Coleford, British, Modern Restaurant Guide

“Hidden in the Wye valley”, Chris and Kirsty Harrod’s “charming” restaurant with rooms is often hailed as “the Welsh version of Noma” – “lots of foraging and sustainability is in evidence and Chris will spend time talking you through ingredients and cooking methods”. Most diners “really love the ethos of using local seasonal produce to produce such delicious food” and “the absence of silly combinations to deliver a seriously well put-together menu, with reasonable wine pairings”. Its ratings slipped a fraction this year, as it struck the wrong note on the odd occasion. The tenor of most reports though? – “unique and certainly worth seeking out”. Top Tip – lovely terrace for a summer’s day.

“We first went 50 years ago… it was wonderful then and absolutely amazing now!” – this luxurious property (built in the 1520s and part of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s honeymoon itinerary) is “so quintessentially English in its historic ambience” (“it was fun watching overseas tourists being overawed with their surroundings!”). “A recent refurbishment of the Hotel, elevation to Relais & Chateaux membership and appointment of Carl Cleghorn as Executive Chef, have put Thornbury Castle firmly back on the culinary map. The menu and standard of cooking, particularly in the desserts, coupled with friendly and welcoming staff are now a match for the quite stunning rooms and grounds of the Castle itself”.

Josh & Hannah Byrne’s “remote country pub” punches way above its weight with a “small, exceptional menu that changes every day” of “innovative cuisine”, featuring “bold, delicious flavours” and “locally sourced ingredients, perfectly cooked”. Top Menu Tip – “the deep-fried oysters are a gem”… “even if you’re ambivalent about oysters!”