The Brace of Pheasants, Dorchester

A thatched village pub which now does B&B, previously a row of farmworkers' cottages, with 15th Century roots. It is in a remote rural location, down a country lane, and there is a small car park just past it. Blink, and you will miss it. The pub sign is unusual – two stuffed pheasants in a glass case. Inside, there is a bar with a tartan carpet, an inactive inglenook and various structural timbers on display, while down a few steps is a dining room similarly rustic. WiFi is available, and dogs are allowed. The staff were very hospitable, very welcoming and although busy, made time to talk to customers. Food is freshly cooked to a very high standard from mainly local ingredients, and the menu is proper restaurant food, apart from the 'burgers', which seem a bit out of place here. I was tempted by a venison burger, though, but decided it was too deer. Three ales on gravity behind the bar – Ringwood Best, Cottage Brewing Co's Pacific and Flack's Double Drop. All three were in perfect condition. Absolutely wonderful.

Official site of the Brace of Pheasants, includes menu and real ale list - www.braceofpheasants.co.uk

Official site of the Brace of Pheasants, includes menu and real ale list - www.braceofpheasants.co.uk