Expect a cheerful welcome at this pub with rooms, which stands by a bridge over the Union Canal in a conservation village. Fires burn in a bar popular with locals; in the inviting dining room, produce from local suppliers and the walled garden influences the menu of pub classics. 'Food cooked perfectly and nicely presented', reported our inspector, who also pointed out that 'service was cheerful and excellent'. There's an outdoor terrace for sunny days. Upstairs, snug, pleasingly simple bedrooms have a canal view. Breakfast brings sausages from rare-breed pigs, and freshly laid chicken and duck eggs from Ratho Hall. Convenient for Edinburgh Airport. Sister hotel The Ship Inn is in Elie (see entry).