Many of you will have heard of the Donkey Sanctuary. Big advertisers on the TV, traditionally. But never mind the donkeys, because there’s one of the best examples of a West Country pub nearby.

The Mason’s Arms in Branscombe, East Devon, is a haven of a pub; a 14th century boozer with a roaring fire — two roaring fires — a solid list of cask ales and a food menu that deviates from ...