Pint to pint: The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Worcestershire Which is the name the pub used to be known by. It was built in the 14th century as a longhouse, and it was only on the death of its last landlady, Lola Taplin, who lived here all her life, that the pub was bequeathed to the NT. Not that she has left, according to the locals. They say she returns in the shape of an owl, and keeps an eye on the place from the roof of the thatched barn across the courtyard. There can't be much to ruffle her feathers. The bar may not be big, but it serves four bitters: lovely Wye Valley (3.7%) and flowery Pig's Ear (5.0%, brewed by Uley, of Dursley) are the regulars, and there are always visitors - on this occasion Butcombe Bitter (4.0%) and perky Launcelot Ale (Goffs of Gloucestershire, 4.5%). As well as meals priced with the lord of the manor in mind (sirloin steak £15.95, beef Wellington £19.95), there is a more peasant-friendly pie of the day for £8.95, plus local faggots and sausages, and three different types of Scotch egg (£3.25). Summer weekends get crowded (hence the vast orchard of a garden), but on winter weekdays, you can take your pick of three different stone-floored areas: two on the ground floor, one more snug-like, down a couple of stairs. Outdoors, tonight (November 3) there are handbells, illumination from vintage Tilley lanterns, and of course a bonfire. Best seat in the house, though, is in one of the tall pews. There have been all kinds of scientific and medical advances since the 14th century, but a high-backed fireside seat at The Fleece still remains the absolute benchmark of well-being. You just can't get any cosier. The Fleece, Bretforton, nr Evesham, Worcestershire (01386 831173; thefleeceinn.co.uk)