The Boxing Hare is a gourmet pub based five miles from Chipping Norton in scenic Cotswolds countryside, and its foodie credentials cannot be contested. Run by former London restauranteur Antony Griffith Harris with partner Stacey Charlotte and Head Chef, Nick Anderson (a former 3 AA rosette and twice Michelin star winner), it combines stylishly rustic interiors, great service, and the most incredible food. Inside, it feels buzzy, confident, and well-heeled; these guys know what they’re doing, and it shows. Decor inside is elegant (arched windows, wooden beams, fireplaces), and there’s also a large garden and heated terrace, with plush garden pods to dine in. And located in a National Trust-certified ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, there’s no shortage of gorgeous views.

The menu is pleasingly eclectic and, though pub classics like fish and chips are in evidence, they look a little different. The hake arrives daily from Cornwall, and what might otherwise read ‘chips and peas’ goes something like ‘crushed ratte potatoes, miso salsify, sprouting broccoli and chive beurre blanc’ instead. The beef comes from Paddock Farm, just six miles down the road, and your options on the steak front range from the flagship côte de boeuf at £88 down to bavette steak at £23 or a steak burger at £17.50. Just feast your eyes on the photos – no corners cut on quality here.

Sunday roasts are famous, and so is the clientele – let’s just say the Beckhams have been known to pop in. But it’s the friendly, familiar and fun service that ties it all together for us with the charisma of founders Stacey and Antony filters right down through the front of house staff. Top marks from Muddy.