One of England’s oldest inns, The Ostrich dates back some 900 years and is a rambling monster of a place. The modern interior may come as a bit of a surprise after viewing the wonky timbered facade, but a huge amount has been spent on jazzing up the beams and standing timbers and they blend well with the black slate floors, chunky wooden furniture, jewelled colours and stained glass. Given the pub’s proximity to Heathrow, the M4 and M25, the extensive menu is tailored to the needs of travellers and commuters – so choose from a selection of pub classics (sandwiches, steaks, burgers, salads) or look to the carte for the likes of game parfait or warm brie fondue ahead of braised lamb shoulder with honey-roasted winter vegetables, stout and mead-laced juices.