The Crown

Nestling in the heart of rural Dorset is The Crown at Winterborne Stickland. On entering this old country inn, you will discover a warm and friendly atmosphere. The large open fireplace with its woodburner is poised ready for those cold winter days; but when the weather is fine, you simply must visit the lovely beer garden at the rear of the pub.

Head chef Jack prides himself on using fresh seasonal local produce whenever possible, boasting that 'nothing gets microwaved here'. As everything is cooked from scratch you may have to wait a little while - but this is no hardship when there is such a fantastic offering of real ales and wines available for you to sip while you build up an appetite for the deliciousness to come. Jack even bakes his own bread, which is delicious when spread with butter or dipped in balsamic vinegar and olive oil. You can choose from the substantial à la carte menu, which offers local meats and fish as well as vegetarian options, or you could try one of the daily specials displayed near the bar - both options offer great value for money. We tried the 10oz local rump steak with all the trimmings from the à la carte menu and the slow-roasted belly pork with mustard mash and braised red cabbage from the daily specials board. Both were cooked to mouth-watering perfection. The pudding menu includes some of the old favourites, but we tried two of Jack's own inventions: Pimms jelly with Chantilly cream and a white chocolate pot with raspberry coulis - sensational.

So, for delicious, value-for-money food, excellent service and a warm welcome, look no further than The Crown. I've been longing for Jack's Pimms jelly since I visited, and plan to ask him for the recipe next time I dine there - which, if I have my way, won't be too far in the future.