Britain’s best cosy pubs have been named by The Good Food Guide – with one within driving range of Watford making the cut.

The Alford Arms in Frithsden – a hamlet near Hemel Hempstead – made a 50-strong list published by the dining guide this week.

Located just 25 minutes' drive up the A41 from Watford, The Alford Arms was described by one happy punter as setting the “gold standard for pubby excellence in this neck of the Chilterns”.

The Alford Arms is just a 25-minute drive from Watford.The Alford Arms is just a 25-minute drive from Watford. (Image: Google Maps) According to The Good Food Guide, others said it is “consistently top notch” and hailed its “glorious location in a bucolic hamlet on the fringes of Ashridge Estate”.

Its “tasteful farmhouse-chic interiors” came in for praise, as well as the hand-pulled ales and the “savvy all-European wine list”.

“Much of the credit for its enduring appeal must go to David and Becky Salisbury, who have been running the show and championing the cause since 1999,” the guide added.

There is a fantastic food offering, which includes bubble ‘n’ squeak with oak-smoked bacon, free-range poached egg and hollandaise, but everything changes on a weekly basis with various seasonal dishes.

The guide added: “Given the pub’s landlocked location, fish has to make the long journey up from the West Country, but the haul speaks for itself.

“How about Cornish crab with chilli-buttered courgette linguine, or hake fillet with crushed new potatoes, buttered kale and caper sauce.

“Chatty, well-informed staff provide ‘first-class service’, whether you’re popping in for a pint or contemplating the full three courses. Dogs are ‘welcomed rather than tolerated,’ too.”

What does the pub say?

Describing its ethos on its website, The Alford Arms says: "Who would run a pub? Well, truth be told, we would. It’s what we do – what we’ve always wanted to do. Bring the pubs of fond memory into the light once more. So we searched the highways and (often forgotten) byways of the Chilterns to create our little born-again boozer.

"Unsung little gems, ready for a new start. And although our pub may be a tad harder to find than most, people find their way; from first-time visitors and the fine diners to the regulars and locals who call us home. Our pub is for everyone – you may even have to step over a dog or two on your way to the bar. This is how it has always been and how we like it.

"So what makes us different, we hear you say? It really is quite simple: if we can, we will! Just ask and we will bend over backward to help you enjoy every second you spend with us. All you have to do is ask…"