Lion Inn, Trellech

Set in what is now a des-res village but was once historically a very important medieval town, the Lion offers good all-round hospitality. Built in the late 16th Century and actually completed in 1580, it was originally a coaching inn, brew house and pig farm. Many of the original features of the brewing cellar still remain, as do a number of outhouses that were used as pig sties. A split level pub with a dining room on the left and cosy bar on the right, it boasts two real fires and, naturally, a collection of model lions. In addition to an extensive menu featuring good value standard pub fayre, including smaller portions for those with a lighter appetite, the menu boasts some unusual dishes. The pub holds a beer and music festival in June plus a cider, perry and music festival in August. One of up to four cask ales is usually Wye Valley Butty Bach. Also local real ciders. Open mic sessions on 1st and 3rd Mondays, jazz and folk on 2nd Sunday. Visit before or after exploring the three Bronze Age standing stones ('Harold's Stones'), healing well, castle mound and ancient church.