You'll find daily fresh fish specials and classic English fare on the à la carte menu. Having negotiated the beautiful low beams, you can huddle round an open log fire, appreciate a glass of smooth red from the 70-strong international list, and mull over the important decision of what to order.

The slow-roasted half shoulder of lamb with rosemary mash and redcurrant jus, at just £14.95, was outstanding and beautifully presented. For something with a more eclectic vibe, the corn-fed chicken supreme, with pancetta, chestnut mushrooms and new potatoes, comes highly recommended.

By sourcing fresh produce locally, chef Matthew Brown ensures that all meals leaving his kitchen are of the highest possible quality and flavour. Everything is made to order and tastes even better due to the lovely traditional surroundings. If you have something other than fine food to celebrate, there is a private function room available for parties and business functions.

We delved into a large helping of sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce, and plunged spoons into a chilled citrus tart served with vodka syrup. Both desserts, whilst tasting very naughty, were also, at £4.50 each, great value for money.

Service here is friendly, efficient and unobtrusive, allowing you to enjoy your afternoon or evening without imposition. The presence of a strong following of local devotees is a sure sign of the quality you can expect at The Thatched Tavern.