The Best Country Pubs In The UK

Found yourself searching for "lovely country pubs near me"? Along with Sunday roasts, cups of tea, and whinging about the weather, we've found some of our isle's most gorgeous boltholes. Fireplaces and pints of frothy ale are ingrained in our national culture, though with more than 50,000 pubs in the UK, the competition is tough. Whether you're looking to refuel after a bracing walk or searching for the best roast in a ten-mile radius, we've rounded up the UK's best country pubs that you need to visit.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 13th May 2025




Cambridge: The Tickell Arms

There's one problem with The Tickell Arms south of Cambridge, once you find it, you may never want to leave. The egg-shell blue building is hiding a treasure trove behind its doors, including a sculpted garden, grand dining room, stove fireplace, and quirky touches such as church pews for seating - easily making it one of the most romantic country pubs near you.

Arrochar: Village Inn

🍓 Upgrade your Afternoon Tea with Pimm’s this Summer ☀️

Situated in the heart of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Village Inn is a traditional Scottish boozer that boasts amazing views of the Arrochar Alps and Loch Long. Expect rustic wooden beams and comfy seating, decorated with pretty fairy lights to create a cosy atmosphere.

As for the menu, they serve everything from sumptuous Sunday roasts to steak and venison pie or plant-based burgers. Topping it all off? A selection of local ales, fine wines and whiskies.

Leighton Buzzard: Grove Lock

Perfect for watching barges float along the canal, this water-side cutie is a traditional boozer stocking Fuller's beers, including London Pride. Go for a stroll along the Grand Union Canal, before filling up with a crowd-pleasing menu of burgers, Sunday roast, and rich puddings.

Berkshire: The Crab & Boar

A Berkshire beauty if we ever did see one, The Crab & Boar is a gorgeous country pub sporting a roaring log fire, low-hanging lights and cosy sofas to snuggle up in. It's a tranquil and homely spot to enjoy a hearty Sunday roast or a couple of pints and bar snacks. Locally sourced and rich in flavour, the menu includes a mix of crowd-pleasing plates. Expect to tuck into the likes of Chalk Stream Farm trout gravadlax to start and traditional puddings like a warm jam roly-poly drizzled in 'proper' custard. 

Solihull: The Boot

If you're located in the Solihull area, be sure to take a trip to The Boot. This cosy, country pub is filled with rustic wooden furnishings and ceilings covered in beams, as well as comfy booth seating. That's not all though, as they've also got one of the best beer gardens around.

There are a wide variety of cask ales and fine wines available at the bar, sourced from all over the world. Feeling peckish? Tuck into everything from slow-cooked beef with parsnip puree to air-dried rump steaks and barbecue mushroom flatbreads.

Wiltshire: The King John Inn

If you're looking for somewhere cosy to stay that's on the border between Wiltshire and Dorset, we couldn't recommend The King John Inn enough. This quintessentially British spot is full of charm and kitted out with eleven boutique rooms sporting comforting furnishings. The menu is packed with hearty, elevated classics like ox cheek Wellington and twice-baked cave-aged cheddar soufflé served with spiced pear chutney, so you won't be going hungry.

Kent: The Woolpack Tenterden

Tucked away in the heart of Kent, The Woolpack Tenterden is a cosy country pub known as 'The Woolly' to locals. It features a collection of intimate, welcoming rooms perfect for an overnight stay, and a restaurant serving traditional comfort food. The 15th-century inn is also home to a spacious beer garden and a separate bar. On the menu? Burrata to start, Padron peppers, flat iron and mushroom duxelles, and a whole baked Camembert to share.

Frankby: Farmers Arms

One of the best pubs in the UK, Farmers Arms is bringing you a stunning lineup of delicious food and great drinks in a gorgeous setting. Located in Royden Park, near Liverpool, this fun spot promises an epic beer garden perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Mitre Dorset

A cut above the rest, Mitre is a cosy Shaftesbury high street watering hole oozing country charm with its bustling atmosphere, cheery bartenders and a wide selection of tipples including real ale, premium wine and fancy cocktails. Peek out back for a breathtaking view of the Blackmore Vale while you munch on some seriously delicious seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Peak District: The George

Longbow Venues, an independent hospitality group, proudly owns The George, a place where a true passion for the Peak District is celebrated. Located in Hathersage, this beautiful gastro pub and restaurant occupies a quaint building adorned with exposed stone and beams, honouring its rich history and heritage.

