Pubs

A group of pub reviewers ‘one of the oldest pubs in England’ and they were blown away by its history – the Grade II-listed building claims to date back to 1189

Pub fans have shared their verdict on “one of the best pubs in England“, and were absolutely staggered by its history. Known under the handle @thosepubguys on social media, the group travel the country , sampling pubs and rating them online.

In a latest clip, they descended upon Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham, prompting them to wonder: “Is this the oldest pub in England?” Their Instagram caption declared: “This pub ranks 2nd in our list of best pubs in the country, and you can see why! There is so so so much history. It is literally built into the side of a cliff with secret tunnels to Nottingham Castle above it!”

During the footage, they guide viewers through the establishment and its passageways, recounting legends and historical tales.

The Grade II-listed premises is believed to trace back to 1189, though certain records indicate it might have been founded several centuries afterwards.

According to History Hit: “The pub’s name derives from King Richard the Lionheart and his men gathering there before journeying to Jerusalem in 1189 AD.”

“It was also said to be a local hideout for the legendary outlaw, Robin Hood. Indeed, the word ‘trip’ in the name is thought to refer to a stop in a journey, rather than the journey itself, marking out the pub as somewhere people would stop at on a long pilgrimage, for instance.”

This distinctive watering hole features a compact cave network within, hewn from the sandstone rock. Connected to Nottingham Castle, the tunnel network has served as a clandestine route in and out of the fortress for hundreds of years.

The statement continues: “In one of the pub’s upstairs buildings is a small model of a wooden ship, known as the cursed galleon.

“It is said that a number of people who cleaned the ship all met untimely and unexplained deaths, so landlords have since refused to let anyone clean it, and have instead put the ship into a glass cabinet.

“Elsewhere, the pub houses the ‘pregnancy chair’, an old chair which was said to increase a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant when she sat in it.”

Reacting to their video, one viewer commented: “Always wanted to visit this pub.”

Someone else added: “My favourite city pub until I moved away.”

A third person said: “I’ve only just realised I’ve never been to Nottingham! Need to fix that, looks amazing.”

Another viewer added: “That’s really interesting, steeped in history.”

A TRIP to Devon isn’t complete without visiting a pub and luckily, the county has plenty.

Whether you prefer a pub garden or being by a cosy fireplace or have a dog with you, Devon is full of great pubs.

Though, it can be overwhelming to choose a spot, so here are some of the best pubs in the county from someone who has tried and tested them as a local…

Church House Inn, Marldon

The Church House Inn in the village of Marldon, South Devon is a gem not many stumble across.

The pub is out of the way from the main tourist spots in the area, but if you have a car it is well-worth the drive too.

Inside you will find traditional beams and exposed stone walls, as well as a large open roaring fire.

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In the summer, the garden is a tranquil spot to enjoy a spritz, with nothing but the hum of birds nearby and the church watching over the garden.

The Drum Inn, Cockington

Nestled in the unique village of Cockington, you will find The Drum Inn.

I have been caught in here on both scorching hot days and snowy winter storms, making it the ideal pub for all seasons.

It is a large pub but still has a cosy vibe and it is the perfect retreat after exploring the thatched cottages and fields of Cockington.

The Old Rydon Inn, Kingsteignton

Run by a couple of 20 years, The Old Rydon Inn in Kingsteignton is a very pretty pub.

It’s a Grade-II listed farmhouse, which used to be part of Lord Clifford’s Manor way back during the reign of Henry II.

The pub even still has the original elm screens dating to the early 16th century.

In the sunny weather, try and sit outside – plants crawl all over the building and it is very peaceful.

Court Farm Inn, Abbotskerswell

The Court Farm Inn used to be a farmhouse and was built in the 16th century.

Today, beams still feature inside and so do exposed stone walls.

The ciders served here are always cold and crisp and don’t forget to try desert if eating, they are unfussy but the ultimate comfort.

Steam Packet Inn, Kingswear

Just before you get the ferry across to Dartmouth town, make sure to stop off in the Steam Packet Inn.

Inside, this spot has a more modern feel with chic striped benches and blue tones throughout.

Perhaps though, the best thing about this pub is that it overlooks Darthaven Marina and the railway, where you will often see the steam train chugging past.

Masons Arms, Branscombe

The Masons Arms in Branscombe dates back to the 14th century and sits in a picturesque village.

The pub itself has a thatched roof, and then on the inside the decor includes pine cladding, low ceiling beams and of course, a roaring log fireplace.

During the day, this spot is ideal for coffee but of course, the ales are great too.

The St Austell Burger for £18 is a delicious feat, with Mena Dhu stout onion marmalade, Monterey Jack cheese, beef tomato, gherkin, pickled red slaw, and skin-on fries.

The Thatch, Croyde

There’s a reason why The Thatch has over 2,000 four and five-star reviews…

Though the food isn’t cheap, it is super flavoursome and a lot of the dishes put a sophisticated twist on pub classics.

Croyde Bay is right on the pub’s doorstep as well, making it the ideal spot post beach walks or surfing sessions.

Fairway Buoy, Bideford

Sat on the promenade in Bideford, Fairway Buoy overlooks the sprawling, golden sands beach.

It’s pet friendly and has a large outdoor seating area which is the ideal spot for watching the sunset.

The food is more modern too, with pizzas often on the menu.

Definitely try their hot chocolate as well on cold beach days – it was bigger than my head.

Samuel Jones, Exeter

Sat on the edge of Exeter Quay, you will find the stylish pub Samuel Jones.

Inside, the decor features a more industrial style fitting in with the rest of the Quay.

In addition to serving their award-winning ales, the venue also broadcasts live sports.

Victoria Inn, Salcombe

Salcombe is loved for many reasons, drawing in hoards of tourists each year, but the Victoria Inn is another reason to love it.

Just a short walk from the banks of the Kingsbridge Estuary, the Victoria Inn is full of cosy corners and a log fire.

On Sundays the pub hosts bingo, which is always a laugh.

And when it comes to the menu, sharing boards are a great option for a lunchtime sit down after exploring the town.

The Waterman’s Arms, Totnes

The Waterman’s Arms in Totnes feels like being in a fairytale storybook.

The pub sits right at the riverside, by Bow Bridge.

In the evenings, the 17th century watering hole often hosts candlelit dinners but if you are there in the day and it happens to be sunny, do not miss the garden terrace.

Kids also eat free during half-term!

Old Fire House, Exeter

The Old Fire House in Exeter is a super popular spot and with good reason.

The boozer is inside an old 19th century firehouse with a vaulted wooden-beamed ceiling and exposed stone walls.

This spot is especially loved for its late-night events with a good atmosphere and oversized 14-inch square pizzas.

You dog is allowed to come too…

Tinpickle And Rhum, Dartmoor

Tinpickle and Rhum is a gastropub located at the The Moorland Hotel by Haytor, on Dartmoor.

Inside the interiors feel a little luxury with rustic wooden cladding on the walls which match the tables and giant modern chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

Don’t miss their All Three Roasts for £23.95 with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, cheddar cauliflower cheese, season’s best vegetables and red wine gravy.

Head to the pub after a walk up to Haytor Rock, which is one of the most popular spots on the Moors for its breathtaking views and unique rock formations.

The Highwayman Inn, Sourton

Despite not having visited yet, I couldn’t miss out the quirky Highwayman Inn near Sourton.

Often dubbed Britain’s most unusual pub, The Highwayman Inn features its own minotaur and has a layout that is more like a maze.

The boozer dates back to the 13th century and inside it is full of unusual objects to feast your eyes on.

The Pilchard Inn, Burgh Island

Dating back to the 14th century, The Pilchard Inn offers amazing views of the sea and crashing waves.

It is actually one of England‘s oldest pubs, according to its website.

And to get to the pub you can either walk across at low tide, taking around 10 minutes or at high tide, hop on the sea tractor costing between £2 and £3 a way.

In other pub news, here are 10 of the UK’s cosiest pubs with bed and breakfast from £99.

Plus, Britain’s smallest town named one of the coolest spots in the country with cosy pubs and coastal walks.

A PICTURESQUE riverside town in Essex has been named one of the coolest destinations in the country.

