Tucked between Calne and Chippenham, The Dumb Post Inn is more than a picture-perfect village pub (though let’s be honest, the 18th-century stone building is quite a charmer); this gastro-gem is also home to excellent dishes and has a shelf-load of awards to prove it, including a shiny AA Rosette.

Run by husband-and-wife duo Richard and Beth Board since 2019, The Dumb Post Inn’s menu boasts a selection of classic pub grub dishes, including a delicious Sunday roast with all the trimmings and homemade Yorkshire puddings. Pop in any day for a purse-pleasing two-course set lunch for just £24, or throw in a third course for an extra fiver. It’s all freshly whipped up using locally sourced veggies and meats; the couple works with a host of quality indie producers, plus own a family farm where they source lamb and beef. If you’re big on farm-to-fork dining and low-food-mile meals, this is the place for you.

Drinks-wise, choose from a variety of whites, reds, rosés, and sparkling wines from Spain, France, Italy and South Africa – try as you may, there’s simply no way to sip through the whole list. Plus, the dessert menu is to die for, with sweet seasonal crumbles, sticky toffee pudding, and the pub’s staple chocolate brownie with chocolate soil and peanut butter ice cream (hey, don’t knock it til you try it).

Naturally, this cosy pub makes a unique events venue. Small parties of up to 25 people can take place in the Terrace Room (a country house style space that overlooks the patio and gardens). For bigger bashes of up to 60, hire out the Main Restaurant or take your party alfresco to the Patio and Gardens.

If you’re prone to having a quick post-lunch kip, you’ll have to sit tight as accommodation will be available in the near future.