A storm was brewing as 33C of sun-soaked days looked set to be rained off in spectacular style. Tree branches were flying over the road as we made our way to Broadway for dinner at The Lygon Arms.

Big fat drops of rain began to pelt the hot pavement as we wandered along the pretty high street. And we slowed down to let them cool us, rather than the typical dash for shelter.

Inside the beautiful historic hotel, the welcome (after temperature scans) was very warm indeed. We were offered chilled glasses of water while we waited to be seated in the stunning dining room.

The casually dressed staff in dark blue jeans and pale blue shirts all wore face masks and were keen to ensure every detail was perfect.

They were busy though and we were a little surprised when our starters arrived before our drinks.

It wasn’t a big deal, as we were both hungry and still had our glasses of ice water, so we grabbed the cutlery and cracked on.

We decided to share. The crispy squid (£8) was outstanding. Piping hot with a light, crispy batter, the meat was chunky and perfectly cooked. A dipping sauce, presented in a mini plant pot, added a tang and was utterly wonderful.

The slices of unassuming sausage roll (£6), served up on wooden boards, were absolutely superb. Flaky pastry casing was melt-in-the-mouth, dusted with toasted seeds and wrapped around the most flavoursome sausage that couldn’t possibly have been more delicious. Again, the accompanying dipping sauce added an extra level of indulgence which took it well beyond the typical bar snack category. It was nothing short of f-a-b-u-l-o-u-s!

As our drinks arrived, we admired our surroundings, which really are something quite special. The high arched ceiling is the same navy blue as the walls, with striking chandeliers made of horns spilling down. The marble topped tables are each individually lit, creating a cosy glow within the seductive space.

Our mains were chosen to reflect the heat of a (very) steamy summer’s day. My partner went for a tuna sashimi (£20), while I opted for the summer peach salad (£14).

Both were fresh and delicious. My chunky pieces of peach added a sweetness and bite to the greenery surrounding it with plenty of peas, broad beans and spinach, scattered with crunchy granola.

While Matt’s pink tuna was delicately sliced and balanced upon a colourful salad with perfectly soft little quails eggs, loads of glossy black olives and a good mix of crunchy green beans and halved cherry tomatoes.

Had it been a colder, cosier evening, we might have opted for dessert but, in the raging August heat, the starter and mains had done us proud.

So we headed back out into the welcome cooling drops of rain, with a return visit already on our minds for autumn.

For more information visit www.thelygonarmshotel.co.uk