For the dedicated pub-goer and the armchair drinker, here is an enticing selection of 'proper' pubs to gladden the heart and slake the thirst.

All of these pubs get the basics right: they focus on the beer (though the food and wine may also be excellent) and on conversation rather than piped music. They may have a roaring fire in winter and a pleasant beer garden in summer. You can probably bring your dog. Above all, they have a notable character that raises them above the bland corporate pubs that blight the land. It can be hard to say exactly why - but you just know a good pub the moment you enter.

Trusted Telegraph reviewers have made their selection for you, based on highly personal but well-informed criteria, resulting in a nationwide pub crawl like no other. This is the perfect book for anyone who considers a good pub to be a British birthright.