The Meon Valley is apparently one of the best places to live in the whole UK, and I can bet that’s because they’ve got some amazing little pubs and inns to check out. Case in point, The Thomas Lord at West Meon – named after the man who founded Lord’s cricket ground – a countryside pub, done well.

Recently Michelin recommended, the menu here is always changing and is definitely worth making the (very pleasant) journey for. Hampshire’s local produce plays a heavy part in this menu, plus some bits from nearby Sussex as well. The food includes people-pleasers such as ale battered hake with hand-cut chips, along with mouth-watering fried buffalo chicken wings with stilton cheese dipping sauce.

The old pub building has been beautifully restored, maximising on its historic features, to create a warm cosy pub for all visitors. Either locate yourself by the roaring fire or head to have a good giggle at ferrets playing cricket above the bar, this is a place to get excellent food, local tipples and enjoy the best bits of Hampshire.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Then you’re in luck, as the rooms here are pretty special. With five luxury wood cabins, overlooking some of the prettiest parts of the Meon Valley, complete with king-sized beds and private terraces, this is a perfect place for a relaxing break.

And if you fancy splitting your countryside break with a few bits of culture and history, you’re a mere 10 miles from Wolvesey Castle and Winchester city centre, less than 15 miles from Gunwharf Quays shopping centre and just a two-hour drive from London.