Bells of Peover, Lower Peover

This is a quintessentially English pub in a superb rural setting. Set directly opposite the beautiful St Oswald's half-timbered 13th century church, one of the oldest in Europe, you can sit on the patio and watch weddings or listen to the bells being rung. Both the church and the pub are Grade I listed.

The white-painted exterior of the inn is graced by the original inn sign, dating from 1839 and showing the crest of the de Tabley family. It was known originally as the 'Warren de Tabley Arms', and later passed to the Bell family, which is the origin of the name, rather than the proximity of the church. Bow windows with leaded lights feature behind the cobbled frontage. If you enter from the patio, passing the hanging baskets and window boxes, you will note the hearts picked out in black on the walls, and the enormous blue Wisteria which almost covers the frontage.

Although it can be very busy, the interior is attractive and stylish. Refurbished in 2008, is has a bright atmosphere with stone flagged and solid oak floors. On the right as you enter is a delightful small snug with settle, wooden fireplace and large mirror. This room boasts a collection of Toby jugs.

The back room has been refurbished with pastel colurs and a light airy feel.

The lounge on the left has a blackleaded fireplace, huge brass plates, old county maps and atmospheric lighting provided by brass coach lights. Thre is a furthe restaurant room on the right of the pub, reached by walking through behind the bar. Upstairs is a restaurant where silver service and a separate menu are planned. Newspapers and magazines are thoughtfully provided.

The large car park unusually has a fountain in the middle, and visitors will note the Union Jack and the Stars & Stripes flying from the wall. This commemorates the wartime meeting of Generals Patton and Eisenhower here. At the bottom of the attractive rose-strewn gardens flows a small stream, the Peover Eye. This follows the route of a very pleasant six-mile circular walk between the two Peovers, taking in the Whipping Stocks inn and an attractive church in each village. The paths are marked on the O. S. map. This is one of Cheshire's classic country walks and is detailed in several books.

Dining is a major part of the trade and the food is freshly prepared. Much emphasis is placed on quality of service.

The beers are from family brewer Robinsons of Stockport, but the perfectionists amongst us would wish for a more exotic choice of beers. With a guest beer policy Bells could be unsurpassable.

Location Oddity: The cobbled access road is in Cheshire West & Chester but the pub is in Cheshire East.