When one imagines a quintessentially English country pub – Fleur de Lys might not be the first name that springs to mind. Yet despite its curiously-French title, this hidden Warwickshire gem encapsulates everything that’s great about the modern-day countryside inn.

Located in the charming village of Lowonsford, just a short drive from nearby Henley-in-Arden, Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon, this perfectly situated, canal-side restaurant and alehouse has seen it all across its long and eclectic history. From 15th century workers cottage complex to blacksmith’s forge, with a short stint as a mortuary thrown in for good measure, this much-loved fixture of Warwickshire village life has been at the heart of its community for over five centuries, serving up a generous dose of traditional countryside hospitality to locals, labourers and day-visitors alike.

Packed to the nines with period character, one felt instantly at home amongst Fleur De Lys’ low-hanging wooden beams, inglenook fireplaces and cosy corner-nooks, whilst the expansive outdoor seating area (overlooking the nearby canal side) was, in every way, perfect for soaking up the late Spring sunshine over a cold beer or two.

Like the best modern-day ale-houses, Fleur de Lys comes complete with a generous drinks menu of cask ales and signature cocktails alongside an extensive international wine menu, bringing together a carefully-curated selection of reds, whites, rose, dessert wine, prosecco and classic champagnes for every occasion.

And unlike your typical choice of ‘Burgers’, ‘Sharers’ and ‘Steaks’, this was a menu bursting with originality and quality. And nowhere more so was this demonstrated that by Fleur de Lys’ mouth-watering menu of artisan, homemade pies, which ranged from the classic Steak and Ale and Chicken, Leek and Bacon to the vegan-friendly Veggie Balti and vegetarian Wild Mushroom and Asparagus and Butternut Squash, Spinach and Goats Cheese. Delicious!

Opting for a classic starter of Baked Camembert with red onion marmalade (£12), it was clear that every effort had been made to ensure only the freshest and finest quality local produce would do. The Camembert was expertly prepared, with a rich, earthy flavour that wasn’t overpowering, and which was complimented beautifully by the sweet notes of red onion marmalade. Melt-in-the-mouth and served on freshly baked crusty white bread, every mouthful was a delight, right through to fresh salad garnish of Spring radishes, red onion, carrot and fresh beetroot.

My partner’s choice of Chicken Liver and Brandy Parfait (£7.50), likewise, did not disappoint. Generous in portion size, silky in texture with a mild yet slightly sweet flavour, this delicate pate was the ideal appetiser, served (once again) with a beautifully light, yet crunchy ciabatta bread roll and tangy red onion marmalade dip, for added flavour contrast.

Choosing from the distinctive and well-thought through menu of Main courses, a brief glance revealed not only a strong contingent of hearty pub favourites (including Beer Battered Fish and Chunky Chips, Wholetail Scottish Scampi and Wagyu Beef Burger with Monterey Jack Cheese) but, also, a fantastic choice of seasonal specialities. From Pan Fried Cod Fillet in creamy lemon and chive sauce, served with buttered leeks and fresh new potatoes (£19) to warm Potato and Veg Terrine (£15) combining grilled asparagus, Lyonnaise potatoes, butternut squash, leek and spinach in a garlic and herb pomodoro sauce, it was hard to settle on just one.

Eventually though, it was the Roast Duck Breast in pomegranate sauce served with chunky butternut squash & balsamic red onions (£25) that won me over. Beautifully prepared, just the right side of medium-rare, the duck breast was tender and melted in the mouth, whilst the sweet and sour tang of the balsamic butternut squash and red onion offered the perfect counterpart in flavour. Special mention too, must go to the ‘matchstick’ fries, which – in every way – lived up to their name. Light, crispy with a salty kick and the perfect texture for mopping up what remained of that deliciously tart pomegranate sauce. A real joy to eat.

And what self-respecting visitor worth their salt could visit Fleur de Lys without sampling one of their signature Lowonsford pies! Opting for the award-winning Steak and Stilton pie encased in shortcrust pastry and served with chunky chips and veg (£18), our hostess Harriet wasted no time in entertaining us with tales of the pub’s proud pie-making heritage which began life during the 50s as the home of ‘Fleur de Lys’ pies…now famous the world over.

Rich, full-bodied in flavour and yet feather-light in texture, this was a pie worth shouting about. The stilton sauce was creamy and subtle rather than overbearing, leaving ample room for the earthy flavours of the steak to shine through. The puff pastry lid too, was a stroke of genius, being both buttery, light and flaky to the taste, whilst also ensuring the pie filling remained moist during cooking.

With our spirits warmed and stomachs close to full, dessert could have easily been a temptation too far. That is, until, the prospect of a Warm Treacle Tart (£7) came my way. Served with a luxurious caramel sauce & light honeycomb ice-cream, this was decadence on a plate and the ultimate crowd-pleasing finale to any meal, as was my partner’s choice of warm Sticky Toffee Pudding with custard; a delightfully rich blend of caramelised sugar and dense toffee sponge, at once skilfully prepared and, at the same time, deeply comforting.

With a plentiful choice of Sunday roasts, sandwiches, light bites and extensive children’s menu as standard, it really is hard to find fault with this picture-perfect pub and kitchen. Against so glorious a backdrop as Lowonsford, it would be so easy to compromise on quality. But not here. Here is a business built on a genuine passion for what the country pub can and should be; warm, welcoming, unpretentious and a place that the community can really take pride in.

As owners Emma and Nick Woodhouse celebrate their 10th year as custodians of the property this year, it’s clear to see that Fleur De Lys is well and truly flowering. Long may it continue!

By Katherine Ewing