Despite being a stone’s throw away from the city lights, The Hare and Hounds feels like it’s deep in the countryside. Not only are there amazing views across the Charlcombe valley, a large terrace and extensive gardens, but there are also walks directly from the pub (and back again).

Part of the St Austell Brewery (The Locksbrook Inn is in the same stable), the Hare and Hounds on Lansdown Hill to the north of Bath city centre, combines a laid back atmosphere in a building that dates back to the 17th century with really excellent seasonal, freshly cooked food, beautifully presented.

The place is spacious, with a large main bar/restaurant with high ceilings, huge lead light windows and an open fire, as well as slightly more private areas and a conservatory. Their new outside bar and pizza oven are fab.

It’s simply decorated with wooden church chairs, wooden pews, wooden floors and original art on the walls.

And the food? It’s inventive without being poncy, uses lots of local produce without being earnest,  portions are generous – and we thought it was delicious.

This is a pub to come to for breakfast (after a walk with the dog), with your laptop, for a lazy lunch with friends, family (there’s boules and a play area for kids) – and for dinner à deux (or à dix).