The Swan Inn, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire

Set on a quiet road in the tiny village of Ascott-under-Wychwood, this lovely pub is a secluded getaway in the Cotswold countryside. You've got walks along the lovely Evenlode river on the doorstep, as well as to other villages like Shipton under Wychwood or Kingham, which both have excellent pubs. Daylesford Organic is a 20-minute drive from The Swan, so bring your wallet and prepare to spend at this deeply tempting farm shop.

By car: around 1 hour 20 minutes from Bristol, 2 hours from London and 3 hours from Manchester. Free parking available.

By train: there are direct trains to Kingham from Oxford (25 minutes) and London Paddington (1 hour 30 minutes). The hotel is a 10-minute drive. Book trains to Kingham.

The Swan seamlessly blends country pub vibes with contemporary décor thanks to its wooden beams, wingback armchairs by the fire and impressive glass wine store. Everything is well thought out here, from the beautiful ceramic crockery to the fresh flowers on the bar, and there's a relaxed but upscale vibe throughout.

This pub with rooms gets full marks for its service - the waiting staff at the restaurant were exceptional, offering both food and wine recommendations for each course, and even pairing a digestif with our dessert. As it's a small pub, there are few facilities onsite, but little is needed in a place like this.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Pet-friendly
• Family-friendly
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Bedrooms are boldly decorated, with patterned wallpapers and teal or emerald paint, and each room has its own quirky design. You can tell they're well used, as some of the décor in our room was a little tired, but overall these bedrooms are a lovely haven and the perfect place to relax after a long hike.

Room types: Double Room, Family Room

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes, hairdryer, tea and coffee facilities, TV, radio, free Wi-Fi

The Swan Inn does food incredibly well. Not only is there a seasonally changing menu, but outside in the garden is an outdoor kitchen where you can get freshly made pizzas in summer. The wine list is extensive and staff can recommend perfect pairing options. Do not miss a meal here.

The Swan: cosy country inn, serving pub classics and sharing feasts. Seasonal ingredients. Open daily, 8am-11pm.