With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, The George offers a variety of regional craft beers, Derbyshire gins, and more. Menus crafted by Executive Chef Adrian Gagea and Head Chef James Heywood bring a modern twist to classic pub fare, featuring dishes like pomegranate-glazed beef short ribs, lamb with a parmesan and rosemary crust, and venison and chorizo burgers.

Woodstock: King's Arms

Set in the cute village of Woodstock, King's Arms is perfect for a mini break, with cosy upstairs rooms and a charming locals feel in the downstairs pub. When you're not busy snuggled up against the fire, wander around the area's antique shops or head over to the gorgeous Blenheim Palace.

Twyning: The Fleet Inn

Located in the picturesque village of Twyning in Gloucestershire, right on the banks of the river Avon, The Fleet Inn is a cosy country pub. Expect comfy booth seating, simple wooden furnishings and a rustic feel to the interiors.

It also boasts one of the best beer gardens in the whole country, complete with both open and covered tables and an amazing view over the water. As for the menu? Expect everything from Brixham fishcakes to streaky bacon burgers or fish and chips.

Berkshire: The Bird In Hand

The Bird In Hand is a cute pub and hotel that can be found in the heart of Knowl Hill, Berkshire. It features warm, 14th-century features and was once a former hunting lodge of King George III. Among rustic beams and oak furnishings, you'll find a cosy restaurant and bar, as well as 21 ensuite rooms to rest your head in. The boozer is both dog-friendly and family-friendly and has a crowd-pleasing menu focusing on seasonality, featuring the likes of steak, grilled halloumi and hot-smoked Chalk Stream trout Niçoise salad.

New Forest: Pilgrim Inn

Find this chocolate box-cute spot on the edge of the New Forest for classic food such as fish and chips and a top choice of real ale. And if you end up enjoying the thatched roof spot a little too much? You can also stay the night as this is one of the best country pubs with rooms.

Kent: The Windmill

The Windmill is a cosy pub offering a friendly vibe and delicious food. They use the freshest local ingredients to create a modern yet comforting menu, serving traditional Sunday lunches and summer BBQs in the stunning pub garden. Plus, you can stay the night in one of their newly renovated bedrooms for an authentic home-from-home experience.

Somerset: The Lamb Inn

At The Lamb Inn, the focus is firmly on fresh, locally sourced ingredients transformed into mouthwatering dishes that cater to all tastes. From pub classics done to perfection to seasonal specials that surprise and delight, this Somerset favourite has something for everyone.

Pair your meal with their curated selection of local ales, fine wines, or craft gins for an unforgettable dining experience in a setting that's as charming as the menu.

Somerset: The Ring O' Bells

Located in a charming Somerset village that's just moments away from Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake, you won't find a much more idyllic drinking spot than The Ring O' Bells. There's a spacious beer garden for the summer and a roaring fireplace for the winter, in a traditional venue that dates back to the 16th century. 

They host everything from quiz nights to live music here, which you can enjoy with an award-winning beer in hand. Plus, their extensive menu features the likes of buttermilk fried chicken burgers, roast squash and sage ravioli or pie of the week.

Chester: The Mill

A charming boozer on the outskirts of Chester, The Mill is a great choice for both cosy winter drinks and soaking up the sun during the summer. Expect a spacious, open-plan interior filled with comfy furnishings, as well as a relaxed beer garden filled with greenery.

They serve up a wide range of cask ales, lagers, wines and spirits. They've also got one of the most extensive food selections around, featuring everything from chicken tikka masala to steak and ale pie or Sri Lankan vegetable curry.

Hampshire: The Bourne Valley Inn

Situated in the charming Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne Valley, The Bourne Valley Inn is a top choice for countryside drinks and dining. This cosy space is decked out in rustic wooden furniture, beamed ceilings and pretty fairy lights, with nine bespoke bedrooms to boot.

