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A taste of Britain's pubs

Explore great old inns of Britain packed with historical intrigue, darkened corners and plenty of mysterious stories. Some come with stories of smugglers and ghosts, some have housed the country’s literary greats, and each tells a story of its own, weaved into the history of its walls. From the buzzing beer gardens and riverside pubs of London to the charming country inns of the Cotswolds, and stone-clad inns with roaring log fires in the north of England or Scotland, discover the best places in Britain for a classic pint. 

Discover some of the best pubs in Britain

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This Northumberland hideaway is wrapped by forest and heathland and is filled to the rafters with history.

Find out more about The Lord Crewe Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Adam Lynk/Lord Crew Arms Blanchland

Location: England

Pub garden and the back of The Lord Crewe Arms, Gloucestershire
The Lord Crewe Arms

Drink in the history of this Dumfries pub, a favourite watering hole of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.

Raise a toast to The Globe Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Dumfries, Scotland

A sign for a traditional British pub that reads 'Globe Inn', with a portrait of a man.
The Globe Inn, Dumfries

Enjoy a pint at these former cottages overlooking the scenic Red Wharf Bay.

Find out more about The Ship Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: @the_ship_teignmouth

Location: Teignmouth, England

Two black labradors with a pint at The Ship Inn bar
The Ship Inn

An ice-cold pint and a warm welcome await at this Wrexham institution, in the grounds of the STōK Cae Ras.

Cheers to The Turf (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Wrexham, Wales

Entrance to a British pub with a sign that reads 'The Turf'.
The Turf, Wrexham

This upmarket pub nestled in the Yorkshire Dales is home to an award-winning restaurant that uses ingredients from its kitchen garden.

Find out more about The Devonshire Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley

Location: Pilsley, England

Interior of a pub with the bar area, showing bench seating and dining room tables and chairs, exposed stone walls and a stone fireplace in background
The Devonshire Arms

Head to the highest point of the North York Moors National Park for some quality real ale.

Visit The Lion Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

Location: Blakey Ridge, England

Two people sit at a wooden picnic table, drinking outdoors by a stone building and countryside under a partly cloudy sky.
The Lion Inn, Blakey Ridge

Raise a pint or two with friends, and check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

Visit Brew York (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Matthew Curtis

Location: York, England

A group on a brewery tour of Brew York
Brew York

With over 900 years of history, this Abergavenny pub is renowned for its spooky ghost stories…

Discover The Skirrid Mountain Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: pinkat13

Location: Abergavenny, Wales

A group of hikers and people sat on tables outside The Skirrid Mountain Inn in Avergavenny, Wales
The Skirrid Mountain Inn

In the running for England’s oldest inn, grab a pint and chat to the locals at this pub which juts out of the cliff near the foot of Nottingham castle.

Pit-stop at Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Alamy Stock Photo

Location: Nottingham, England

A quaint on English pub and beer garden
Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem

Warm up in front of the roaring fire or enjoy some summer al fresco dining in the courtyard.

Visit The Bull’s Head Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Inn Collection Group

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Charming stone courtyard entrance to an inn with a sign, wooden gate, umbrella, and warm-lit building in the background.
The Bull’s Head Inn

Choose from more than 120 Yorkshire ales at this traditional boozer on one of York’s most storied streets.

Visit the Shambles Tavern (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Location: York, England

Man standing outside a shop
Shambles Tavern

Enjoy North Sea views with your pint at this Yorkshire pub for all seasons.

Visit the Cod and Lobster (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

Location: Staithes, England

Three people stand by the Cod & Lobster pub overlooking a harbour with boats and cliffs under a cloudy sky.
Cod and Lobster, Staithes

Escape to (possibly) England’s oldest inn, The Old Ferry Boat, in rural Cambridgeshire

Discover more about The Old Ferry Boat (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Greene King Pub Co/Ed Bagnall Photography

Location: Holywell (Cambridgeshire), England

The Old Ferry Boat pub in Cambridgeshire, England
The Old Ferry Boat

Make a stop at the historic Horse and Groom in East Ashling, Chichester, on the edge of the South Downs National Park.

Take time out at the Horse and Groom (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Getty Images / Caia Images

Location: London, England

Men getting beers for them at a local pub.
Horse and Groom

Your pint or roast at this 19th-century pub comes with epic views over the ruins of Byland Abbey.