Manningtree in Essex is known for being the smallest town in Britain, but this gem of a spot has a lot packed within it.

According to The Sunday Times, Manningtree is best “for the Essex girl 2.0″ with “understated charm, overwhelmingly indie high street and stellar sunsets”.

The town, which is sat on the River Stour, is believed to get its name from ‘many trees’ and is within a short distance of the Dedham Area of Natural Beauty making it an ideal base for walks and cycling.

In the town itself there are lots of Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Matching its tiny size, the town also has a tiny beach – Manningtree Beach.

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One recent visitor said: “Beautiful area for both sunrise and sunsets.

“Plenty of free easy parking right by the river side.

“Walk into town grab some food and then sit on one of the many benches and watch the sun go down.”

The town is also ideal for a coastal walk, and if you want to grab a bite to eat, head to Italian restaurant Lucca, which serves wood-fired pizzas and classic pasta dishes.

Just outside of Manningtree you will find Mistley Towers, which were designed by Robert Adams.

The towers were originally a parish church that was built in the 18th century in a Georgian style, but today only the two towers remain.

The town has a number of independent shops to explore as well.

And then there’s Manningtree’s oldest pub – The Red Lion – which has a cosy atmosphere inside with a roaring fireplace.

Customers can even bring their own food to the pub, whether that be fish and chips, Indian, Chinese or even pizza and then cutlery is provided free of charge.

All you need to do is order a tipple.

Many of the local takeaways will even deliver directly to the pub.

The pub also hosts an array of events including open mic nights, comedy shows, craft sessions and Six Nations nights.

One recent visitor said: “I adore The Red Lion, it’s my go to place if I want a cheeky beer/cider or what have you – with friends or on my own.

“Always a lovely welcoming and friendly atmosphere.”

If you fancy something a little different, Visit Essex has a self-guided tour that you can follow inspired by the 17th century East Anglian witch trials.

During this period, around 300 people were tried for witchcraft and 100 were executed as they were believed to be ‘witches’.

There are a couple of places to stay too including The Crown Pub and Hotel.

Inside, guests will find four rooms, each with its own elegant style.

The rooms are also dog-friendly and cost from around £110 per night.

The city of Colchester is just a 23-minute drive away as well, where you can explore Colchester Castle or head off on a historic walking tour.

For more on places to visit across the UK, here are 17 of the UK’s best hidden gems to visit in 2025, according to our travel experts.

Plus, here are five top hidden gem attractions in the UK according to experts from Venetian palaces to hidden gold mines.

The Mirror’s data team has crunched the numbers and found where in the country has the highest concentration of pubs – see if your hometown has made the cut in our rankings

The pub capital of the UK has been crowned, and it’s a beautiful part of the country with cosy inns and rolling hills.

It’s been a rough year for the pub trade. Many are facing increasingly tricky futures. A report by UK Hospitality has warned that six venues will close every day this year without support – a total of more than 2,000. That far outstrips the 378 that closed in 2025, according to the Institute for Licensing. The British Beer and Pub Association worries pubs will need to sell an extra 1.3 billion pints of beer a year to offset surging taxes.

However, as gloomy as the overall picture is, there are still thousands of incredible pubs across the country, and areas where the trade is, if not booming, then thriving in a relative sense.

The Mirror’s data team has crunched the numbers and found that the drinkers in the Derbyshire Dales are more well stocked with pubs than anywhere else in England and Wales. The rural council has a total of 152 pubs and bars within its borders, according to our analysis of government data.

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That works out as the equivalent of 25 for every 10,000 adults living there.

That’s the highest rate for any local authority in England and Wales, excluding two areas where extremely low population numbers skew the figures – the City of London (188 pubs and bars, equivalent to 132 per 10,000 adults) and the Isles of Scilly (six pubs, equivalent to 29 per 10,000).

Westminster has the next highest number of pubs relative to its drinking-age population. The London borough’s 407 boozers works out as 23 for every 10,000 resident adults.

Powys also has 23 per 10,000 adults with a total of 259 pubs.

That’s followed by Pembrokeshire with 21 per 10,000 adults, then four council areas with 18 pubs for every 10,000 adults – Westmorland and Furness, North Yorkshire, Gwynedd and Ceredigion.

You can see how many pubs there are for every 10,000 adults in each council area in the country by using our interactive map.

London councils fill the top 10 list of areas with the most pubs relative to their geographic size.The City of London’s 188 pubs and bars works out as the equivalent of 169 for every square mile (with the area famously known as “the Square Mile” being slightly larger than a square mile).

Westminster’s 407 pubs is equivalent to 49 every square mile. In Islington, there are 40 pubs every square mile, while in both Camden there are 29, in Hackney 22 and in both Kensington and Chelsea and Hammersmith and Fulham there are 20 every square mile.

Liverpool has the highest density of pubs outside of London. The city’s 502 boozers works out as nearly 12 for every square mile, the 11th highest ratio in England and Wales.

Manchester’s 432 pubs work out at nearly 10 per square mile. Portsmouth’s 139 pubs are nine per square mile, Blackpool’s 114 pubs are also nine per square mile, Norwich’s 127 are eight per square mile, as are Brighton’s 244 pubs and Bristol’s 321.

Wales and England’s 25 pub capitals

1. Derbyshire Dales
2. Westminster
3. Powys
4. Pembrokeshire
5. North Yorkshire
6. Westmorland and Furness
7. Gwynedd
8. Ceredigion
9. Carmarthenshire
10. Staffordshire Moorlands
11. South Hams
12. Denbighshire
13. Monmouthshire
14. North Devon
15. Cotswold
16. East Lindsey
17. West Devon
18. High Peak
19. Malvern Hills
20. Herefordshire, County of
21. Shropshire
22. Isle of Anglesey
23. Calderdale
24. Great Yarmouth
25. Amber Valley

A Cotswolds local has shared her five favourite spots to go for a bite to eat when you’ve completed your long country walk and need something hearty and delicious

Who can resist a hearty pub lunch after a refreshing walk, soaking up the stunning natural beauty around them? It’s simply an unbeatable experience.

It feels like a well-earned treat, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes after a good bout of exercise. That’s why a local woman from the Cotswolds has shared her top picks for a pub lunch if you’re visiting the area, but she warns that you “must” book in advance to avoid disappointment. Ali listed five of her favourite local eateries, all of which sound absolutely delightful and are worth checking out sooner rather than later.

1. The Kingham Plough, Kingham

Ali enthused: “My all-time favourite pub in the Cotswolds. Incredible roasts, consistently great food, faultless service and one of the prettiest villages around.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely dinner with family and friends. The food, especially the more sophisticated dishes, was very good, the ambience pleasant, and the service enjoyable.”

2. The Lamb, Shipton-under-Wychwood

“Outstanding food and such good value evenings (think chicken night, curry night, etc). They also own a few other brilliant Cotswolds pubs that are just as good,” Ali noted.

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “Roast Chicken – best I’ve ever had (obviously apart from my wife’s and mother’s). It’s really very exceptional. I would go as far as saying I would travel to the Lamb just to eat the roast chicken. Fabulous deal on Thursdays – an entire roast chicken plus trimmings for £30.”

3. The Fox at Oddington, Oddington

Ali praised it, writing: “A Daylesford-owned pub and a local favourite – especially on Thursday nights. Amazing pizza, beautiful interiors and a great atmosphere.”

One glowing Tripadvisor review gushed: “Wow! What a pub… the vibes are on point as soon as you walk in the door. We went on a busy Friday evening without a booking, and after having a drink in the bar, we were seated at a table by James, who was an outstanding host!”

“The food was absolutely superb, we had steak tartare, and the nduja scotch egg for starters, both amazing, then had the Fox double burger and beef bourguignon.

“Hands down the best burger I have ever tasted, and the beef was amazing, both were generous portions, great value for money. The service was great the whole time. Shout out to James, who was great to chat with and looked after us!”

4. The Bull, Charlbury

Ali described it as: “Recently named one of the best pubs in the UK. The menu might look a little intimidating, but trust me – the food is fantastic. Pie night every Thursday.”