The bar is serving up a wide range of award-winning beers, ales, wines and spirits, and there are plenty of pub classics on the food menu. Think pie of the week, tandoori chicken thighs, pant-based burgers and so much more.

Peak District: The Ashford Arms

Nestled in the picturesque Peak District village of Ashford in the Water, The Ashford Arms is a pub that lives up to its name. Just a few miles from Bakewell, it's the perfect spot whether you're looking for a refreshing pint after a walk, a cosy place to stay, or a satisfying meal.

Featuring log burners and exposed stone with a touch of modern style, The Ashford Arms effortlessly blends the charm of tradition with contemporary flair. Enjoy fine wines and local ales alongside dishes like pheasant crown with blackberry and blue cheese mousse wrapped in pancetta, classic beer-battered fish and chips with triple-cooked chips, and various cuts of steak. They even offer a delightful afternoon tea.

Headley: The Cock Inn

Just shy of the Surrey Hills and Box Hill itself, The Cock Inn Headley is sitting pretty with a modernised, countryside look that includes open fireplaces, rustic wood and vintage art. Plus, the menu spans everything from brunch to confit pork belly.

Chilgrove: The White Horse

Set in the gorgeous South Downs, with spectacular views of the area, The White Horse is a charming country pub that prides itself on its gastro food. Dine among exposed brick walls and rustic wooden furniture, with ingredients that are sourced locally by and large, including from the nearby Goodwood and a blue cheese from Brighton. As for the menu? Expect everything from seared scallops to burnt leek gnocchi or West End Farm pork ribeye here.

Somerset: The Rising Sun

The Rising Sun is found in the centre of Backwell, a village not far from Weston-Super-Mare and Cheddar Gorge. A country pub with rooms, it's the place to head to for gastro British pub grub and overnight stays in a charming home from home bedroom. This dog-friendly space also has an outdoor play area and beer garden.

Hampshire: The King's Head

Escape to The King's Head in the heart of Hampshire's beautiful countryside. This Georgian inn offers delicious local fare, real ales, and a cosy ambience that invites you to relax and unwind.

Whether you're stopping in for lunch, a pint, or a charming overnight stay, The King's Head promises an authentic pub experience. Tuck into delicious Sunday roasts and hearty mains like West End Farm pork ribeye or Castlemead Farm chicken supreme. 

Melksham: The King's Arms

Located in the charming Gloucestershire village of Melksham, The King's Arms is a Grade II-listed pub that dates back to the 18th century. Warm yourself by the roaring fire, while admiring the cosy, colourful interiors, and you can even make a night of it thanks to their ensuite bedrooms.

Enjoy award-winning beer and one of the best Sunday roasts around, as well as other tasty plates like buttermilk fried chicken burgers and rump steaks. Plus, you can even bring your dog along.

Berkshire: The Dundas Arms

Venture over to The Dundas Arms, a charming riverside inn surrounded by picturesque countryside where you can enjoy fresh, local fare, craft ales, and warm hospitality.

Feast on fresh plates of tomato flatbreads, ravioli, West End Farm pork ribeyes and more, then finish with droolworthy desserts (our eyes are on the rhubarb and custard blondie). Ideal for a weekend getaway, the pub offers boutique rooms, alfresco dining, and a tranquil garden setting.

New Forest: The High Corner Inn

Escape to The High Corner Inn, where rustic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Hampshire's New Forest. This cute pub invites you to indulge in a menu of locally sourced dishes like beef burgers and West End Farm pork ribeye, refreshing drinks, and a relaxing atmosphere.

With dog-friendly spaces and a fantastic outdoor area for kids, it's a family-friendly gem. Whether you're hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the scenery, The High Corner Inn is your ideal stop for great food and warm hospitality.

Copthorne: The Old House

Northeast of Copthorne, The Old House Inn is oozing with history and charm. Built in the 16th century, it's filled with quirky details like latticed windows and hearty oak beams. Here, the bar serves a hoppy selection of cask ale, craft beer, and fine wines, and the menu features top-notch pub grub made with the freshest local produce.

Peak District: The Maynard

Right in the heart of the Peak District National Park, The Maynard is a cosy pub that's surrounded by countryside. Expect cosy, traditional interiors, featuring wooden furniture, comfy seating and lots of pretty plants. There's even a beer garden too.

