The Saracens Head

It pays to arrive early at this big, buzzing traditional pub with restaurant and rooms if you want your pick of the tables, and you’ll understand why as soon as you get here. The Saracens Head, run by brothers Chris and Pete Rollinson, sits beside the River Wye in a heavenly little beauty spot called Symonds Yat, a 10-minute drive from Ross-on-Wye. The best views are from the two large terraces literally feet from the water. Not surprisingly, it gets very busy, especially in summer. Of course, if you choose to stay overnight you get it all to yourself in the morning. There are 9 rooms, unfussy, modern, the best and biggest 2 of which are in the separate Boathouse. You may or may not be pleased to know that no kids under 14 or pets are allowed to stay, though they can come and enjoy the food. Meals are served in the laid-back bar, relaxed restaurant or outside when you can bag a table. The menu features basic pub crowd-pleasers, well cooked and nicely presented – meat-eaters will love the Welsh Black ribeye steak. If you are overnighting, expect a generous brekkie, but you can work off calories doing a great outdoorsy activity nearby - canoeing, climbing, hiking, river cruises. The inn even provides free fishing licences for angler guests.