Nestled deep in Salisbury Plain is this characterful English pub, with black and white exterior, thatched roof and Toby Jugs on the top shelf. But if you’re expecting pie and a pint fare, or beer-battered haddock and skinny fries, just turn right around and drive up the road to Pewsey, because this menu is more Michelin-worthy than home-cooked comfort. That’s not to say that it isn’t lovingly prepared in-house – it totally is, but as the chef-owners Guy and Brittany Manning previously worked in smart New York restaurants like Per Se (where they met), there’s an elegant, flavoursome look and feel to their food.

Opt for either the A La Carte or Tasting Menu (five or seven dainty sized portions of deliciousness) and take advantage of the waiting staff’s excellent knowledge of wine – they’ll suggest the perfect match for you. They can also mix up a mean cocktail and let you make your own if you stay for breakfast. Which brings Muddy onto the bedrooms – my, oh, my what a delightful place to sleep!

After you’ve finished your supper, trot up the road to The Troutbeck Guesthouse which belongs to The Red Lion. There’ll you’ll find five fab double bedrooms with blissfully comfy Somnus beds and terraces with river (Avon) views. Take your time to savour a morning coffee from your Nespresso machine here, while you wait for breakfast to be served back at the pub from 9am or work up an appetite on of the many local walks that start right from The Troutbeck.

Breakfast is of course, brilliant, with all the classics like a Full English and – as with all the food here – made with as many locally-sourced or home-grown ingredients as possible. Their garden has a vegetable and flower patch plus bee hives at the back and the jam and eggs are often provided by the local shepherd. Once you’re fully fed for the day, head out to Stonehenge, Salisbury, Avebury – there’s a really comprehensive guidebook written by owner Brittany in the rooms. Oh and dogs are very welcome too. Tempted? Book now!