Be sure to check out the delicious menu while you're here, including delicious dishes like free-range chicken supreme, butternut squash and buckwheat risotto or bacon and cheese burgers.

Kent: The Goudhurst Inn

The Goudhurst Inn is the go-to spot for locals and a must-hit when you're in the area. It's got it all: a huge range of brews, an incredible cocktail lineup, top-class wines, and a rotating mix of craft beers and cask ales. Looking for a weekend escape? Stay in one of their four ensuite bedrooms for a cosy home-away-from-home vibe. And no need to leave your four-legged pals behind — dogs are welcome, whether you're grabbing a bite or enjoying a weekend stay.

Wiltshire: The Northey Arms

The Northey Arms can be found in Wiltshire, situated in the charming town of Box. This welcoming boozer promises stylish, traditional interiors and a sunny beer garden for the summer months, as well as 13 cosy bedrooms if you want to stay over.

They serve sumptuous Sunday roasts here, as well as an extensive menu all week long - think Aberdeen Angus steaks, smoked chilli squash risotto, wild mushroom gnocchi and more.

Dorset: The Castle Inn

Discover Dorset's gem at The Castle Inn. This beautifully restored, thatched-roof pub invites you to enjoy craft beers, hearty meals, and scenic views near Lulworth Cove. Stay in one of its boutique rooms, enjoy live music, or sip a pint in the dog-friendly garden - it's an ideal countryside retreat.

On the menu, you'll find some cracking, local dishes made with fresh ingredients, as well as tempting Sunday roasts. Look forward to tucking into the likes of caramelised celeriac and coconut soup, beef burgers topped with a maple and bacon relish and more.

Dorset: The Acorn Inn

Like something out of Thomas Hardy novel, Dorset's Acorn Inn is an ivy-covered delight full of original features including exposed beams and an old skittle alley. More than that though, they've got a very impressive menu boasting dishes such as open lasagne of confit rabbit, buffalo mozzarella arancini and crab souffle.

Worcestershire: The Hadley Bowling Green

The Hadley Bowling Green is set in the quaint village of Hadley Heath and right next to one of the oldest bowling greens in the UK. This 16th-century Elizabethan inn exudes rustic charm. Inside, wooden beams and glowing fireplaces create a warm and welcoming ambience, while outside, the expansive garden offers the perfect summer retreat.

Whether you're settling in for a pint with friends or enjoying a delicious meal in the restaurant, expect top-quality dishes made with local ingredients and a drinks list featuring everything from award-winning ales to fine wines. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, celebratory dinner, or relaxed weekend escape.

Sussex: The Welldiggers Arms

The Welldiggers Arms is a 300-year-old country pub with incredible views of South Downs National Park's rolling hills. Sporting beams across the ceiling, oak furniture and cosy corners to snuggle up in by candlelight, this secluded getaway is the perfect place to stay or enjoy a bite to eat. The menu includes a selection of moreish, fresh plates, such as wild mushroom arancini with truffle aioli to start, followed by Castlemead Farm chicken Kyiv or Cornish mussels in Butcombe Original ale, smoked bacon and creme fraiche. 

Peak District: The Peacock at Rowsley

Right in the centre of the Peak District, The Peacock at Rowsley is a charming hotel, pub and fine dining restaurant all in one. The building dates back to the 1600s, when it was once a manor house, and you can still find traditional features among its interiors.

There's a beautiful garden space facing the river, as well as 15 boutique bedrooms if you want to stay the night. As for the menu? Think Derbyshire sirloin steak, handpicked crab and roasted halibut, as well as some of the best Sunday lunch around.

Solihull: The Farm

Located on the outskirts of Solihull, The Farm is a cosy country pub that boasts one of the best beer gardens around, complete with plenty of outdoor seating and lots of greenery. The interiors are just as charming, featuring exposed brick walls and a rustic wooden beam ceiling.

You'll find plenty of great quality beer at this picturesque spot, and they offer happy hour prices between 4 and 6.30pm Monday to Thursday. Tuck into hearty plates of wood-fired chicken, Malaysian laksa or grilled salmon fillets, alongside tasty pizzas and Sunday roasts.

