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Swan

The flamboyant Mitford sisters grew up in Swinbrook and this inn belonged to 'Debo', the youngest sister, who became the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire. She died in 2014 but it still belongs to the Chatsworth Estate ' look out for the Mitford family photographs blown up on the walls. It's a smart but cosy retreat in a lovely position by a bridge over the River Windrush. Some of the elegant and comfortable bedrooms are beside by the water, and the outdoor seats and picnic-sets share the same view. The little bar has simple antique furnishings, settles and benches, an open fire, and a stuffed swan (in an alcove); locals do drop in for a pint and a chat. A small dining room leads off from the bar to the right of the entrance, and there are also two garden rooms with high-backed beige and green dining chairs around pale wood tables and views across the garden and orchard. A new bar has been installed in the garden. Hook Norton Hooky Gold, North Cotswold Windrush Ale and Purity Bunny Hop on handpump, nine wines by the glass, farm ciders and local draught lager; staff are first class. Background music, board games and TV. The Kings Head in Bledington (Gloucestershire) is run by the same top-notch licensees.