The Pointer Hotel

Brill

Perching on the border of Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, Brill is the sort of village American tourists dream of. Quaint buildings with names like ‘Primrose Cottage’ surround a green across which tweed-wearing Labrador walkers call out greetings, while a 17th-century windmill offers sweeping views.

The Pointer takes its food seriously. Their own 240-acre farm, with 200 cattle and 30 breeding sows, supplies the majority of the menu. From the first bite of sourdough, thick-spread with veal-dripping butter, it becomes obvious why Michelin named it Pub of the Year 2018. Longhorn beef, hung for 35 days, is superb and served with chips crisped in more glorious dripping. The drinks are equally good. Bar Manager Christian Zeiss joined from Tom Kerridge’s The Hand and Flowers and his list is impeccably sourced. Try TOAD gin with strawberries and pink peppercorns.

The four bedrooms opened last year and their stylish, modern design reflects owners David and Fiona Howden’s ongoing love affair with Morocco. A smart palette of mushroom and cloudy grey is cheered by woven cushion covers and oversized rattan lamp shades. Doubles from £130.