Pubs

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.

COAST IT

Fascinating UK holiday spot with 2 coasts, secret seaside pools & hidden beaches

SHORE THING

‘It’s the best beach in England’ – Sun readers’ favourite Sussex seasides

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.

Read more on hotel reviews

INN AND OUT

The Holiday Inn, Cambridge hotel review

SUITE DREAMS

I tried the Premier Inn Mattress 2.0 — the answer to a hotel feel at home?

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.

Best Lancashire holiday cottage deals

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £42 a night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Lancashire is known for its wide open skies, stunning landscapes and lively coastal resorts. Sykes Cottages has a wide range of self catering accommodation across the county from £42 a night.

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.

PARK IN

English holiday village next to little-known theme park named one of the UK’s best

COR BLIGHTY!

I went to English vineyard that feels more like France with cheese experiences

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.”

Best UK holiday cottage deals

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

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.

Save on the best holiday cottages in Yorkshire

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £31 per night

Sykes Cottages

See the deals

Famous for its dramatic landscapes, historic cities, hearty food, and rich cultural heritage Yorkshire is just waiting to be explored. Sykes Cottages has a large number of properties to choose from with prices from £31 per night.

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.

Read more on the Cotswolds

WATCH IT

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

SHOW OFF

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.”

Best UK holiday cottage deals

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

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.

LAST ORDERS

Famous UK pub that’s served football fans for 140 years is shutting in HOURS

PINT SIZED

English pub that is the ‘world’s smallest’ is opening but only for Christmas

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.

The UK’s best gastropub has been crowned, beating off competition from thousands of venues. It’s a spot that’s much loved-by celebrities and famous for pouring the best Guinness in the country

The top gastropubs across the UK have been named, and the winner is a spot that has been enjoyed by many celebrities and was praised for its “premium quality, homemade food, focusing on the best of British produce”.

The Devonshire in Soho, which prides itself on offering a warm and welcoming vibe and has the style of a traditional British pub, took the number one spot in the new ranking. The venue sits on one of the lively neighbourhood’s narrow streets, amongst theatres, restaurants, and busy shops.

Downstairs is a wood-panelled bar which looks a lot like many of the historic pubs found in this part of the capital. Tourists and Londoners just finishing work crowd around the bar, often spilling out onto the street on sunny days, giving the pub a friendly, lively atmosphere.

READ MORE: I visited the most f****ed pub in my city – what’s happening is really sadREAD MORE: UK’s hidden coastal town that most tourists overlook because of iconic neighbour

What sets The Devonshire apart from other pubs in the area is its claim to serve the “perfect pint of Guinness”, with bar staff obsessed about getting the perfect pour. Its bar snack menu offers the chance to try the cuisine on offer, and includes snacks such as sausage on a stick, scotch eggs, and chips, among other British favourites.

Upstairs, the restaurant has a more upmarket vibe, and the handwritten menus feature seasonal specials and local ingredients. With an on-site butcher and baker on the team, you can be assured that everything is fresh and local. Highlights include Scottish beef, which is dry-aged and butchered on-site, and seafood from Devon, including lobsters and hand-dived scallops.

The Devonshire has gained a number of celebrity fans in recent years. Last summer, A-listers including Margot Robbie, Jon Bon Jovi, and Ed Sheeran were spotted among its diners. Yungblud and Florence Pugh even surprised punters by taking on duties behind the bar and having a go at pulling pints.

In second place was The Unruly Pig in Woodbridge, which, by contrast, sits among the Suffolk countryside. This 16th-century inn has a traditional pub vibe with wooden beams and a roaring fireplace, but adds a contemporary twist with colourful modern artworks on the walls.

The menu is a fusion of British and Italian cuisine, which they’ve dubbed ‘Britalian’, and uses fresh ingredients that are sourced locally whenever possible. In the bar, there’s a wide selection of craft beers as well as over 60 choices of wine and fizz to accompany your meal.

The menu changes monthly, and in addition to its a la carte selection, the restaurant offers a three-course lunch menu for £35pp, with a choice of three dishes per course. It also offers a popular Sunday lunch, where you can opt for a sharing roast platter for two or dishes such as iberico pork and parmesan gnocchi.

READ MORE: Saudi Arabia ‘scaling back 100-mile-long megacity to something “far smaller”‘ amid spiralling costsREAD MORE: Would you travel to the US on holiday right now? Have your say

Another London venue, The Red Lion & Sun, came in third on the list. The pub, set in leafy Highgate Village, has two beer gardens that are incredibly popular in the summer. And in fourth place was The Woolpack Inn, set in the quaint Cotswolds village of Slad, which offers real ales and hearty cuisine.

