CHECKERS

Do you stay here for the food or the surroundings? A difficult choice, for both are outstanding (if pushed we’d go for the former). The Checkers is a new kid on the block with an impeccable foodie pedigree. Chefs Stephane Borie and Sarah Francis have stellar CVs that include working at the Roux family’s Waterside Inn, Bray. They serve ‘classic French cooking that’s not fussy or fancy’, an approach aided and abetted by the unbeatable farm-fresh produce on their doorstep.

Sister Kathryn looks after front of house – she’s usually there to greet you in the light, airy bar/lounge, where modern art mingles with crooked old beams. Checkers’ inner temple is its classy restaurant, decorated in a modish French provincial style that chimes with the philosophy of the kitchen.

And let’s not forget the exquisite, simply decorated bedrooms, which come with quality furnishings and bathrooms. Restaurant closed Sunday and Monday.