The Dog at Wingham, Wingham, Kent

Wingham sits between two tributaries of the Wingham river in eastern Kent. Dotted with 13th-century buildings, the sleepy village is almost equidistant from Canterbury and Sandwich, with each just under a 15-minute drive away, making it a great spot from which to explore both the city and seaside. Wingham Wildlife Park is two minutes' drive away and Deal, with its antique shops and galleries, is a 20-minute drive.

By car: Just off the A2/A28, the hotel is 25 minutes from Dover, 45 minutes from Maidstone, and two hours from London. Free parking is available at the hotel.

By train: Adisham train station is a five-minute taxi ride from the hotel and serviced by Southeastern trains from Dover Priory (20 minutes) and London Victoria (1hr 40 mins). Book trains to Adisham.

The Kentish family who own the Dog, the Bridgens, have retained as much of its character and pub essence as possible. The original timber beams and inglenook fireplaces remain in the bar, towering king posts hold up the vaulted ceiling in the bedroom above it, and wonky floors, narrow staircases and exposed brick walls ensure bags of character.

Headed up by owner Marc Bridgen, service from the young staff is attentive yet not intrusive. Deservedly proud of their kitchen, the team displays excellent knowledge of the menu as well as local food, wines and gins. An inviting conservatory and patio garden, in addition to the convivial pub and restaurant, provides ample spots for relaxing.

• Bar and lounge
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

All but two of the eight bedrooms are found in the main building and deliver bags of architectural character. Contemporary wet rooms are tucked beneath sloping eaves and rooms are kept uncluttered for maximum sense of space.

Room types: Compact Double, King Size Double, Double or Twin, Super King Double, Four Poster Suite, Grand Super King, Family Suite, The Doghouse

Key amenities: ensuite with shower, TV, iron, hairdryer, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi

Chef Sam McClurkin developed his culinary skills under the tutelage of Tom Kerridge (Hand and Flowers) and Stephen Harris (The Sportsman) and serves imaginative, deeply satisfying food. Expect dishes like seared king scallops with a chestnut velouté or bottarga and wood sorrel. Breakfasts, also popular with locals, include treats like fried duck eggs and porridge with whisky.

The Dog: set menu and a la carte, Sunday roasts, homemade bar snacks. Open daily for breakfast. Lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. Sunday lunch 12-5pm. Mains from £17.