A country inn with a warm, modern feel, The Duke on The Test dates all the way back to 1583, when the first inn opened on the site. Sitting where the main roads from Stockbridge to Salisbury converged and crossed the River Test, it was no doubt a lively spot at the heart of a community of tanners and brewers.

In 2022, The Duke on the Test reopened after a major sympathetic rebuild, with 12 new ensuite bedrooms. A well-deserved Five-Star rating from Visit England quickly followed, noting the quality of food and the excellent presentation.

Dog-friendly in the bar with a pretty river walk just a few yards from the car park and major attractions like Mottisfont, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Romsey Abbey all very close by, there certainly is lots to please here.

Inside, modern country-chic blends with historic oak beams and an inglenook fireplace, with cosy corners and squishy leather sofas.

On the menu are home-cooked gastropub dishes are made using local meats and fish with hearty roasts on Sunday – not missing out the veggies and vegans – all served up with local real ales and a great choice of wines and spirits.

Sunday lunch, dinner with friends or sneaky country getaway, a visit to The Duke on the Test has plenty to recommend it.