Somerset: The Swan Inn

Nestled in the stunning Mendips Hills, The Swan Inn is a 17th-century Grade II-listed pub that offers a delightful escape for locals and travellers alike. With its rustic charm and warm ambience, this inviting venue is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Enjoy a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, featuring classic pub dishes and their signature flatbread pizzas. Plus, with a selection of award-winning Butcombe beers on tap, you'll find the ideal refreshment to complement your meal.

Hampshire: The Anchor Inn

A quaint British pub in the heart of Hampshire, The Anchor Inn is seeped in history, from its low saloon doorway to the portraits of maritime and famous figures fixed to the walls. You can expect to devour elevated, seasonal fare here, with plates such as Brixham crab and Old Winchester quiche, chicken shawarma flatbread with baba ghanoush and West End Farm pork ribeye on the menu, all washed down with award-winning ale. 

Hemingford Grey: The Cock

This award-winning pub in Hemingford Grey is only a few miles outside of Cambridge, and is well worth the drive to try some of their signature dishes. From homemade sausages to catch of the day, the cooking is renowned in the local area, and top things off, the pub is right next to the River Ouse.

New Forest: White Buck Inn

Set in the heart of the New Forest, White Buck Inn is perfect for those who like a stroll or cycle near their country pub. The former country house has been converted into a homely pub, complete with 20 stylish and modern bedrooms. If you're popping by for Sunday lunch, the bar is only three minutes away from the village of Burley, and to top things off, it's dog friendly.

Cotswolds: The Falcon Inn

The Falcon Inn can be found in the charming town of Painswick, within the heart of the Cotswolds. There's a real focus on high-quality food here, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes such as butternut squash and potato gnocchi or pan-seared calves' liver.

This cosy boozer also serves award-winning wines from Balfour Winery, which you can enjoy in their comfy leather seats while surrounded by rustic wooden interiors. And if you fancy making a weekend of it, why not book one of their boutique bedrooms too?

Didmarton: The Kings Arms

A 17th century coaching inn that's now a traditional British pub and hotel, The Kings Arms can be found in Didmarton, Gloucestershire. The Grade II-listed building is decked out in cosy leather booths, dark walls and wooden furnishings, and you'll find one of the best selections of cask ale and craft beer at the bar.

Much of their produce is locally sourced, from local ales to seasonal dishes. Tuck into everything from Aberdeen Angus steaks to caramelised celeriac or Brixham Market fish stew, and don't miss out on their Sunday roasts either.

Gloucestershire: The Crown Inn

Brimming with history and countryside charm, The Crown Inn, Tolldown is the kind of place that feels like a warm hug. Just a short drive from Bath, this 16th-century inn has been lovingly revamped to keep its rustic soul while adding contemporary flourishes in calming greens and blues.

Inside, you'll find glowing fireplaces, exposed beams, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for long lunches, family gatherings, or spontaneous stop-ins. The kitchen serves up seasonal dishes and pub favourites made with ingredients from local suppliers, while the bar pours award-winning ales from Butcombe Brewery alongside an array of wines and spirits. Whether you're sipping in the garden sun or nestled indoors on a chilly afternoon, The Crown is a must-visit countryside escape.

Peak District: The Peacock at Owler Bar

Dating back to the early 19th century, The Peacock at Owler Bar is a charming country pub in the heart of the Peak District. The Grade II-listed building features traditional interiors, think beamed ceilings, comfy booth seating and a roaring fireplace.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, this welcoming space is just the place for you. Feeling peckish? They're serving up juicy burgers, steaks, sharers and even afternoon tea, with local ales to boot.

Alcester: Moat House

Found in the Warwickshire town of Alcester, The Moat House Inn is a classic country boozer that has all the charm you'd expect from a rural destination. Cosy up on their cosy booths and soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere, or head out into their expansive beer garden to soak up the sun during the summer months.

There are a wide variety of beers and wines to choose from, paired with a quintessentially British menu that has some international twists. Think confit free range duck leg, aubergine parmigiana gratin or smashed beef burgers, as well as smashing Sunday roasts.