Ye Olde George Inn

Ye Olde George Inn, a cream painted 15th-century coaching inn peeping out from under a steep tiled roof with the River Meon running by the side, is set in what is regarded as one of the loveliest places in the valley, the village of East Meon. Owned and run by Mark Eyre who extends a warm, personal welcome, this atmospheric old inn retains oodles of character through its charming attributes such as the inglenook fireplaces and wooden floors.

The surrounding area is blessed with a wealth of local suppliers offering free-range and organic produce, and Mark changes his menus often to take advantage of these wonderful local ingredients. Everything is freshly prepared in the kitchen, except the hand-made ice cream, which is made at a local farm. The menu is seasonally inspired with lighter, fresh dishes in the summer and good hearty warming food in the winter. The kitchen team is happy to cater for all kinds of dietary requirements and, given enough notice, will design dishes to suit all guests’ needs.

Relax in one of Ye Olde George's recently refurbished bedrooms that still display traits from the original 15th-century building and are tastefully decorated in warm soothing colours. All are en-suite with plasma TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, free wi-fi and complimentary mineral water. As well as two twins and two doubles there is a superior double that can also be used as a family room.

The neat heated patio to the rear, festooned with colourful planters and green foliage, is a lovely spot for a satisfying lunch. Many ramblers drop in for refreshment following a delightful walk along the South Downs Way, which passes nearby.