A Mendip pub with no phone signal, no gimmicks, and no intention of modernising has been named one of the best in England by The Telegraph – and it's not hard to see why.

The Hunters' Lodge Inn in Priddy has made the cut in a newly published list of the Top 500 Pubs in England, compiled by long-time pub journalist and beer writer Will Hawkes. The national list sets out to celebrate the most characterful, welcoming and well-kept pubs across the country – and the Hunters' Lodge more than delivers.

Hawkes, who has spent decades touring the country's pubs in search of what he calls "perfection," personally visited and handpicked every venue on the list. His write-up praises the Hunters' Lodge as a "delightful crossroads pub in the Mendips," calling it "marvellous" both inside and out.

At a time when many pubs are modernising to compete, the Hunters' Lodge is proudly stuck in time – and that's exactly what makes it special. It's been run by the same landlord for 55 years, has a loyal following of regulars, and continues to serve up local cider, traditional ales, and a proper pint without the fuss.

There are no mobile phones allowed (though, to be fair, there's not much signal to be had anyway), but folk musicians gather every Tuesday for an informal drop-in session, and dogs are always welcome. The garden is also a highlight, described by CAMRA as "pleasant and secluded" – an ideal spot to rest tired legs after a Mendip hike.

The recognition puts the Priddy pub in the same league as some of the UK's most celebrated inns and alehouses, with Hawkes' list aiming to shine a light on pubs that keep community, hospitality and heritage at their heart.

So if you fancy a pint in a proper pub – no apps, no playlists, no pretension – The Hunters' Lodge Inn might just be the best signal-free decision you make all year.