As countryside pub locations go, they don’t get much more picturesque than The Black Lion. This dreamy 15th century gastropub, with ten individually styled rooms, overlooks the large village green (lined with candy-coloured historic houses) and the wow-factor wool church of Long Melford, so called because its high street runs for an incredible three miles! Long Melford has an incredibly long history and there’s been a pub on this site serving locals since the 1600s. Today, The Black Lion is owned by The Chestnut Group (known for owning some of the best pubs in the region), and the pub has been given a stunning modern makeover while still retaining lots of original character and elegance.

Don’t just stop by for a drink, because the food, which focuses on local produce, is fabulous, especially the Sunday Roast – and you can always work it off traipsing the three miles up and down the high street visiting all the antiques shops and independent boutiques. There’s a pretty country garden out the back – a real sun trap in summer – and plenty of walks and attractions right on the doorstep including Melford Hall and Kentwell Hall.

You don’t have to be local to enjoy this standout pub because there are ten spacious rooms with huge Georgian windows that are just made for relaxed weekend escapes in the countryside. With so many walks and the wonderful mid-Suffolk countryside around you it would be a shame to leave your beloved pooch at home. Thankfully The Black Lion is dog-friendly and then some… with a special Muddy Paws stay that includes an F&B packages for your four-legged friend too!