The Seven Stars is a very special little pub in the Oxfordshire village of Marsh Baldon – it’s super friendly, easy going, dog friendly and has a cracking new tapas menu if you’re not in the mood for the pub classics.

The head chef, Patrick, is all about seasonal, local produce with current menu highlights including Braised Pig Cheeks, Celeriac Puree and Rhubarb Jam; Salt & Pepper Squid and Chilli & Lime Aioli and Cajun Sweetcorn Ribs. This is the sort of contemporary food combos you might expect in Oxford, but from the bucolic surrounds of a gorgeous little village pub – and there’s plenty for veggies and vegans too.

Pub classics include fish and chips, burger and steak, if you’re not one for sharing…

The pub is just outside Oxford so great if you want a break from the bustle or to combine with a walk – it’s dog friendly – and the Harcourt Arboretum is just down the road.

For groups of 8 or more there’s the appropriately epic feasting menu (it’s all sharing platters so no pre-orders needed – hurrah!) and you can book the whole of the adjoining barn if you want your own space.