Spencer Arms

If you find yourself in the quaint, rural village of Cawthorne - perhaps after visiting Canon Hall with its walled garden, Victorian kitchen and fine arts museum - don't scoot off too soon. Stop for a cask ale and a bite first at The Spencer Arms, found in a handy spot between junctions 37 and 38 of the M1.

This handsome red-brick building dates back to 1720. It was built by John Spencer Stanhope, of Cannon Hall fame, and is now a lovely South Yorkshire gastro pub. Find exposed brickwork, parquet flooring and gilded mirrors inside, picnic benches and a stretch tent outside for summer shade.

Chef Alex, who's worked on the Orient Express, now creates moreish dishes such as wild mushroom and stilton lasagne, vegan and meaty burgers, and sharing boards like the British coast platter. The Little Lambs menu will perk up tetchy children. If yours are still bleating, pop into Cawthorne's quirky Victoria Jubilee Museum for fossils, taxidermy and other curiosities.