One Tripadvisor reviewer shared: “We had a great lunch at The Bull! It is somewhat full of Londoners in rust-coloured corduroy, but that didn’t spoil what was a lovely lunch!”

“You do need to book as it’s extremely popular. Be prepared that it is incredibly dark with only candles for lighting, but all in all, we had a lovely meal – the plates are small, but deceivingly filling! The staff are really nice, and the atmosphere is cosy, lighthearted and easy.

“One word of caution – if you order a Bloody Mary, it may blow your head off!”

5. The Chequers, Churchill

Ali said: “Clarkson’s local and currently undergoing a refurbishment. Reopening mid-March in a stunning village location – one to watch for great food and atmosphere.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely meal at The Chequers. The food was genuinely excellent – fresh, well-cooked, and full of flavour, with a great menu choice. What really stood out, though, was the staff. They were incredibly attentive without being overbearing, friendly, and made us feel very welcome throughout our visit.

“Everything came out promptly, and nothing was too much trouble. It’s clear they really care about the quality of both the food and the customer experience. We’ll definitely be returning and would happily recommend The Chequers to others.”

Which pub would you fancy visiting if you found yourself in the Cotswolds? Share your thoughts in the comments below…

A Cotswolds local has shared her five favourite spots to go for a bite to eat when you’ve completed your long country walk and need something hearty and delicious

Who can resist a hearty pub lunch after a refreshing walk, soaking up the stunning natural beauty around them? It’s simply an unbeatable experience.

It feels like a well-earned treat, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction that comes after a good bout of exercise. That’s why a local woman from the Cotswolds has shared her top picks for a pub lunch if you’re visiting the area, but she warns that you “must” book in advance to avoid disappointment. Ali listed five of her favourite local eateries, all of which sound absolutely delightful and are worth checking out sooner rather than later.

1. The Kingham Plough, Kingham

Ali enthused: “My all-time favourite pub in the Cotswolds. Incredible roasts, consistently great food, faultless service and one of the prettiest villages around.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely dinner with family and friends. The food, especially the more sophisticated dishes, was very good, the ambience pleasant, and the service enjoyable.”

2. The Lamb, Shipton-under-Wychwood

“Outstanding food and such good value evenings (think chicken night, curry night, etc). They also own a few other brilliant Cotswolds pubs that are just as good,” Ali noted.

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “Roast Chicken – best I’ve ever had (obviously apart from my wife’s and mother’s). It’s really very exceptional. I would go as far as saying I would travel to the Lamb just to eat the roast chicken. Fabulous deal on Thursdays – an entire roast chicken plus trimmings for £30.”

3. The Fox at Oddington, Oddington

Ali praised it, writing: “A Daylesford-owned pub and a local favourite – especially on Thursday nights. Amazing pizza, beautiful interiors and a great atmosphere.”

One glowing Tripadvisor review gushed: “Wow! What a pub… the vibes are on point as soon as you walk in the door. We went on a busy Friday evening without a booking, and after having a drink in the bar, we were seated at a table by James, who was an outstanding host!”

“The food was absolutely superb, we had steak tartare, and the nduja scotch egg for starters, both amazing, then had the Fox double burger and beef bourguignon.

“Hands down the best burger I have ever tasted, and the beef was amazing, both were generous portions, great value for money. The service was great the whole time. Shout out to James, who was great to chat with and looked after us!”

4. The Bull, Charlbury

Ali described it as: “Recently named one of the best pubs in the UK. The menu might look a little intimidating, but trust me – the food is fantastic. Pie night every Thursday.”

One Tripadvisor reviewer shared: “We had a great lunch at The Bull! It is somewhat full of Londoners in rust-coloured corduroy, but that didn’t spoil what was a lovely lunch!”

“You do need to book as it’s extremely popular. Be prepared that it is incredibly dark with only candles for lighting, but all in all, we had a lovely meal – the plates are small, but deceivingly filling! The staff are really nice, and the atmosphere is cosy, lighthearted and easy.

“One word of caution – if you order a Bloody Mary, it may blow your head off!”

5. The Chequers, Churchill

Ali said: “Clarkson’s local and currently undergoing a refurbishment. Reopening mid-March in a stunning village location – one to watch for great food and atmosphere.”

A recent Tripadvisor review reads: “We had a lovely meal at The Chequers. The food was genuinely excellent – fresh, well-cooked, and full of flavour, with a great menu choice. What really stood out, though, was the staff. They were incredibly attentive without being overbearing, friendly, and made us feel very welcome throughout our visit.

“Everything came out promptly, and nothing was too much trouble. It’s clear they really care about the quality of both the food and the customer experience. We’ll definitely be returning and would happily recommend The Chequers to others.”

Which pub would you fancy visiting if you found yourself in the Cotswolds? Share your thoughts in the comments below…

Tbut there are still some places where you can get a drink for less than £5.

The cost of a pint continues to creep upwards. Tracking down a boozer flogging pints for under a fiver has become nearly impossible, yet certain spots still won’t leave your wallet crying.

A report from takepayments has uncovered which UK cities offer the most wallet-friendly drinking experience. The research examined 34 major UK cities against 16 affordability measures, encompassing housing, transport, wages, and discretionary spending (such as the cost of a pint).

Each location received a score out of 10 for overall affordability, identifying where Brits can enjoy the cheapest tipple.

Derby emerged as the nation’s most affordable city for a beverage, with pints priced at a mere £3.60. That’s a bargain when you fancy unwinding after a day discovering what the city has to offer – and there’s loads to see.

Situated in the East Midlands within Derbyshire and hugging the River Derwent, Derby serves as an ideal starting point for venturing into the picturesque British countryside, boasting numerous walking routes and cycling trails, reports the Express.

Among the finest is the Vicar Wood & Mackworth loop accessible from Markeaton Park. This 6.1km ramble takes roughly 90 minutes, beginning at the Mundy Playcentre car park.

Winding through farmland and parks, it’s ideal for families. There’s also Calke Abbey – a dilapidated stately home boasting sprawling gardens and a remarkable natural history collection.

Originally an Augustinian Priory, the property was acquired by Sir Henry Harpur in 1622. The estate remained in the family for generations, and from 1924 onwards, Calke was left largely untouched, though it underwent gradual modernisation.

Today, the National Trust has preserved the house much as it was, offering a fascinating glimpse into life from a bygone era.

After exploring the residence and grounds, visitors can stop by the on-site cafe and gift shop – ideal for picking up mementos.

Stylish lakeside huts in Somerset

Six vintage-style “luxury huts” spaced out around a lake make up The Shepherds Hut Retreat in south Somerset. They have modern kitchens and bathrooms, private areas with hot tubs, and fancy features such as telescopes, gin bars, pizza ovens, fire pits and hammocks. There is also a woodland sauna on site. The newest hut, 1898, is the grandest, and is inspired by the Pig hotels. It is a mile’s walk to the Lord Poulett Arms, a thatched 17th-century pub in the village of Hinton St George, and half an hour’s drive to the beaches of the Jurassic Coast in east Devon and Dorset.
From £169, coolstays.com

A Jacobean manor in Kent

Boys Hall, a gorgeous Jacobean manor house near Ashford, is now a restaurant with rooms. The pub area has comfy chairs and a wood burner; lounges with inglenook fireplaces, sofas and books; there’s more than a hectare (2½ acres) of grounds, including a rose garden. The restaurant is a light, oak-framed space serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, including a weekly changing set menu of Kentish produce (three courses for £30; perhaps venison terrine, braised beef cheek stew and winter berry trifle). The nine rooms feature original stone mullion windows, oak panels and beams, plus rolltop baths and four-poster beds.
From £220 B&B, boys-hall.com

A fairytale farm cottage in the Malvern Hills

Wishbone is a 16th-century, fairytale cottage hidden away on an ancient fruit farm. The stone and timber barn is half-covered by foliage on the outside, but the inside has been beautifully restored and converted. There is a vaulted ceiling above the open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas, a bedroom with a king-size bed and an en suite shower room. Original wattle and daub panels, brick floors and beams add to the charm, and barn doors open on to the patio. Beyond the orchard in front of the cottage are fields with oak trees and a lake.
From £850 for two nights, uniquehomestays.com

A thatched pub in Bedfordshire

A small village in the Yorkshire Dales is just as picturesque as it is welcoming, especially when it comes to good food and drink.

