The Porch House, the England’s oldest inn 

Address: Digbeth Street, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1BN

Our cockapoo Winnie has a passion for old quirky pubs. The older the better. And the Porch House seems to be one of his favourite places. Dating back to the 10th century and situated in the heart of Stow-on-the-Wold, the Porch House is considered to be the oldest inn in England. Originally, it was a hospice for pilgrims, then an inn, possibly with a dog fighting pit, and finally a hotel with a pub. The Porch House is brimming with character, charisma and lots of original features like beamed ceilings, thick stone walls and even the witch’s marks above the 16th-century fireplace in the dining room!

Being a traditional British pub, the Porch House offers fresh and seasonal dishes. In the main menu, for instance: Oxford Gold Ale Battered Haddock with traditional chips, crushed peas and homemade tartare sauce (£16.95); Rump of Lamb with white & green asparagus, new potatoes, peas, and red wine jus (£25.95); or Peri Peri Marinated Half Boneless Chicken with apple & fennel coleslaw, aioli, sweet potato fries (£17.95).

So what makes the Porch House so special? Friendly staff, delicious food and cosy atmosphere peppered with history and a bit of magic.