I live in the next village along the Little Stour river, and my favourite treat is to walk the dog across the stream, past the water mill, stopping to pick some wild horseradish for the [pub’s] chef, before settling down for a pint and a scotch egg.

Situated just ten minutes outside of the historic City of Canterbury, the Duke William is a contemporary and stylish pub. With a roaring fire during the winter months, the idyllic garden is full of hanging baskets, potted plants, an olive tree and herb boxes during the summer.

There are few pubs more cosy than the Duke William, especially as the nights draw in. Fur blankets are provided on wooden benches that surround a blazing log fire. Candles flicker on tables fashioned from old barrels. Whether it’s brunch, lunch or afternoon tea, the Duke William offers it all. Choose from potted shrimps on toast to eggs Florentine.

The wood-burning fire, low timber ceilings and dimmed lighting ensure a cosy atmosphere. We had celeriac and apple soup, salmon fish cakes and a steak, all of which were delicious… It is perfect for a relaxing break.

Enjoy a Tom Collins cocktail at the back of the Duke William in the peaceful Kent village of Ickham - they’re a popular order and perfect for a sunny summer’s day. The bar also serves guest real ales, ciders and lagers. The Duke has four small, snazzy rooms… a ten-minute drive to Canterbury.

… all [rooms] have vintage-inspired furniture, colour-pop cushions and a set of earplugs, if full-belly lethargy sets in before closing time. And it might well, as the budget leaves plenty of room to devour the posh pub grub served downstairs…

Our guide recognises the best of the best, as the British pub food scene continues to get stronger…