Convenient for town centre, the river and Richmond Park, this refurbished pub dates back to the early 19th century when it was famed for its tea garden. Tea is still served in The Marlborough’s smart, leafy (heated) grounds, which boast 150 alfresco tables, cabanas and a convivial conservatory overlooking the bucolic scene. The interior has been gussied up in Grantchester style, from where you can also sample owner’s Young’s ales, along with Prosecco, Chablis or Provençal rosé from a selection of wines available by the bottle, glass and carafe. Sneak in a couple of Little Bird G&Ts while the kids are distracted by a giant chess set. Open for brunch, the kitchen produces consistently fine pub food: pigeon breast with bubble and squeak followed by mushroom and butternut-squash risotto with a Wensleydale crumble top, perhaps. Otherwise, share cheese and charcuterie boards and end on rhubarb pannacotta – if there’s room.