A COUNTRY inn chain has opened its sixth site in the picturesque north Hampshire village of Odiham – and for one of the directors, it’s a real homecoming.

The Bel & The Dragon at The George was officially opened this month. The inn is offering British food and an extensive selection of fine wines, as well as 10 bedrooms, in a Grade II listed building that retains many of its original features from as far back as 1540.

The Bel & The Dragon is styled in its distinctive cosy and classic manner by interior designer Nicola Harding, who was born in Odiham.

Ronnie Kimbugwe, Longshot County Inns partner and group head chef, who spent seven years working with Gordon Ramsay, has created the menu for the restaurant, which focuses on British food using as much local produce as possible.

It includes simple favourites such as sustainable fish pie and linguini of Devon crab and fresh chilli, parsley and garlic oil, as well as a rotisserie menu with dishes including maple glazed breast of Gressingham duck, Savoy cabbage and roasted suckling pig, crispy crackling and spiced apple.

The menu will also include a selection of dishes cooked using a Josper Grill – a charcoal oven.

The Bel & The Dragon has a bar area, while diners will be able to watch the chefs at work in an open-plan kitchen. Al fresco dining will be available on warmer days on an outside terrace.

Joel Cadbury, a director, said: “After growing up in Odiham, I am delighted to be part of the team responsible for bringing Bel & The Dragon to the stunning setting, that is The George in Odiham.

“We are committed to a seasonal and local focus, as well as using the best of British ingredients. Our wine list will provide fantastic value for money at all levels, ranging from Magnums of House Wine, where our customers are only charged for what they drink, to a Cellar List celebrating the best vintages and finest wines in Bordeaux, at extraordinary prices.

“Whether joining us for breakfast, lunch, tea or dinner, or even spending the night, we hope to make people feel at home”