Tucked away amidst the breathtaking greenery of the Yorkshire Dales lies a charming grey stone village that serves as an excellent launching pad for countryside expeditions.

Boasting numerous campsites, Kettlewell provides the perfect pit stop for keen ramblers and explorers seeking somewhere to put their feet up and enjoy quality food and refreshments.

The village features three historic inns – a testament to its previous role as a key transport centre – which continue to operate as pubs today.

One visitor described it as having “views beyond compare” in a TripAdvisor review. They said: “Driving around the dales was an absolute delight; we had to keep stopping to take piccies of stunning scenery. Any town or village is worth visiting.”

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Another shared: “Beautiful village with 3 amazing pub restaurants and two tea rooms. The properties and scenery are amazing. We have stayed on 4 occasions over the years and plan on another visit soon.”

Dining Options

What secures Kettlewell’s special place in walkers’ affections is its array of dining and drinking establishments. The Blue Bell stands as the oldest, positioned at the village centre beside the water.

Complete with crackling log fires and exposed timber beams, this traditional pub offers travellers a perfectly pulled pint year-round. Their menu features classic pub fare including fish and chips and humble pies – ideal for recharging following an extensive day’s hiking.

Sitting alongside them are the village’s two other beloved watering holes, The Kings Head and Racehorses Hotel, an 18th-century establishment that has retained its character throughout the decades.

However, it’s actually the Kings Head that claims the top spot for dining on TripAdvisor, with patrons describing it as a “proper Dales pub”.

One review said: “We’ve been to this pub several times over the last few years. It’s compact and very cosy; it can get crowded with only 20 or 30 visitors, but that’s one of the things we love about it. The locals are friendly; they love this place and are very welcoming to everybody who supports it.”

The culinary delights don’t end there, as this peaceful village boasts two charming cafes as well, with the more traditional option being The Cottage Tea Room. A few streets away sits And Then – Tasting Deli, praised by guests for its “outrageously good coffee” and warm hospitality.

One customer said: “We visited a couple of times during our stay in Kettlewell and were impressed with the quality of the food and drink, and we found the service very friendly from the owner and all the staff.”

They added: “Prices were reasonable given how good everything was, and we enjoyed our visits sat in by the cosy log burner. Our takeout Wensleydale sandwiches were top-notch too!”.

Summit

Right on its doorstep lies an extensive selection of rambles through the stunning Dales, yet the most popular route from Kettlewell remains the trek to Great Whernside. This peak’s highest point looms majestically over the village and attracts keen walkers from across the nation.

It wasn’t until 1997 that public access to the summit was officially established, leading to the construction of two footpaths reaching the top. One route starts directly from Kettlewell, whilst the other follows along the summit ridge.

The challenging walk can take up to four hours, though the route is clearly marked with well-defined footpaths and signage throughout the ascent. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find yourself at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet.

Part of Yorkshire’s tourist attractions is the ‘Dales 30’ – a collection of 30 mountains with some exceeding 2,000 feet in height, and this happens to be amongst them. Though the climb shouldn’t be mistaken for Whernside, which forms one of Yorkshire’s three highest peaks, located on the Cumbrian border.

The Derbyshire village is home to the UK’s only six-sailed stone tower windmill and three traditional pubs, making it an ideal countryside destination

Nestled peacefully between Ripley and Belper lies a delightful village offering far more than initially apparent for a perfect day out.

Heage is most famous for its windmill, but attracts plenty of visitors to its classic pubs, located within half an hour of Derby city centre. It’s a perfect location for an afternoon wander, with several opportunities to stop off for a pint or some hearty pub fare.

The distinctive name originates from the Anglo-Saxon term ‘Heegge’, meaning high or lofty, reflecting its agricultural heritage. The village is divided into two parts, Heage and Nether Heage, though neither has a traditional ‘centre’ and largely comprises houses dotted along country lanes, with the windmill standing peacefully on the outskirts.

Windmill

At the village’s core stands its windmill, remarkable not only for its construction, which commenced in 1791, but also for its six-sailed stone tower. It’s the sole remaining windmill of its type in the whole country and attracts visitors eager to witness this historic landmark.

The magnificent mill operated right through until 1919, when damage necessitated extensive restoration work. Each sail reportedly weighs one tonne, whilst the tower itself is constructed from robust local sandstone.

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In 1965, it finally received ‘listed status’ and remains carefully maintained, having undergone significant structural beam repairs in 2003. A recent visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor: “Brilliant visit to Heage Windmill; learnt such a lot and got to have a go with the sails!

“The team here has a fabulous knowledge of what it was like being ‘Windy Miller’ back in the day, and we even came away with some flour from the actual mill. Cannot recommend highly enough.”

Another guest commented: “This really is a wonderful place to visit. Beautifully preserved and so well looked after. The very kind people running the mill were so kind to watch our dogs while we had the pleasure of such a great tour and demonstration.”

Pubs

The village of Heage boasts three pubs – The Eagle Tavern, The Black Boy and The Spanker Inn, all within easy walking distance. Nestled in the heart of Heage, between the other two, is the Black Boy, which one patron described as being “a lovely place.”

They commented: “Locals, visitors, ramblers and even dogs – just as a pub should be! The food was lovely and very fresh. Would recommend.”

Others enjoy drinking pints at the Spanker Inn, a “brilliant little pub” beloved by locals, which is due to welcome new owners. One diner shared: “We stayed nearby on holiday. We visit this area about twice a year and always go to the Spanker for a meal.

“We are never disappointed. Plenty of choice on the menu, good prices and good food. Good atmosphere and service.”

For a vibrant ambience featuring regular live music and an authentic village atmosphere, the Eagle Tavern serves as a community focal point. Quiz nights, special events and live sports screenings attract visitors from throughout the surrounding area seeking quality entertainment alongside quality ale.

Guests have praised it as a “warm and welcoming pub” boasting a “lovely” outdoor seating space perfect for sunny days. When visiting the windmill, it’s tempting to hop between these charming local establishments.

Morley Park

Nestled within Heage village is Morley Park, a site of considerable historical importance, having once been among seven Royal parks within the Duffield Frith. This extensive forest served as an enclosed hunting and grazing ground under Royal ownership.

Throughout the industrial revolution, it transformed into a significant ironworks location, featuring blast furnaces now designated as Grade II listed structures. The two striking stone furnaces still tower at approximately 40 feet following restoration work in 1986, and can be located near the A38.

A charming UK market town boasts, historic pubs, Europe’s largest secondhand bookstore, and affordable three-bedroom homes from £160,000 – as well as Harry Potter links

Nestled in the Northumberland countryside lies a delightful market town, brimming with winding cobbled streets that lead to eccentric bookshops, independent boutiques, and snug cafés.

A bi-weekly market continues to draw visitors, while an imposing castle and steam railway keep the town’s intriguing history alive.

Despite its allure, Alnwick in Northumberland was often bypassed as a tourist spot until its castle featured in a globally renowned film. Alnwick Castle morphed into Hogwarts for the Harry Potter films, with Quidditch matches shot on its outer green and memorable scenes like the flying car crash unfolding within its grounds.

Regardless of whether you’re a Harry Potter fan, Alnwick Castle is a must-see. Dating back to the 12th-century, this majestic edifice is the second largest inhabited castle in England after Windsor, opening its gates to the public during the summer months.

In the town centre, remnants of Alnwick’s fortifications can be seen in the town walls, erected in the 15th century for protection. Bondgate Tower, with its robust stone walls and narrow tunnel, was heavily guarded during wartime.

However, while it served a purpose centuries ago, in today’s world, it tends to cause traffic congestion as only one vehicle at a time can navigate through its tight passage.

Harry Potter isn’t the only literary link the town can claim. It’s also home to Barter Books, one of Europe’s largest secondhand bookshops, housed within a former railway station.

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Among countless shelves of books, visitors will discover armchairs and crackling fireplaces, creating an inviting spot to while away an afternoon. Meanwhile, rival shop The Accidental Bookshop boasts what it claims is Britain’s tallest bookshop bookshelf, meaning staff assistance may be required for anything perched at the top.

