English country pub: The Bells of Peover

I don't know about you, but I just love a traditional English country pub! It's even better when you find one not only with great food, but also a great history, and that's just what this post is all about.

The Bells of Peover, near Knutsford, is an iconic Cheshire pub which is believed to date all the way back to 1839. It sits opposite the half-timbered mediaeval church of St Oswald, whose own records date back to 1269.

At the end of a quaint cobbled lane, you'll find a real warm welcome - the staff are fantastic. The chef's idea is to use the best of British seasonal ingredients, and I have to say the food is just perfect. I had a fabulous goats cheese dish, but it's an ever changing menu so don't get your hopes up for that one!

As well as superb food, the wine list is fantastic. We had a great chat with the manager about the wines on offer. Not only was he very knowledgeable, he also seemed to value our opinions on the prices and the selection that was available.

There is so much to learn about this place that you can actually pick up a double page of A4 on the history of the Bells of Peover in the bar! Just to give you a taster - if you're wondering why the flag of the United States is hanging outside the pub - in 1944, when American soldiers were billeted at nearby Peover Hall, General Eisenhower and General Patton made plans for the D-Day invasion of Normandy over lunch here. If it's good enough for them......