Winter’s chill is the perfect excuse to cozy up in a quintessential British pub, where crackling fires, hearty food, and a fine selection of drinks promise a warm escape from the cold. Adding to their charm, many of these traditional inns offer comfortable rooms, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing weekend break without ever having to venture far. Here’s a selection of some of the best pubs across the UK that combine characterful accommodations with exceptional food and drink.
The Lake District is home to the Drunken Duck Inn, a peaceful retreat where the focus is on comfort and quality. With its ten rooms and two suites, the inn offers a simple yet elegant stay. The pub’s menu is a foodie’s delight, featuring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a glass of Brathay Gold ale by the fire or explore the nearby shores of Windermere. If you’re looking for something further south, Cornwall’s Chain Locker in Falmouth is another gem. Four of its six boutique rooms overlook the water, providing stunning harbor views. The bar serves up delicious plates of fish and chips, perfectly paired with a pint of local Gem Ale. The pub’s ceilings are adorned with maritime curios, adding to its nautical charm.
For a taste of history, head to The Gin Trap Inn in Norfolk, a 17th-century coaching inn that once hosted smugglers. Its characterful rooms and cottages, along with a menu that has earned three AA rosettes, make it a top choice for a weekend getaway. Gin lovers will be in paradise with over 100 bottles to choose from. In the Cotswolds, The Bull at Charlbury offers a perfect blend of minimalist design and rustic charm. Its 16th-century beams and fireplaces create a welcoming atmosphere, and the ten rooms promise a comfortable stay. The pub’s bar is a cozy spot to enjoy a pint of Steady Rolling Man pale ale.
Scotland’s The Taybank in Dunkeld offers a modern take on the traditional pub experience. Its sleek, mid-century-inspired bedrooms and apartments, paired with a bar that serves up Scottish produce, make it a stylish choice. Guests can even enjoy a breakfast hamper delivered to their room. In contrast, The Black Bull Inn in Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway, is one of the oldest pubs in the region, dating back to 1568. Its 15 rooms are equipped with all the modern comforts, including fluffy dressing gowns and Molton Brown toiletries. The pub’s menu features contemporary and classic dishes, perfect for warming up after a day exploring the surrounding hills.
Foodies will love The Pipe and Glass Inn in East Riding, which boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant. The bar, with its log fire, is the perfect spot to relax after enjoying a fine meal. The inn’s five boutique rooms surround a pretty garden, offering a peaceful retreat. For those who prefer a more eccentric experience, The Bell in Ticehurst, East Sussex, is a delightful choice. Its seven rooms are decorated with quirky touches, and the surrounding countryside is just as charming. Don’t forget to visit Bateman’s House, the former home of Rudyard Kipling, which is nearby.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a foodie haven, or a place steeped in history, these pubs offer the perfect winter hideaway. With their cozy rooms, delicious food, and warm atmospheres, they are the ideal destination for a relaxing weekend break. So why not treat yourself to a stay in one of these wonderful traditional inns and experience the best of British hospitality?