Alnwick features numerous delightful independent shops tucked along the town’s winding narrow streets. Markets take place on Thursdays and Saturdays, with a well-attended farmers’ market on the final Friday of each month.

The cobbled Market Place transforms into a bustling hub of vibrant stalls offering fresh produce, flowers, crafts and food, with numerous vendors selling locally-made Northumberland goods.

An excellent way to explore the surrounding countryside is aboard the Aln Valley Railway, which operates seasonally. Comprising restored diesel and steam locomotives, it transports passengers on a 30-minute journey through lush landscapes.

Alnmouth Beach sits just 15 minutes away by car, offering an extensive sandy shoreline that welcomes dogs and provides various walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. After a full day of sightseeing, Alnwick boasts plenty of traditional, welcoming pubs where visitors can settle in for a pint or a hearty meal.

Despite its somewhat off-putting name, Dirty Bottles has an intriguing backstory rooted in local folklore. Trapped between two window panes are some aged, dusty bottles.

According to legend, more than two centuries ago, a publican met his demise whilst tampering with these bottles, prompting his widow to declare that anyone who disturbed them would meet a similar end. Consequently, the bottles remain safely encased, allowing patrons to savour traditional British pub grub or relax in the sunny beer garden without any supernatural worries.

Real ale enthusiasts flock to The John Bull Inn, celebrated for its impressive whisky collection. Tucked away on a quiet residential lane, it’s a true hidden treasure.

The Plough is another essential stop for those who appreciate historic watering holes, and whilst the interior has been updated, the façade retains its stunning 19th-century stonework and ornate carvings.

One might expect that residing in such a delightful town would command premium prices, yet whilst the UK’s average house price hovers around £300,000, Alnwick offers numerous three-bedroom properties for under £200,000. Current Rightmove listings feature a terraced house at £160,000 and another property complete with garage and driveway for £189,950, significantly undercutting the national average.

Of course instead of committing to a full move, you can just book a short break and enjoy everything Alnwick has to offer. Sykes Holiday Cottages has a wide array of beautiful cottages in and around Alnwick, while Lastminute.com can be a useful source for cheap hotels from £36 a night.

The popular bar divides people on whether it is a good place to drink or not, so we’ve put it to the test – and found there was more to the area than just pubs

It seems to divide opinion like Marmite – to go or no go drinking in Temple Bar when in Dublin. The area is full of pubs keen to sell you drinks, especially Guinness, but at the highest prices in the city edging towards ten Euros for a pint.

On arriving in Dublin I was lucky enough to attend a connoisseurs session at the Guinness Storehouse and Morgan, our man serving us up a variety of VIP pints was clear to avoid Temple Bar.

“You don’t need to be going there,” he said, clear that it was a bit of a tourist trap. Most importantly, for him, that also meant it was not serving the best Guinness in the city. Morgan favoured pubs like The Lord Edward in the Liberties area and The Long Hall in the heart of the city centre. Over the river from Temple Bar, The Cobblestone is a great pub renowned for its traditional music too.

However Dublin tour guide Mary Phelan says whilst it should not be the only place you see in the city, there is no harm in going to Temple Bar for some drinks or at the very least a stroll. “Why not go and see it even if its just strolling the main street which brings you up towards Christ church,” she said.

Highlighting one pub on the edges if the area which is excellent and unusually named, she added: “Darkey Kelly’s is there too on Fishamble Street and bit less crowded than the rest. They do food and have some music. The Palace Bar is an original pub on Fleet St associated with writers and journalists as The Independent and The Irish Times newspapers used to be nearby.”

“There’s also the IFI (film institute)and you might like to see the area during the day. Merchants Arch brings you over Halfpenny Bridge and they also have an Icon Walk which is a wall giving you some info on writers and public figures.”

Temple Bar has been popular long before the pubs arrived. The Vikings set up camp there back in 795 AD, and the remains of their original defences can be found at Dublin Castle nearby.

The name of the area comes from British diplomat Sir William Temple who built a grand residence and gardens there in the early 1600s. After that the name stuck and so Temple Bar was born.

Officially the Temple Bar area is the square on the south bank of the River Liffey with streets shooting off in all directions and some narrow laneways taking you back out onto the river. By day it is less rowdy as Mary mentioned and there are boutiques and cafes which are busy as well as the pubs.

You also have Meeting House Square which has a stage for occasional screenings, and a weekly food market on Saturdays. It is surrounded by The National Photographic Archive and The Gallery of Photography (both free entry), and the Irish Film Institute.

But in truth it is in the nighttime the area comes to life, especially at the weekends. Temple Bar has the highest density of pubs of any area in Dublin, so there will be a buzz that many tourists will like and be happy to pay a premium for.

Live music and singalongs will be the norm and It will be lively, my message would be to also go further afield, it will be more authentic, better beer and also a lot cheaper.

For more information on visiting Dublin you can go to ireland.com

THE beautiful village of Dedham is getting a visit from royalty today.

King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit the pretty Essex village and pop into one of the country’s best pubs along the way.

The royal couple are heading through Dedham on their way to Colchester, to celebrate it being given city status two years ago.

The pretty Essex village is frequently named as being one of the most beautiful in the country thanks to its bright Tudor buildings, pretty high street and location on the River Stour.

The River Stour, which begins west of Great Bradley in Cambridgeshire and ends in the North Sea at Harwich, passes through the village.

It’s often used for canoeing and kayaking with picnickers sitting along the bank during the summer.

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Dedham village is found in the heart of Dedham Vale, which is known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Last year, Dedham was named as one of ‘Britain’s 30 greatest villages’ by The Telegraph where it called it ‘picturesque’.

In 2024, The Times called Dedham Vale one of the best “off-radar places to target if you are craving countryside without the crowds.”

During their visit, King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit the Sun Inn pub – which was on 100 best pubs by the Good Food Guide.

The pub sits along the main High Street and was formerly a coach inn – the 500-year-old building previously served as a vital resting point for travellers and horses.

Now, it serves up grub to visitors – the Sun Inn has a seasonal menu and is well-known for its hearty roast dinners.

According to the Good Food Guide it’s a place where you’ll get some of the tastiest food in the country.

On the Sun Inn, the Good Food Guide said: “As slices of English heritage go, Piers Baker’s 15th-century yellow-washed coaching inn right in the heart of Dedham is nigh-on perfect.

“There’s a sense of seasonality too in menus that offer a winning mix of updated pub classics and more inventive, Italian-accented dishes built around prime seasonal ingredients.”

On Sundays you can get one course for £25, two for £35 and three for £45.

Mains include roast rump of beef, pork loin and celeriac puff pastry pie – each comes with roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy.

Upstairs are seven bedrooms available for visitors to book – some are dog-friendly, and all have big beds and ensuite bathrooms.

A one-night stay in February costs £185 and comes with breakfast.

The royals aren’t the only well-known figures to have stepped inside the pub – it’s previously been visited by Sting and ex-footballer Frank Lampard.

From the Sun Inn, King Charles and Queen Camilla will head to the Essex Rose Teahouse.

Here you can get breakfast, lunch and of course an afternoon tea, which comes with a selection of freshly made sandwiches followed by homemade fruit scones for £25pp.

If you don’t fancy a whole afternoon tea – you can get a cream tea from £9.95pp.

Dedham is 9 miles away from Colchester which was given city status just two years ago as part of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

For more UK villages, here are five that will make you feel like you’re in The Holiday with cosy pubs and cottages.

And here are even more quaint British villages with toy-town cottages, car-free roads and cosy pubs – handpicked by our travel writers.

IN Arkengarthdale, North Yorkshire is the beautiful Charles Bathurst, the perfect cosy bolthole.

Here is everything you need to know including restaurant menus and room rates.

Where is the Charles Bathurst?

Nestled in the Yorkshire Dales, the Charles Bathurst is on the edge of the Pennine Way, so an ideal spot for walkers to stop at.

What is the hotel like?

The “CB” is essentially a village pub with stripped floors, wooden tables, open fires and a wide range of beers.

It gets its name from the 18th-century Lord of the Manor, who operated the local lead mines.

