The Three Conies, Thorpe Mandeville

If you’ve been searching for the perfect foodie pub with real personality then welcome (with jazz hands) to The Three Conies. Perched on the border of Northants and Oxfordshire, it’s absolutely bursting with colour and character and no shortage of kitsch, thanks to owners Rob and Darren, who have have pulled out all the stops to put their creative stamp on this beautiful 17th century ironstone pub.

You might be anticipating the standard greige gastropub vibe when you pull into the car park but, as soon as you step through the door, your expectations are well and truly thwarted by a delightful sense of drama. Jewell-dark walls and opulent decor bring a uniquely playful character that you won’t find anywhere else. Afghan hound statues guard a polished pianola, surrounded by eclectic paintings and swathes of foliage in every direction. It’s like a Victoriana, Alice in Wonderland speakeasy. If you love the quirky character of the decor, there’s even a chance to make it your own as there’s a little shop in the bar where you can buy your favourite pieces to take home.

Head Chef Rob likes to say the food is honest pub grub (we reckon it’s a cut above). There’s something to please everyone on the ever-changing menu, from slow roast lamb shank or Aberdeen Angus cheeseburger to catch of the day, and the epic Sunday roasts will likely keep you going all week. The elaborate, and extremely filling, afternoon teas are also an absolute must. Darren heads up front of house and there’s always plenty of decent beer on tap as it’s a Hook Norton pub, but with fifty gins on offer you could be in for a long and very fun evening beside one of the cosy log fires.

In warmer weather there’s also a large garden with a deck, patio heaters and a boules pitch, plus dogs are welcome, making it the perfect post-walk pitstop or sundowner stop off.