"There is no castle at Killingworth, which is actually in the village of Wooton. This seventeenth-century public house was built by one Thomas Killingworth and either he gave it such a grand-sounding name or maybe the locals nicknamed it such. In its long history Killingworth Castle was also known as the Red Lion, but the new owners, Jim and Claire Alexander have restored the old name and the old signage.

The pub is popular with locals – and their dogs – with a long low bar and a log-burning stove. It also has a snug for private dining and two public dining rooms at the back, with a view of the open kitchen. Here bearded Will and his sturdy team of chefs turn out a compact but tasty menu that places a lot of emphasis on organic ingredients, including a fine venison burger. The beer is Yubby, a brew made specifically for Claire and Jim to their own recipe, and there are some good organic wines on the menu.

Guests stay in eight cosy suites that have been carved out of four old cottages that share the forecourt with the inn itself. Complementary decanters of sherry and homemade biscuits greet guests on arrival.

Walkers will love the hotel’s website, which has a section devoted to walks and rides, some of which start at the pub or nearby in Woodstock or Wychwood Forest. They range in length from one mile to eight and a half over pretty level terrain. Given the hotel’s obvious friendliness towards dogs (not just in the bar but in two dog-friendly cottages as well) this is a fine place to go dog-walking. Whether or not you have a four-legged friend, however, Killingworth Castle is a lovely friendly base for a weekend in the country with your boots."