The Duck Inn

The Duck isn’t too far from the A2, but far enough to be a picture of bucolic tranquillity. It’s quite the hidden gem (a status to which single-track roads contribute) and is locally famous for its connection to Ian Fleming – a blue wall plaque states this is where the James Bond author wrote You Only Live Twice. But is it a pub? Is it a restaurant? In truth, the Duck is a bit of both – still rolling out the barrel for local drinkers and, thanks to chef-proprietor Kyle Hadley-Quinn, also an appealing gastronomic oasis. Sunday roasts tell one side of the story, but delicate potato gnocchi with garlic and Parmesan velouté, risottos, schnitzels, fish and chips and a not-to-be-missed ‘over the road’ burger featuring Aberdeen Angus beef from the farm opposite typify his flexible approach to contemporary British and classical themes. There’s a good-value lunch menu too, a wine list that’s built on popular appeal and value, plus open fires in winter and a terrace in summer. It’s also ‘dog friendly, child friendly and even horse friendly’.