Full list of top 100 gastropubs in the UK

1. The Devonshire, Soho, London
2. The Unruly Pig, Woodbridge, Suffolk
3. The Red Lion & Sun, Highgate, London
4. The Woolpack Inn, Slad, Gloucestershire
5. The Star Inn, Harome, York
6. The Angel at Hetton, Hetton, North Yorkshire
7. Parkers Arms, Clitheroe Lancashire
8. The Rat Inn, Anick, Northumberland
9. The Rum Fox, Clitheroe, Lancashire
10. The Cornish Arms, Tavistock, Devon
11. Canton Arms, Stockwell, London
12. The Dog at Wingham, Wingham, Kent
13. The Abbey Inn, Byland, North Yorkshire
14. The Three Horseshoes, Batcombe, Somerset
15. The Broad Chare, Newcastle
16. The Gunton Arms, Thorpe Market, Norfolk
17. The Baring, Islington, London
18. The Merry Harriers, Hambledon, Surrey
19. The Fordwich Arms, Canterbury, Kent
20. The Bell, Langford, Oxfordshire
21. The Kentish Hare, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
22. The Crown, Burchetts Green, Berkshire
23. The Marksman, Hackney, London
24. The Hero, Maida Vale, London
25. The Kerfield Arms, Camberwell, London
26. The Sportsman, Seasalter, Kent
27. The Mariners, Rock, Cornwall
28. The Bull, Charlbury, Oxfordshire
29. The Coach, Marlow, Buckinghamshire
30. The Highland Laddie, Leeds
31. The Pipe and Glass Inn, South Dalton, East Yorkshire
32. The Silver Cup, Harpenden, Hertfordshire
33. The Waterman’s Arms, Barnes, London
34. Heft, High Newton, Cumbria
35. The Tamil Crown, Islington, London
36. Harwood Arms, Fulham, London
37. The Killingworth Castle, Woodstock, Oxfordshire
38. The Gurnard’s Head, St Ives, Cornwall
39. The Bull & Last, Highgate, London
40. The Kinneuchar Inn, Leven, Fife
41. The Tartan Fox, Newquay, Cornwall
42. The Queen of Cups, Glastonbury, Somerset
43. The Knave of Clubs, Shoreditch, London
44. The Mason’s Arms, Bampton, Oxfordshire
45. The Wild Rabbit, Kingham, Oxfordshire
46. The Black Bear Inn, Bettws Newydd, Monmouthshire
47. The French House, Soho, London
48. The Loch & The Tyne by Adam Handling, Old Windsor, Berkshire
49. The Shibden Mill Inn, Halifax West Yorkshire
50. The White Horse, Chester, Cheshire
51. The White Swan at Fence, Fence, Lancashire
52. The Cross at Kenilworth, Kenilworth
53. The Castle Inn, Castle Combe, Chippenham
54. The George, Kempsford, Fairford
55. The Hoop, Stock, Essex
56. The Scran and Scallie, Edinburgh
57. The Black Bull, Sedbergh, Cumbria
58. The Edinburgh Castle, Manchester
59. The Bull’s Head, Craswall, Herefordshire
60. The Camberwell Arms, Camberwell, London
61. The Parakeet, Kentish Town, London
62. The Boat, Lichfield
63. The Longs Arms, South Wraxall, Wiltshire
64. The Anchor and Hope, Southwark, London
65. The Pelican, Notting Hill, London
66. The Pack Horse, Hayfield, Derbyshire
67. The Drapers Arms, Islington, London
68. The Hand and Flowers, Marlow, Buckinghamshire
69. St Kew Inn, Bodmin
70. The Three Fishes, Mitton, Lancashire
71. The Bull Inn, Totnes
72. The Clarence, Glasgow
73. The Dog & Gun Inn, Skelton, Cumbria
74. Heathcock, Cardiff
75. The Fat Badger, Notting Hill, London
76. The Chagford Inn, Chagford
77. The Eagle, Farringdon, London
78. The Clarence Tavern, Stoke Newington, north-east London
79. The Five Elms, Weedon Aylesbury, Bucks
80. The Horseguards Inn, Tiilington, Petworth, West Sussex
81. The Oarsman, Marlow
82. The Two Pigs, Barton under Needwood, Burton on Trent
83. The Lady Mildmay, Newington Green, north-east London
84. The Royal Oak, Witney, Oxfordshire
85. The White Hart, Lydgate, Oldham
86. WildMoor Oak, Bromsgrove
87. The Double Red Duke, Clanfield, Oxfordshire
88. The Blue Stoops, Kensington, London
89. The Crown at Bray, Bray, Maidenhead
90. The Bucks Head, Sevenoaks, Kent
91. The Parlour, Kensal Rise, London
92. The Dog and Pickle, Essex
93. The Burleigh Arms, Cambridge
94. The Charlton Arms, Ludlow
95. The Suffield Arms, Gunton
96. The Hare & Hounds, Vale of Glamorgan
97. The Sun, Felmersham, Bedford
98. Pyne Arms, Barnstaple
99. The Standard Inn, Portscatho, Cornwall
100. The Swan, Bampton

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com