In a stunning location, it is the perfect stop after a long walk it is a great place to relax.

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Bring the pups too – it’s dog friendly.

What are the rooms like?

There are 19 en suite rooms that have been modernised for the thousands of tourists, especially walkers, who visit the area every year.

We took our five-year-old son and had a family room with a king-size bed and a fold-down sofa.

There was a modern bathroom, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, locally made shortbread in a jar and fresh milk in a fridge in the corridor.

Double and twin rooms start at £145 per night and include a full English breakfast. See cbinn.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink there?

There’s not another place to go to for food in the village, but that’s fine.

The pub does hearty Yorkshire food that while not the the cheapest, but faultless.

I had a smoked bacon loin with a fried egg, chips and salad for £15.95 and my husband had beer-battered fish and chips for £16.95.

It’s back to the bar for breakfast and that was a great spread.

You can help yourself to fruit, yoghurt, cereal and toast, plus they served up an amazing full English – the best sausages I’ve had in years.

What else is there to do there?

The small village was the backdrop for vet series All Creatures Great And Small as well as mini-series A Woman Of Substance.

Is it family friendly?

Yes, extra beds are bookable on request, and highchairs are available at the restaurant.

Is it accessible?

There is accessible access as well as five floors on the ground floor.

The beautiful village is perfect for a serene getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and rich rural history – and it’s been named one of the county’s ‘best kept’.

A hidden gem of a Lancashire village nestled on the northern shores of the River Ribble offers the perfect tranquil escape for anyone seeking to lose themselves in nature and centuries of countryside heritage.

Located a mere two miles north-west of Clitheroe in the breathtaking Ribble Valley, this picturesque village boasts everything you could wish for – a trickling stream, sweeping views of imposing fells, heritage sites, three highly-rated traditional pubs, cobblestone lanes and winding pathways, plus a captivating riverside garden that has earned the village numerous accolades through the years.

Set within the Forest of Bowland – designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1964 – strolling through this enchanting corner of the countryside whilst soaking up scenic vistas of striking fells, it’s easy to understand why this village has captured the affection of countless visitors.

The Lancashire village of Waddington derives its name from Wadda, an 8th-century Anglo-Saxon chieftain linked to the assassination of Northumbrian King Ethelred – just one glimpse into this charming settlement’s fascinating and layered past.

Having secured the prestigious ‘Best Kept Village in Lancashire’ award on multiple occasions, Waddington’s Coronation/Jubilee Gardens deserves much of the credit for this distinguished recognition, reports Lancs Live.

The public garden’s stunning sundial and vibrant floral displays are truly spectacular, and positioned alongside Waddington Brook, it serves as one of the village’s most popular attractions.

Created in 1953 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, the crowning glory of this award-winning garden is the rustic bridge erected in 2002.

Contributing to the village’s appeal and distinctive character, several properties benefit from having the Waddington Brook literally on their doorstep, with the picturesque stream running directly past their front doors.

The village boasts numerous significant historical landmarks including the 15th-century Anglican St Helen’s Church, Waddington Methodist Church, a magnificent 17th-century manor house known as Waddow Hall, and Almshouses initially built during the 1700s to accommodate widows of local dalesmen and farmers.

These almshouses were demolished and rebuilt beside the village green in the late 19th-century.

However, there’s more to Waddington’s story. The village has another notable distinction – Waddington Hall is renowned for sheltering King Henry VI for 12 months whilst he evaded his Yorkist adversaries, before his betrayal and capture in 1465.

The village also became the location for a 1990 ‘TV experiment’ when the now-defunct television channel established a studio in the village hall, broadcasting ‘hyper-local’ programmes featuring local stories from the venue for an hour each evening.

Consequently, Waddington Village TV proved enormously popular at the time. The closest train station to Waddington is located in Clitheroe, whilst the nearest bus station can be found in Whalley. The village is also readily accessible by road.

Trio of top-rated pubs

Waddington is also home to three highly-rated pubs – firm favourites amongst both locals and tourists.

The picturesque village nestled at the base of Waddington Fell houses the award-winning Higher Buck, a pub which appeared on Estrella Damm’s ‘Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK’ list in 2022.

Its outdoor seating area proves irresistible to travellers, with visitors unable to pass up enjoying a pint when the weather’s fine. Combine that with the exceptional food served at the establishment and you’ve discovered an unmissable culinary paradise.

Rounding off the trio are the Lower Buck Inn and the Waddington Arms, both offering delicious meals that pair perfectly with a satisfying pint. Situated right in the village centre, these two venues also provide accommodation for visitors.

The Lower Buck dates back to 1760 and takes pride in being a ‘traditionally traditional’ establishment, whilst the Waddington Arms is somewhat more sophisticated – and functions as a four-star hotel with an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor.

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Emigrating to sun-kissed Lanzarote might sound like a dream come true, but one British couple have confessed that they miss quite a few things from back home – including the weather!

Taking early retirement and leaving the soggy British winters behind forever is an impossible dream for many of us. But designers Richard and Tarnya Norse-Evans managed to do just that when they sold their business and relocated to the Canary Islands.

While they don’t regret making a new home for themselves in balmy Lanzarote, where the temperatures rarely drop into single figures, Richard and Tarnya say there are a few things they miss about chilly, rain-lashed Britain.

“When you live on a small island you need to see and do something different, because here you don’t get to go to the art galleries, visit people, go to the city or eat in different restaurants,” Richard told the i Paper.

He added that, while Lanzarote’s weather makes for a nice easy life there’s something to be said for a good old-fashioned chilly day. He said he sometimes feels nostalgic about the idea of “putting on a coat and Wellingtons and getting out in a forest for a good stomp and an English pint in a pub”.

While that’s a rare treat these days, it’s still a possibility. Because the cost of living in Lanzarote is much lower than in the UK, Richard and Tarnya can afford to splash out on an occasional flight back to Blighty for a taste of what they missing.

The pair also noted the struggles with the language barrier, and highlighted challenges in Spain with paperwork that meant long wait times for permits.

According to the most recent figures, between 6,200 and 6,500 British people are officially registered as residents in Lanzarote, making them one of the largest foreign populations on the island.

That number’s swelled massively in the summer, of course, when thousands more flock to the sun-kissed islands. Because the climate is so mild, there’s no real “low season” on Lanzarote, and holidaymakers are arriving at the island’ airport at any time of year. Tourism is the single biggest of the island’s economy.

Holiday rentals on Lanzarote grew by by 113% between June 2023 and December 2025. While there have been a few reports of extreme, violent anti-tourist hostility, they tend to be exaggerated, and the island remains generally welcoming to holidaymakers.

Richard and Tarnya have become part of that thriving industry, with a luxurious-looking Airbnb to supplement their lifestyle. “We certainly do not live a permanent holiday,” Richard said. “Work life still goes on regardless of the weather.”

They also own a vineyard that produces around 7,000kg of grapes a year, which they sell to a local wine producer.

And there are many kinds of business that simply aren’t available on Lanzarote – with Richard bemoaning the lack of variety when it comes to the arts and entertainment.

But luckily, he says there’s always the option of popping home for a taste of what he’s missing. He added: “With a four-hour flight we can be back in London quickly and enjoy the best of both worlds.”

WHO needs to hop over to France for some wine tasting when the UK is home to some that is better?

Kent is often called the Garden of England, and is home to many award-winning wines.

This has seen the opening of vineyard massively increase in recent years, with big names including Chapel Down and Balfour.

However, a small village that has remained off the beaten track is Braebourne.

With no nearby train stations – it sits between Ashford International and Westenhanger – it is often overlooked.

Yet is is home to Braebourne Vineyard, which offers unique wines such as a Pinot Noir.

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They’ve even won awards – the 2017 Blanc de Noirs and 2018 Classic Cuvée won silver in the WineGB Awards, while the 2019 Rosé de Noirs won Bronze

Visit in the summer and you can grab a seat within the vines, as well as enjoy flights of wines alongside some snacks or even go on a guided tour.

They recently also opened Fig Cottage, a cosy home than can be rented and overlooks the vineyard.

Otherwise just down the road is The Five Bells Inn, once named the best pub in Kent.

