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The Old Bell at Ramsbury, Wiltshire

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Pubs

Imagine those first travellers between London and Bristol, who journeyed for days on horseback or within the confines of a carriage on rough dirt tracks. Picture their rosy-cheeked glee as they spotted an old English inn, candlelight glowing through the windows.

There are still many of these historic, timber-beamed pubs in existence along the Great West Way, and you can stay in them too. Although you’ll be pleased to note that, these days, they won’t make you rest your weary body on a bed of straw or give you only one choice of homebrewed ale to revive their spirits.

In fact, many pubs with rooms now rival the nicest of hotels. Some are now luring guests on the strength of their exquisite dining alone, and along the touring route you’ll find plenty of gastropubs and several that have been awarded a Michelin star or two. Others have had a boutique makeover, with opulent, designer rooms and even sumptuous spas to unwind in.

A pub stay is a fine place to sample the local cuisine, but also to socialise. Sit fireside and share a pint with some of the locals. As the gathering place for many rural communities for centuries, this is a unique way to get the inside scoop on what real life is like in England. You could even challenge your partner to a game of pool or a round of darts, both popular pub games - if you dare. Or play historian and ask the landlord or landlady (certain to be a character) about the pub’s long gone but never forgotten past Warning: may include tales of resident ghosts.