The New Inn, St Owen's Cross

When the new owners bought The New Inn 5 years ago, it was well in need of some TLC. And, as a pub close to their own hearts, they were more than ready to take on the challenge of giving this 16th-century coaching inn a new lease of life, with a winning combination of old-fashioned beams and plaster, chic rooms and fabulous food. As a result, it's a wonderfully warm and friendly place, with tasteful, stylish rooms and exquisite food, set in breathtaking Herefordshire countryside just outside Ross-on-Wye.

The pub has a lovely bar and restaurant, and although it still maintains a traditional look, it's very sophisticated and contemporary, with stripped-back light oak beams. The three AA Rosette restaurant serves first-rate food with a strong emphasis on local produce and seasonality. They have three very elegant bedrooms, rated 5* by the AA, which come with cosy throws and robes, ultra-comfy beds, WiFi and Smart TVs, tea and coffee facilities, and crisp, modern en-suite bathrooms. The rooms are all spacious but the largest one is almost a suite, with a wow-factor glass-walled bathroom and a free-standing bath – very romantic, and perfect for a weekend away. They also offer beautiful, contemporary self-catering accommodation less than a five-minute drive away at Teal Barn, which sleeps eight people.

The New Inn is above all a pub for those looking for something a little bit special, with over 50 wines by the glass and a great choice of ales, bespoke cocktails and an enormous list of gins – including plenty of local specialities! The food, too, is top-notch – think orchard pork, wild sea bass, blackberry souffle… – and as well as the contemporary yet rustic dining room, there's a lovely secret terrace to enjoy eating and drinking al fresco. They offer à la carte, a set lunch option, two fabulous tasting menus, and lighter dishes at the informal bar. In fact, they won 'Gastro Pub of the Year' at the 2024 Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards.

The pub also enjoys an excellent location, close to the bustling market town of Ross-on-Wye, with the beautiful Wye Valley and Symonds Yat, and the gorgeous small town of Ledbury not far away.