Helyar Arms

Travel back in time to the pretty village of East Coker and be enchanted by the decor, the food and the hospitality of the Helyar Arms. This 15th-Century inn has a beautiful interior, with an imposing beamed ceiling and a cosy fireplace. You won't find the match showing or fruit machines buzzing, but you will find a tranquil, friendly atmosphere and some delicious food.

Expect traditional British fare created with the care and attention befitting the quality of the ingredients, which are sourced locally where possible. Everything is homemade on the premises, including the soups, stocks, chutneys and even the ice cream. Immense pride is taken in ensuring only the highest-quality dishes are brought to your table. This is not just pub grub, and many favourites have been given a modern twist - you could start with mushrooms which, instead of breadcrumbed, come stuffed with chicken mousse and blue cheese, and oozing garlic butter. Follow these with a classic roast beef, then delight in its accompaniments of vanilla parsnip purée, fondant potato and delightfully unique blue cheese and walnut ice cream. To finish, the classic creme brûlée gets the same treatment with a bay leaf addition and Earl Grey ice cream. As well as these gourmet courses, you'll find a selection of light bites and sandwiches. Visit on a weekday lunchtime and enjoy a main course for £5, a fantastically reasonable way to sample some truly spectacular cuisine.