The Brocket Arms

The Brocket Arms sits discreetly on a country lane in Ayot St Lawrence and is a picturesque building, dating back to the 14th Century, with low ceilings and oak beams. As well as fine cuisine, the pub offers luxurious accommodation. There are six well-appointed bedrooms, unifying modern home comforts with the pub's historical aesthetics. New owner Bhup has retained and enhanced everything winning about The Brocket Arms, including its lively traditional-pub atmosphere and spectacular food. Choose from the new classic pub food menu, which features all your comforting favourites, or enjoy more contemporary British cuisine in the superb restaurant, as we did.

It was very difficult to choose between the dishes, as they all sounded so appealing. My guest ordered the seared sea scallops with artichoke purée, which were plump, soft and flavoursome. My tempura-battered squid was light and fluffy, and, as such, very difficult to share. For the main course my companion opted for the sea bream with potato purée, mushrooms and a walnut pesto - inspired accompaniments that complemented the light fish perfectly. My choice was the duck breast with fat chips and a fried duck egg. The duck was like velvet, incredibly tender and succulent. The addition of the egg and square-cut chips transformed the dish into a hearty meal - it was just the ticket for me. Incredibly, you can order two courses at The Brocket Arms for £19.95, or three for £24.95. This place is surely one of Hertfordshire's true hidden gems.