1. The Devonshire Arms, Long Sutton, Somerset

Innovative food, cosy rooms with village views and stylish interiors draw a discerning crowd to this former hunting lodge.

Innovative food, cosy rooms with village views and stylish interiors draw a discerning crowd to The Devonshire Arms, a former hunting lodge standing by the village green in Long Sutton. With a log fire, flagstoned floors and three hand pumps at the bar, it's still a historical local haunt with contemporary, quirky touches, such as Victorian features and art from local artists, bringing a personal touch to the classy open-plan space.

For those feeling serene after a walk on the Levels, settle into a Chesterfield by the open fire in the bar and relax. Or, enjoy the main walled garden with tables under the pergola, or head out to the front of the pub to enjoy views over the village green and church.

2. Sign of the Angel, Lacock, Wiltshire

Truly unspoilt 15th century gem in a timeless National Trust village, offering period charm, modern food and cosy rooms.

Nestled in the timeless village of Lacock, the Sign of the Angel is a quintessential countryside inn. One of the architectural gems in the National Trust owned village, the timber framed inn on Church Street is a 15th-century wool merchant's house and former coaching inn.

The inn retains the impressive original doorway and medieval layout, exuding historic charm with heavy beams, creaking floors, huge stone fireplaces, heavy oak furniture and ancient latch doors. Its rich history is emphasised by the village of Lacock itself, with its twisting streets, packed with attractive buildings from the 15th to 18th-centuries, possessing all the character and atmosphere of medieval England.

1. The Devonshire Arms, Somerset

It's cider country in these parts, so head to Wilkins Cider Farm and get to the bottom of why cider is such a big deal. Don't go expecting a fancy farm shop, simply pop into the barn and get cider straight from the barrel. You can also stock up on fresh vegetables, eggs and pickles as well.

Head to beautiful Wells for a lovely day out, with plenty of things to see and do. The jewel in the city's crown is its historic cathedral, noted for its superb gothic interior. The famous West Front, with its intricate sculptures, is a real work of art. Look out for the moated 13th-century Bishop's Palace and a host of historic landmarks nearby.

Just a stone's throw from Glastonbury, a visit to Clarks Village is a true shopping experience. Here, you can shop in stylish surroundings comprising paved walkways and landscaped gardens. There are many designer and high street stores, a restaurant terrace for alfresco and indoor dining and a choice of all-important coffee shops.

Based in the heart of the Somerset Levels, John Leach's Muchelney Pottery has been running for half a century. The pots are all lovingly and expertly hand-thrown, using local clays, and the shop is open all year apart from Sunday.

Close to Yeovil, the Fleet Air Arm Museum represents the flying arm of the Royal Navy - a place for serious hardware with serious capability. Home to Europe's largest collection of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, aerial enthusiasts with be blown away!

2. Sign of the Angel, Wiltshire

Spend some time getting to know the stunning Saxon village of Lacock, which has changed little since the Middle Ages. Preserved by the National Trust, Lacock's stone cottages and narrow streets are regularly visited by film and television crews and looking round, you can understand why. Harry Potter and Cranford have been filmed here, among many familiar productions and adaptations. While in the village, take a look at Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot Museum of photography.

Acknowledged by historians as one of Europe's most important Neolithic sites, Avebury is one of numerous ancient landmarks found within the Wessex region. It's fascinating to stroll among these brooding standing stones, which make up one of the largest remaining henge monuments.

Bowood House lies within easy reach of Corsham, Chippenham and Calne. As well as the house, which includes collections of heirlooms, porcelain and paintings, there are pretty terraced gardens and a lake. Expect, too, a gift shop, garden centre, licensed restaurant and tea room.