The Best Country Pubs In The UK

Add this spot - just outside of Bristol and Bath - to your summer drinking list. With a rolling beer garden and riverside location, The Lock Keeper is ideal for sunny days, with a Petanque pitch if you're feeling restless.

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.

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.

Whether you cycle, walk or drive there, Oak Inn is the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday. From the red phone box through to the low beamed ceilings, the pub is a popular spot in the New Forest, with a hearty menu that will keep even the fussiest eaters happy.

Nestled within the Kent Downs, this country pub is the epitome of British charm. Historically a monk's ale and cider house, The Dirty Habit boasts a menu of premium G&Ts, classic cocktails and beers on draught, as well as, seasonal dishes and Sunday roasts.

If you're looking for a country pub in East Sussex then you've come to the right place. The perfect pit stop during a country walk, The Gun offers local and international dishes alongside a vast selection of wines, craft beers and over 25 types of gin.

A family-friendly pub boasting gastro-style dishes, real ales and a warming atmosphere, The Poacher & The Partridge has that real Kentish charm. Grab a seat at the bar and tuck into wood-fired pizza or head outside to the garden with a G&T on those sunnier days.

Roaring fire place? Check. Wooden beams throughout? Check. The Five Bells in Leighton Buzzard has got country charm stamped all over it. Along with a more than cosy inside, the spot also has a huge beer garden, perfect for working your way through their long list of real ales.

Set in the gorgeous South Downs, The White Horse is a charming country pub that prides itself on its gastro food. Ingredients are sourced locally by and large, including from the nearby Goodwood and a blue cheese from Brighton.

A thatched roof, airy conservatory, and hefty oak bar set the scene at The Three Horseshoes, three miles outside of Cambridge. It's won a clutch of awards for its seasonal menus, with dishes including the likes of whole local partridge with honey roasted parsnips and carrots.

Located just a few minutes from Twickenham station, The Royal Oak is a charming watering hole spread across two floors. Tuck into mouthwatering pizza and ice cold beers with open fires and cosy spaces.

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.

After a long bracing walk through the Surrey Hills, The Abinger Hatch is the perfect place for some respite. Opposite a historic church and down a teeny tiny country lane, the independent pub is a home away from home. Grab a seat by the fire, stroke the pub bulldog, Stella, and tuck into dishes such as smoked haddock and cheddar fondue, and BBQ pulled pork scotch eggs. 

Cosy seating, wooden features and warm lighting give The Great House a proper pub feel. Whether you fancy the Mediterranean terrace and garden or a pulling up a chair inside, you'll be treated to French brasserie-style food and seasonal game.

Find this chocolate box-cute spot on the edge of the New Forest for classic pub 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? There's a selection of smart bedrooms to crash in upstairs.

The Plough in Effingham is a charming country pub that offers a uniquely welcoming experience, with hearty comfort food and delicious beers to accompany. Swing by on a sunny day and you can soak up rays in the gorgeous garden or enjoy a fun pub quiz when the evening rolls in. 

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.

You'd be hard pressed to find better views than at this former mill. Built in the 15th Century, The Wiremill sits on the side of a huge lake, with a large outdoor terrace perfect come summer. Even when the sun isn't shining this spot is worth a visit, with snug interiors, a great Sunday roast, and bedrooms if you fancy making a night of it.

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.

From the spacious landscaped garden to the cosy indoor area featuring log fires and wood-panelling, you can't go wrong with this Lamberhurst boozer. Expect a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and changing specials; with plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians too.

Located on Sutton Road, The Potting Shed is a gorgeous country pub in the heart of Kent. Unassuming interiors give the place a shabby chic feel; with hanging lights, modern fixtures and wooden accents alongside a beautiful garden and children's playground.

With an AA Rosette under their belts, The White Horse in Otterbourne creates menus using local food. The southern pub sources meat from the nearby Hampshire and the New Forest, while fish is caught by day boats from Lymington. There's also the staples of country pubs, with comfy armchairs next to roaring fires and a large beer garden when the sun is shining.