Both kid-friendly and dog-friendly, expect delicious menus that are everchanging, from charred corn and mushroom risottos to hearty burgers.

It has a huge pub garden in the summer too, with a shaded terrace and heaters for when the temperature dips.

You can stay here too, with rooms from £115 a night.

If you need to walk off all the wine and food, there are a number of great walks throughout the nearby North Downs villages as well.

Go off road or stay on the public footpath which goes through the nearby farmlands.

Trains to Ashford International take around 45 minutes from London, with taxis another 20 minutes to Braebourne.

Here’s another English village nearby that has one of the world’s best vineyards.

Or here’s how to find the “golden triangle” of vineyards in the UK.

The traditional Irish seaport village with a number of popular tourist attractions – and it’s easy to see it’s a firm favourite amongst visitors

The ideal base for those discovering the Wild Atlantic Way, this charming village isn’t just a feast for the eyes but also offers numerous tranquil retreats for a much-deserved rest.

Kinvara is a harbour village in County Galway, Ireland, that has preserved many Irish customs whilst welcoming visitors from across the globe. The main street boasts an array of delectable dining establishments and a lively pub culture, with many specialising in mouth-watering seafood, courtesy of its coastal position.

The brightly painted yellow bar and eatery called the Pier Head is particularly popular with residents. It’s joined by other outstanding venues including Keogh’s Restaurant, Connolly’s and The Glass Door – all boasting impressive TripAdvisor reviews.

Traditional Irish pubs throughout the village regularly feature live music alongside their warm, welcoming atmosphere. In keeping with Irish tradition, many pour a proper pint of Guinness alongside various regional beers in cosy surroundings. Enhancing that sense of community is the weekly Kinvara Farmers’ Market, taking place every Friday between 10am and 2pm.

Operating from March through October annually, it highlights regional produce allowing tourists to savour an authentic flavour of Ireland. As well as this, positioned on the village’s edge sits Kinvara Harbour, which forms the beating heart of this coastal gem.

Every year it plays host to the Cruinniu na mBad Festival, an event which honours the Galway hooker, a collection of traditional sailing vessels, and serves to preserve the village’s cultural legacy. One visitor revealed they could easily “sit there all day” gazing out across the waters.

They wrote: “This lovely little harbour is just the best! There are benches right along the grassy area alongside the harbour that you can sit on and enjoy the breeze, the sunset or sunrise and the movement and activity of the town.”

A favourite destination that draws many to the village is the remnants of the stunning Dunguaire Castle. The 16th-century tower house commands views over Galway Bay’s shoreline, providing breathtaking vistas and a pleasant stroll from the village centre.

In the 17th century ownership of the castle transferred to the Martyns of Galway and served as the home of Galway’s Mayor until 1642.

At present, while the castle’s exterior remains accessible to wandering visitors, the interior has been sealed off for several years due to safety concerns whilst awaiting refurbishment.

One recent guest posted on TripAdvisor: “A castle in a magnificent setting on the banks of Galway Bay, overlooking Kinvarra Town. You can even wander around the castle, but be cautious during the wet season. Although the castle is not open to the public, it is well worth a visit.”

Another commented: “We visited this castle during our tour in Ireland, and it was a stunning surprise. Just half an hour’s drive from Galway, this small castle is perfectly preserved and contains a detailed explanation of its history.”

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West Yorkshire’s Colne Valley is one of the region’s best-kept secrets for tourists and locals alike, with its scenic canal, artisan shops and traditional British pubs making it a real hidden gem to explore

Nestled in West Yorkshire’s Colne Valley, this delightful village boasts a well-deserved reputation for its scenic artisan boutiques, coffee shops, bars and selection of classic British pubs.

The canal-side mill village of Slaithwaite, locally pronounced as Slawit, is regarded as one of Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets – a genuine hidden treasure that largely remains undiscovered.

Despite being relatively unknown, it’s far from quiet; indeed, independent businesses flourish in this tight-knit community.

Originally established on the foundations of the textiles trade, a strong sense of craftsmanship still lies at the village’s core.

Thanks to its strategic position alongside the River Colne and Huddersfield Narrow Canal, it experienced significant growth during the nation’s 19th-century industrial revolution, with particular emphasis on wool and cotton manufacturing.

What attracts visitors to this quaint village is its diverse collection of unique shops and dining establishments.

The vibrant high street features Cobweb Antiques shop alongside an antiques warehouse and charming independent boutiques including Otso Clothing, Acorn and Pip, Every Cloud and SOS Interior and Gifts – providing an unparalleled shopping experience.

When you’ve had your fill of browsing, there are numerous spots to take a break and grab something to eat – you’ll be spoilt for choice in the village centre.

Whether it’s independent eateries such as Nom, Ruddi’s and the Cookhouse or classic boozers like the Old Mill and the Rose and Crown, visitors could easily while away an entire day sampling the culinary delights of Slaithwaite.

Based on TripAdvisor feedback, Vanilla Bean should top your list – a charming little café dishing up homemade sandwiches, quality coffees and artisan ice cream. One satisfied customer said: “I love Vanilla Bean. The staff are welcoming, friendly and helpful.

“The food is excellent, and the prices are affordable. The menu has plenty of choice, all of which is superb. “Really, one is spoilt for choice.”

The Black Bull, meanwhile, attracts locals and visitors alike with its traditional charm and inviting ambience.

A visitor said: “Called in for a bite to eat and at the outset, received a very warm and friendly welcome. This was entirely matched by the quality of the hand-pulled beers on offer, demonstrating that someone knew how to keep a good cellar. The delight continued when the meals arrived.”

Once a crucial artery of the Industrial Revolution, the village’s canal served to transport goods between the mills.

Today it provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely summer walk as it winds gently through the village, whilst the historic mills stand as lasting reminders of its prosperous past.

The Spa Mill on New Street remains a striking landmark, towering over the area since 1907, whilst Globe Mills on Bridge Street stands as an abandoned but intact mill complex.

Swaithwaite boasts several other listed structures, including a church dating back to the 13th century and an array of fascinating stone-built farmhouses and cottages scattered throughout the village.

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YOU can barely explore the Cotswolds without bumping into a famous face or two.

While not strictly true – the region stretches 800 square miles after all – it is certainly the spot outside of London which has the highest proportions of A-Listers.

The most popular place is Chipping Norton, with everyone from David Cameron to Jamie Oliver living nearby.

Yet many of them have chosen to live in the smaller villages to get away from any overzealous tourists wanting to catch them.

So here are some of the lesser-known villages which have welcomed famous faces over the years, as well as what to do in each destination.

Coates

Liam Gallagher is the latest celebrity to move to the Cotswolds, choosing Coates for his home.

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This is England’s ‘quiet corner’ overlooked in favour of the Cotswolds

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The lesser-visited Cotswolds town with one of the UK’s prettiest high streets

The tiny village doesn’t have any pubs or shops, but there is the nearby Coates Roundhouse, one of the few remaining on the River Thames, as well as the Sapperton Canal Tunnel.

Otherwise you will have to head to the the nearest pub just down the road, the Thames Head Wharf, or to Cirencester which is a 10 minute drive.

Great Tew

The Beckham’s famously live near Chipping Norton, but they are in the village of Great Tew.

Here you’ll find the 16th century Falkland Arms pub, which also is a four-star hotel.

And next door is the thatched roof Quince and Clover at Great Tew, for a tea and cake.

For other activities, just outside the village is everything from celeb-loved Soho Farmhouse, to clay pigeon shooting and flying schools.

Chadlington

Another member of the Chippy Crew, Jeremy Clarkson famously lives near Chipping Norton and the village of Chadlington.

It has the cosy Cafe de la Post, run by an Australian couple with freshly made pastries and breads, or The Tite Inn pub with a popular beer garden in the summer.

Pick up some bits from the local Chadlington Quality Foods deli, or hop down the road to Clarkson’s Diddly Squat.

Little Farringdon

Near Lechlade is the tiny village of Little Farringon – where model Kate Moss is said to love.

Due to its size, you won’t find much to do here. However, it is right by Horseshoe Lake, a massive water activity centre with everything from kayaking and sailing to swimming and paddleboarding.