Visit The Abbey Inn, Byland (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Abbey Inn/Andrew Hayes-Watkins

Location: Byland Abbey, England

Stone inn building with white windows, benches, and potted plants, beside a rural road. Tall grass and trees surround the countryside setting.
The Abbey Inn, Byland

Take a seat in the sunny beer garden, or cosy up beside the log fire in winter.

More about Tafarn Sinc (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Tafarn Sinc

Location: Rosebush, Wales

The interior of Tafarn Sinc, a traditional Welsh pub
Tafarn Sinc

Meet the quintessential village pub where local ingredients take pride of plate.

Visit the Tollemache Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Tollemache Arms/Joe Buckley

Location: Harrington, England

Cosy restaurant interior with tables, patterned chairs, brick feature wall, framed art, and soft lighting.
Tollemache Arms, Northamptonshire

This award-winning pub and bistro has its own kitchen garden, and works with top local producers.

Enjoy The Felin Fach Griffin (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Crown copyright (2016) Visit Wales

Location: Felinfach, Wales

The Felin Fach Griffin
The Felin Fach Griffin

Enjoy the largest beer selection in Coventry, with 23 ales on tap and up to 25 bottled varieties.

Explore Twisted Barrel Brewery and Tap House (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Nemorin/Peter Goding/My Dog Sighs and Snub 23

Location: Coventry, England

Friends, including a man in a wheelchair having a beer in outdoor beer garden
Twisted Barrel Brewery and Tap House

Toe-tapping live music and classic Scottish dishes – is there a better night out in Inverness?

Sing the night away at Hootananny (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Location: Inverness, Scotland

Three musicians playing music in a pub.
Hootananny

Cross the historic Menai Suspension Bridge to visit this traditional Welsh pub.

Visit the Anglesey Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: JW LEES & CO (BREWERS) LTD

Location: Menai Bridge, Wales

Bartender serving drinks behind a pub counter with beer taps, bottles of wine, and spirits in the background.
Anglesey Arms Hotel

Whether it’s a quiet pint or a three-course feast – you're in for a treat.

Visit the Tickled Trout (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Tickled Trout

Location: Barlow, England

Stylish restaurant interior with orange chairs, a red velvet booth, floral arrangement, and greenery overhead.
Tickled Trout, Derbyshire

Treat yourself to a pint in the sunny beer garden, or a cosy supper beside the log fire.

Discover The Butchers Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Butchers Arms

Location: Stroud, England

The Butchers Arms, Stroud
The Butchers Arms

Set within a thousand acres of deer park and boasting works by leading artists, Norfolk’s Gunton Arms is special.

Find out more about The Gunton Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Gunton Arms

Location: Norwich, England

Close up of a plate of food at The Gunton Arms, Norwich
The Gunton Arms

Real ales and comfort food: two simple concepts, but the Pint Shop takes them both to new heights.

Pick a table at Pint Shop (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Pint Shop

Location: Cambridge, England

Pint Shop, Cambridge
Pint Shop

Feast your eyes on this Tudor pub, set in one of England’s most scenic medieval towns, and say ‘hi’ to a ghost or two.

Find out more about The Mermaid Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: mermaid_inn_rye

Location: Rye, England

A view down a cobbled street with the Mermaid Inn on the right hand side in the town of Rye
The Mermaid Inn

This cosy pub puts the best of British cuisine on your plate, plus fine local ales, spirits and wines.

Plan your trip to The Falcon Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism/Nick Turner

Location: Painswick, England

Falcon Inn, Painswick, Gloucestershire
The Falcon Inn

Take in history in this pub that now loves its guests, but in historical times used to boil them alive...

Find out more about The Ostrich (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: ostrichcolnbrook

Location: Colnbrook, England

Drinks on display on a pub bar
The Ostrich

Relax at this elegant coaching inn after a day exploring the Cotswolds.

Visit The Wheatsheaf (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Northleach, England

Pint of beer and a sausage roll on a plate on a table in a pub
The Wheatsheaf, Northleach

The place to be for a traditional Scottish meal and real ale pint.

Find out more about Regent Bar (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitScotland/The Regent Bar

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

A series of pride and LGTBQ+ flags on display at the Regent Bar in Edinburgh
Regent Bar

In winter, warm up around the open fire – while summer is the time for rosé on the patio.

