The Old Vol

You'll drive through winding Nottinghamshire lanes to reach this converted Victorian school building, and immediately understand why people make the journey. The Old Vol has that rare quality of feeling both polished and properly pubby – think exposed beams and original schoolhouse features alongside genuinely good cooking that goes well beyond typical gastropub fare. The kitchen takes seasonal British ingredients seriously, while the bar pours a thoughtful selection of local ales and wines that pair beautifully with whatever's on the ever-changing menu. It's the kind of place where you'll spot farmers having lunch alongside couples celebrating anniversaries, all drawn by the same combination of warmth, quality, and that indefinable village pub atmosphere that can't be manufactured.