For pubs, cafes and hotels, the town of Lechlade is a three minute drive – make sure to pop into the aptly named The Riverside pub for a pint and place to stay right by the water.

Bisley

Home of the former Rivals author Jilly Cooper until her death last year, Bisley is another small village off the beaten track.

The only thing to do in the village is head to the 17th century The Bear Inn pub, which has been praised for its old world vibes.

Time is right and you might stumble into their annual flower show, or annual music festival in the summer.

Chalford

The home of actor Jamie Dornan, the larger village of Chalford is to the west of the even bigger Cirencester.

Bizarrely, it has previously been compared to Switzerland due to its steep hills and alpine feel.

Otherwise there is RMC Retro, a technology museum with vintage consoles and arcades, as well as a number of art galleries.

Grab some fresh produce at the local Chalford Village Shop, before stopping for lunch at the Lavender Bakehouse & Coffee Shop.

This charming North Lincolnshire village offers the perfect day trip for nature lovers, with scenic estuary walks, three traditional pubs, and stunning Humber Bridge views

In the north of Lincolnshire sits a tranquil village offering the ideal retreat for waterside strolls leading towards the East Coast sea.

A gentle stream meanders through the village of Barrow upon Humber, flowing towards Barrow Haven and out into the estuary that connects to the North Sea. The charming little village is positioned just off the south bank of the Humber Estuary and is merely a quick train journey from beloved seaside spots including Cleethorpes and Grimsby.

What draws visitors to the area is the picturesque walking path, called the Barrow Haven and Humber Estuary trail. The route guides you across diverse landscapes, showcasing 1,000 years of heritage from Viking fortifications to Victorian architecture and, naturally, the updated wildlife reserve.

A tiny settlement beyond the village, Barrow Haven, is tucked along the Humber Estuary, serving as the historic ferry crossing and a location where vessels would dock.

Today it continues to be a beloved destination for wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience its thriving natural environment.

Particularly noteworthy, a favoured attraction for passionate walkers is the celebrated Humber Bridge, located just three miles away and a brief drive from Barrow upon Humber.

When it was built in 1981, the bridge represented a remarkable feat of 20th century engineering as the world’s longest single-span suspension bridge.

The sheer magnitude of the structure is hard to comprehend until you’re standing beneath it or strolling along it, a popular choice for those seeking a better view.

The iconic bridge links Barton on the South Bank with Hull on the North Bank, previously necessitating a lengthy and challenging detour.

Visitors have labelled the bridge as a “must-see”, with one individual declaring it their “favourite bridge”.

A TripAdvisor review says: “We parked at the viewing point and sat on a bench to take in the beautiful view of this bridge that crosses the Humber.

“Constructed in the 1980s, it’s possible to walk across it, and the toll for cars is £1.50. It was fascinating to see it up close and observe how quiet the traffic seemed.”

Within the village, there are three traditional pubs, all adored by locals, providing a snug spot to unwind during your Lincolnshire explorations.

The Royal Oak, Harrisons and Six Bells are practically adjacent to each other and within walking distance of The Haven Inn, nestled between the village and its neighbouring settlement, Barrow Haven.

A recent guest recounted their experience at the Inn, writing: “Lovely country pub and restaurant, excellent service and very pleasant staff who are efficient, food is hot and fresh , we all ate something different and every meal was very good, reasonably priced.”

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WATCHING sport in the pub, like queuing and putting the kettle on, is one of Britain’s great national pastimes.

And unless you’re going to the stadium, there’s no better place to catch the big match than down your local.

While loads of locals simply put the telly on in the corner, there are those venues who go that extra yard to make the big match experience a truly memorable one.

As The Thinking Drinkers – professional pub-goers and huge sports fans – we’ve picked the best sports pubs and bars across Britain.

Ranging from sizeable city centre sports outfits to historic pubs, quirky boozers and lovely locals – here’s where to go that even if you don’t like sport, you’ll have a good time.

Let’s find out who made the starting line-up in the Thinking Drinkers Sports Pub XI.

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The Famous Three Kings, West London

This London pub is rightly famous among fans of everything from football and rugby to ice hockey, Gridiron and even handball. 

Boasting 39 HD TV’s, access to hundreds of sports channels and an awesome audio setup with the ability to ‘zone’ sound and commentary of up to 6 games at once, it’s no surprise that it has won numerous industry awards. 

The King Street Brew House, Cambridge

This recently refurbished brewpub serves up loads of live sport alongside some decent drinks, including its own freshly brewed beers, and a cracking menu (including a curried lamb croissant).

If you’re in Cambridge, it’s certainly worth a punt.

Ye Olde King & Queen, Brighton

Situated a short stroll from the seafront, this vast grade-II listed Mock Tudor castle of sport is like being in the Traitors.

A huge protector screen dominates the main bar with TVs scattered everywhere showing all domestic and European footy action.

It even has its own bar dedicated to F1. 

The Royal Dyche, Burnley

Close to Turf Moor, home of Burnley FC, this now legendary local has become a football institution since renaming itself after ex-manager Sean Dyche who, back in 2018, secured European qualification.

It’s got stadium-seating in the garden, plenty of screens and there’s ‘claret’ everywhere (not blood or Bordeaux but Burnley FC memorabilia).

They also serve Benedictine – a French herbal liqueur loved by locals since it was famously drunk by soldiers of the East Lancashire Regiment during World War One. 

Perhaps not the best pub for Preston fans.

Brotherhood of Pursuits and Pastimes, Leeds

Like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, this illustrious Leeds city centre sports bar is a stylish looking fellow. 

Quality cocktails, fantastic food and a great 4K screen set-up and surround sound audio.

There’s not a single spot where you can’t clearly see and hear the action and, in the event of a sporting clash, they’ll dedicate areas of the bar to the different events. 

The Murderers, Norwich

One of Norwich’s oldest locals, and named after notorious murder of a former landlord’s daughter back in 1895, this makes for a great cosy pub to watch the game.

But thankfully, when there’s a big game on, that doesn’t dampen the lively match day atmosphere – enhanced by a well-kept range of real ales and numerous screens skilfully snuck into all the pub’s snugs, nooks and crannies. 

The Box, Manchester

With 35 top-of-the-range tellies this Deansgate venue doesn’t just have football but cricket, Gridiron, rugby, boxing and F1. 

Fairweather fans can occupy themselves with some shuffleboardor some ‘bandeoke’ – karaoke with a live backing band on stage.

The food’s good, there’s brewery fresh Budweiser Budvar on tap and two-pint Steins to swig.

Bloodsports, Central London

This down-to-earth dark, dimly lit dive bar and late-night hang-out has 30 screens showing a combination of live sports and horror flicks.

Open till 2am every night, it boasts Britain’s best ‘Bloody’ Mary menu, proper burgers and there’s even an Alfred Hitchcock’s Pyscho photo booth. 

Golaccio, Huddersfield

If Luciano Pavarotti belting out ‘Nessun Dorma’ brings a tear to your eye or you spent much of the 1990s watching Serie A on Channel Four, then get yourself down to this retro love letter to the golden age of Italian footy. 

Draped in old-school football shirts, scarves and posters from iconic Italian clubs, there are four large screens and a pull-down projector, banging Italian-inspired burgers and regular football quizzes. 

Ye Olde Golf Tavern, Edinburgh

This awesome Edinburgh boozer is perched on the edge of one of the oldest golf courses in the world, dating back to 1456.

So, when the final whistle blows on one of the bar’s many screens, you can hire a couple of clubs for a few quid and tackle 18-holes of pitch’n’putt.

Ludo Bar, Cardiff

This ‘tidy’ temple of televised sport only opened last October but it has already established a strong following among sports fans of all persuasions.

Grab a beer from a very respectable range of local breweries before sliding into a booth to watch your chosen match on request.

Or, alternatively, bask in the glow of the UK’s largest ultra high definition screen in the garden – complete with a retractable roof. 

There are even TVs in the toilets, which you won’t miss a moment of the game.

Ben McFarland & Tom Sandham, The Thinking Drinkers, recently rode a tandem bike from Land’s End to John O’Groats to ‘help save the British pub’. Watch the “Great British Pub Ride” on their YouTube Channel here.