably be expected to hold that extra flavour and the apple and pear compote makes a good accompaniment: for those looking for something nearer the sea the smoked haddock and prawn salad or the roast fillets of red mullet with a herb crust make good reading. Not normally one for chicken unless I know its history I might nonetheless be moved to try the panfried breast of chicken filled with a wild mushroom and smoked bacon mousse astride a roasted red pepper coulis or more possibly the roast pheasant, also panfried, on a casserole of its leg. Desserts kick off with a lime custard pie with star fruit, or carambola to give everyone their due, and an interesting choice of Granny Smith apple fritters served with an apple cider soup.

The coffee comes with dainty little petit fours. The wine list is not vast but contains sufficient to cover all but the most demanding, starting with bottles at £11.

Buried deep in huntin' country it is not surprising that this is a favourite haunt of the fraternity, and the menu reflects their tastes. The Shires restaurant is intimate and straight out of the country house. The Conservatory is a bit more relaxed. At one end of the spectrum we might have noisettes of lamb, cooked on a skillet, served with mint puree and a redcurrant and rosemary sauce. For the more adventurous medallions of ostrich could catch the eye, run to earth with roast beetroot in balsamic and red onion compote finished with red wine sauce. Prices are friendly. The wine list carries some interesting numbers and house wine is £12.95.

On the edge of the village is The Manor House at Quorn, a refurbished gastropub that has raised the achievement bar higher for a worthwhile culinary experience in the area. Expect to see families enjoying a late lunch with children running about in the large garden, or people relaxing on the patio or the decked area, dining al fresco. Private meeting rooms on the first floor are for those business meetings, while the spacious and airy pub is just right if you want to simply unwind after a long day.

Dedication to improving the local economy is evident as they use only suppliers nearby for all their requirements. The menu changes every month with daily specials adding considerable variety. The food is distinctly British with customary favourites such as homemade beef and Guinness Pie, Tornados fillet steak and chilled poached salmon. A handmade chocolate served with coffee is a fitting way to end your meal.