The Wheatsheaf

The ever-hospitable Pear family, who are also behind the popular (and posh) Pecks restaurant down the road in Congleton, continue to improve the Wheatsheaf. Since taking over the down-at-the-heel hostelry just a few years ago, they have restored its coaching inn glory. Behind heavy front doors, the large Victorian pub – red brick with castellated bays, and gables peeping out of the attic – has been turned into a gleaming gastropub with nine chic bedrooms above.

The dining room has had an art deco facelift: shimmering velvet banquettes, golden pineapples and dusky lighting. Blankets hang considerately on the back of chairs on the terrace, which twinkles with fairy lights. It’s opulent but comfortable; you could just as easily drop in for a coffee or a three-course meal. Start the day right with a Wheatsheaf breakfast or fill up properly at lunch and dinner with a well-rounded menu, including dishes such as beef and mushroom pie or pan-fried hake and baby octopus. Round off with a passion fruit and white chocolate cheesecake or an old English trifle.