The Wife of Bath in Wye has just celebrated 50 years of business.

It was in 1963 that the restaurant with rooms first opened its doors to the public in the medieval village.

We arrived on a cold November day. But with afternoon tea, dinner in the two rosette restaurant, followed by a stay in one of the five individually styled guest rooms, we didn’t need to be bothered by the weather.

With the town of Ashford a short drive away, this would make an ideal first night for a trip over on the Eurostar or a break in its own right. Wye has plenty to offer.

We could well have been back in 1963 Wye, as we stepped out and had a potter through the village, peering in the windows of the butchers, the bakers but no, unfortunately we couldn’t find a candle-stick maker. But I wouldn’t rule it out.

On a sunny day, we could have had a drink by the river, or just a leisurely stroll, taking in a village that is proud of its history and local produce. If we had arrived in June, we could have enjoyed Wye’s third annual food festival.

We had already checked into the four-poster bedroom, which was so cosy we decided to make full use of the flat-screen TV and the DVD collection, as we relaxed following afternoon tea.

With a vast menu of teas to choose from, there was no way I could ask for PG Tips, so I washed down a delicious platter with a fruit tea. The sandwiches were followed by cream scones and a trio of cakes. All hit the spot.

With dinner at 8pm, there was time post-DVD for a relax in the large bath before wandering down the stairs to be seated for dinner.

We were seated in front of a large open fire, in one of the two dining rooms, both with a homely and inviting feel.

The Wife of Bath makes full use of the local produce, using much of it in their food. For starters I was tempted by the ballotine of ham hock and the spring roll of lime-scented king prawns before opting for melt-in-your-mouth smoked duck.

The staff were attentive and friendly, without being fussy and it made for a relaxing evening. I should have packed my slippers.

A varied menu of mains included swordfish, partridge, Kentish lamb and plenty of options for the non-meat eaters.

I chose the local partridge which came with quince puree, slow baked garlic fondant and parsnip crisps. Yummy.

The dinner was polished off with a selection of local cheeses, accompanied by some home-made pickles. Just the right way to end the evening.

A good night sleep was followed by a great breakfast, which was served earlier than normal, as we were heading for a wedding. Nothing seemed to be any trouble for the staff, although I didn’t want to push it and ironed my own shirt!

What a great place to unwind and relax at the end of a busy week at work.