Sticking the word "new" in front of an old name when the line-up changes strikes me as a curious strategy. (It reminds me of a 70s band called the New Seekers.) It seems to have worked though, for the New French Partridge in Horton.

When partners Ian Oakenfull and Tanya Bannerjee acquired the restaurant in 2002, it had been closed for some time. There is indeed a lot which can justifiably be called new. They whipped through this 17th-century coaching inn with a six-week refurb, added a cellar bar and finally, a few months ago, got to grips with the 10 upstairs rooms to create seven doubles plus three suites. No two are alike, though each has a splendid iron bed and furnishings sourced from Denmark. A couple even have rolltop baths.

Just as well there's not far to go after dinner - a five-course affair (seven if you count the amuse bouche and pre-dessert). Several wines are offered by the glass in the restaurant and yet more down in the cellar bar. It's handy for London escapees and there's the added attraction of an Afternoon of Summer Music held in the wonderful gardens of nearby historic folly The Menagerie, built in 1765 for the Earl of Halifax.

· Dinner, bed and breakfast for two from £185 per night. 01604 870033, newfrenchpartridge.co.uk.

· Afternoon of Summer Music at The Menagerie (01604 870 957, menageriehorton.co.uk), September 2, tickets £25.

Tour Scotland in style

Until the end of the month, Scotland specialist McKinlay Kidd is offering £50 off its four-day Classic and Sports Car touring breaks. Three nights B&B at small three or four-star hotels, personalised route suggestions and a choice of car - such as Mercedes convertible CLK or SLK, Ferrari 308 or E-type Jaguar costs from £445pp (instead of £495).

· seescotlanddifferently.co.uk.

· sally.shalam@theguardian.com