The Five Alls, Cheltenham

Head down Bath Road towards the edge of town and you'll find The Five Alls doing exactly what a neighbourhood pub should do—serving decent drinks without any faffing about. The kind of place where regulars have their spots and the staff remember your order, but newcomers are genuinely welcome. You're getting solid pub classics here, the sort of food that pairs well with a real ale or a crisp lager, and the drinks list actually rewards paying attention. It's got character without trying too hard, which is exactly why it works.