This ridiculously pretty pub in tucked-away Nettlecombe is best enjoyed in the summer when its ‘country garden’ splendour comes into full boom. The bare bones of the place haven’t changed much since the 16th century, although its original punters wouldn’t recognise the slides, swings and hideouts in the pub’s outdoor play area. Otherwise, it’s quintessentially Dorset, with Thatcher’s Gold cider and Bridport-brewed Palmer’s beers on the pumps, plus a menu of gussied-up dishes to satisfy any hunger pangs: eat in the restaurant from a seasonal repertoire that might run from roast Lyme Bay scallops and black pudding on mash via slow-roast pork belly with green apple purée or vegetable lasagne with lovage pesto to triple chocolate cheesecake. The Marquis is also popular on Bonfire Night, when its annual display is one of the best in the region. Stylish, country-cottage bedrooms too.