The Beacon Bar & Restaurant - Tunbridge Wells

Occupying a Victorian country house built as the rural retreat for a certain Sir Walter Harris, Lord Lieutenant of London, the Beacon Bar & Restaurant looks out over some of the finest scenery in south-east England - and it's only a short drive from genteel Tunbridge Wells.

The house itself has some stunning original features, including fine stained-glass windows and an oak-panelled bar; alfresco meals-with-a-view are a big draw, and the Beacon also has guest accommodation for those wanting to linger.

Chef James Horn trained with Michelin legend Albert Roux and visitors can enjoy the fruits of his culinary labours in the recently refurbished dining room. He cooks accessible modern food along the lines of duck breast cured in mulled wine with homemade apricot marmalade, seared fillets of sea bass and glazed tiger prawns with lemon and mustard sauce, and lightly minted chocolate torte. On Sundays, breakfast is served in advance of a traditional family roast. The 65-bin wine list includes a dozen selections by the glass; three draught beers are also available.