The Falkland Arms Hotel, August 1999

Regarded by many as an absolute gem and standards have been maintained since the pub was taken over by Wadworths. The thatched building dates back to the 16th-century and is situated in a beautifully preserved village. The pub is about 5 miles east of Chipping Norton and is just off the B4022. It was named after former nearby resident Viscount Falkland who was secretary to Charles I.

The interior has flagstone floors, high-backed settles, an inglenook fireplace, stone-mullioned lattice windows and oil lamps which are unfortunately powered by electricity. They've a good range of malt whiskies and a couple of dozen different country wines. Beerwise they've an impressive range on offer. Local beers such as Donnington BB and Hook Norton Best Bitter are often available, with up to 5 guests on at any one time. Last time I visited they had Red Shoot Forest Gold on (abv 3.8%). It's brewed by a tiny micro-brewery which opened in 1998 in Dorset.

They serve award-winning food in the non-smoking dining room but note that evening meals are only served daily between 7 and 8pm though not on Sundays. At lunchtime they've a range of tasty sandwiches and baguettes and delicious dishes such as lamb and rosemary casserole during the evening.