Bolthole Gem In The Vale of the White Horse

“Every now and then go away, have a little relaxation, for when you come back to your work your judgement will be surer.” Wise words from Renaissance artist Leonardo Da Vinci more than 600 years ago. But be you legendary artist or simply modern woman trying to catch a break now and then, the message is the same. Take some time out and you’ll return to your task with added energy, intelligence and enthusiasm.

Deadlines, demanding clients and over-zealous employers can leave us feeling drained and exhausted, so what better way to perk up than a weekend in the country? And where better to do this, dear Belles, than at The Greyhound Inn, in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Letcombe Regis?

A little over an hour’s drive from London, Letcombe Regis is found at the base of the Berkshire Downs, resting on Letcombe Brook just a couple of miles from the market town of Wantage. But despite its proximity to bustling Wantage, and a little further the city of dreaming spires Oxford, Letcombe Regis remains unspoilt by the chaos of modern life. There’s a thatched village shop, a village hall and, at the heart of the community, The Greyhound Inn.

An 18th Century free house lovingly refurbished into a stylish restaurant with rooms, The Greyhound Inn offers everything for the local community from hearty breakfasts to lazy brunches, quiz night challenges to family gatherings. But it’s not just Letcombe locals to benefit from what’s on offer, the Inn has a wealth of appeal for tourists and travelling professionals alike.

Stay in one of the eight lovingly restored bedrooms, three of which are dog friendly, and enjoy luxurious interiors, quality cosmetics and all you need for a good night’s sleep from fresh linen bedding to a super king size bed.

Award-winning chef Phil Currie and his team have a reputation for cooking up delicious and imaginative dishes. Highly recommended are the twice baked Leonard Stanley Gloucestershire cheddar soufflé with rarebit onions and homemade kale salsa verde, and the Salt Marsh lamb neck rack with potato and bacon terrine, shallot puree, rainbow chard and cockles cider sauce. Both come elegantly presented and incredible on the palette. Other favourites include the crayfish, avocado and pea salad, and the homemade beetroot and mushroom croquettes with oat, sage and hazelnut crust, a sweet potato puree and tangy pickled mushrooms, and drizzled with a Szechuan oil. The innovative approach to flavours is exciting, and the appearance of the dishes is delightful.   Children, vegetarians, gluten frees and coeliacs are all catered for, and ordering off menu is possible to suit pretty much any

diet, an important factor when offering first class fayre in this day and age.

All of the food is homemade and freshly cooked, and based on great, fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Alongside great pub classics are dishes inspired by the seasons and regularly changing specials. A feast for all the senses, plates are presented as works of art ready to rival any Michelin recommended establishment.

Service at The Greyhound Inn has the emphasis on personal. Expect engagement and smiles. Host Lidia Dhorne greets customers as they enter, and her team take to the floor in an attentive manner to check on the wellbeing of guests. The building is protected by its history from too much renovation inside, so a long bar and restaurant area can mean you’re sat close to a neighbouring table, but there are nooks and crannies off the main floor for those seeking a little more privacy.

Belle enjoyed a Romantic Break deal at The Greyhound Inn which includes a three course evening meal and full English breakfast as well as a night’s stay in a suite. A bottle of sparkling wine was waiting in the room, neighboured by jars of juicy olives, and homemade shortbread biscuits. It’s the little touches that go a long way when it comes to finding a good quality place to stay, and these additions to what was expected, as well as the provision of local walking maps, a library shelf of books, and notes on the local area, stood out continually throughout our stay.

• THE GREYHOUND INN, Main Street, Letcombe Regis, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 9JL. For more information on packages, gift vouchers and special events, see www.thegreyhoundletcombe.co.uk.