Locals enjoy pints in the bar of this 'friendly village pub' with its scrubbed tables, 'original touches' to its food, and comfortable, homely bedrooms. In the Vale of the White Horse, close to both Oxford's charms and excellent walks, the red brick Georgian inn has been turned into a popular pub by owners Martyn Reed and Catriona Galbraith. There are local ales and pub quizzes in the beamed bar with a wood-burner in the inglenook fireplace. Eat here or in the red-walled dining area on dishes that might start with popcorn mussels with katsu mayonnaise before a starter of cashew nut oat cake and smoked hay cream cheese followed by tandori lamb rump with spiced belly samosa. Pub classics include burgers and 'really excellent' fish and chips. 'Food is cooked to an extremely high standard' with 'good beers and wines'. 'Nicely decorated' bedrooms with an 'exceptionally comfy bed' are in soft country colours with a mix of vintage and painted furniture, and have fresh milk and home-made biscuits; most have bath and shower. 'Excellent breakfasts' include home-made granola, eggs cooked to order and veggie options. 'Really good value.' (Rob and Shirley Lyne, P and JC)