Grab a table at The Dartmoor Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Lauren Bond / Blooming B Photography

Location: Shortacombe, England

The Dartmoor Inn
The Dartmoor Inn

The oldest inn on the Isle of Skye takes food and drink very seriously. You’ll find scallops from Skye and Scottish salmon and game on the menu as well as 130 single malt whiskies to choose from.

Find out more about The Stein Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: t2plc

Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Stein Inn
The Stein Inn

Nestled in Brighton’s Lanes is the city’s oldest pub, brimming with Victorian charm.

Visit The Cricketers (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Brighton, England

Family at a table in a pub having a drink
The Cricketers, Brighton

This pub puts on a real show with its colourful flower displays.

Visit The Churchill Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu Films/Ula Blocksage

Location: London, England

Two people walking and smiling inside a traditional pub decorated with festive garlands and vintage photos.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington

This 18th-century coaching inn has been transformed into a cosy pub-restaurant with six boutique bedrooms.

Visit The George & Heart House (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The George & Heart/Kelly Napoli/Joe Lang

Location: Margate, England

Cozy pub interior with round wooden tables, patterned cushioned seats, and stained glass windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The George & Heart House, Margate

Experience Scottish hospitality at this welcoming pub, pulling pints from Scotland’s top independent breweries.

Visit The Queens Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Couple sat at a table in a pub, smiling and having a drink
The Queens Arms, Edinburgh

Mentioned in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, this 16th-century coaching inn in Dorset is nothing short of charming and houses an award-winning restaurant serving exceptional seasonal dishes.

Find out more about The Acorn Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: acron_inn

Location: Evershot, England

Outside view of the Acorn Inn
The Acorn Inn

This cosy pub with its wood-panelled interior has welcomed patrons since 1792.

Visit The Two Brewers (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Windsor, England

Couple sat at a table in a pub having a drink
The Two Brewers, Windsor

This Northumberland hideaway is wrapped by forest and heathland and is filled to the rafters with history.

Find out more about The Lord Crewe Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Adam Lynk/Lord Crew Arms Blanchland

Location: England

Pub garden and the back of The Lord Crewe Arms, Gloucestershire
The Lord Crewe Arms

Drink in the history of this Dumfries pub, a favourite watering hole of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns.

Raise a toast to The Globe Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Location: Dumfries, Scotland

A sign for a traditional British pub that reads 'Globe Inn', with a portrait of a man.
The Globe Inn, Dumfries

Enjoy a pint at these former cottages overlooking the scenic Red Wharf Bay.

Find out more about The Ship Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: @the_ship_teignmouth

Location: Teignmouth, England

Two black labradors with a pint at The Ship Inn bar
The Ship Inn

An ice-cold pint and a warm welcome await at this Wrexham institution, in the grounds of the STōK Cae Ras.

Cheers to The Turf (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Wrexham, Wales

Entrance to a British pub with a sign that reads 'The Turf'.
The Turf, Wrexham

This upmarket pub nestled in the Yorkshire Dales is home to an award-winning restaurant that uses ingredients from its kitchen garden.

Find out more about The Devonshire Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley

Location: Pilsley, England

Interior of a pub with the bar area, showing bench seating and dining room tables and chairs, exposed stone walls and a stone fireplace in background
The Devonshire Arms

Head to the highest point of the North York Moors National Park for some quality real ale.

Visit The Lion Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

Location: Blakey Ridge, England

Two people sit at a wooden picnic table, drinking outdoors by a stone building and countryside under a partly cloudy sky.
The Lion Inn, Blakey Ridge

Raise a pint or two with friends, and check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

Visit Brew York (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Matthew Curtis

Location: York, England

A group on a brewery tour of Brew York
Brew York

With over 900 years of history, this Abergavenny pub is renowned for its spooky ghost stories…

Discover The Skirrid Mountain Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: pinkat13

Location: Abergavenny, Wales

A group of hikers and people sat on tables outside The Skirrid Mountain Inn in Avergavenny, Wales
The Skirrid Mountain Inn

In the running for England’s oldest inn, grab a pint and chat to the locals at this pub which juts out of the cliff near the foot of Nottingham castle.

Pit-stop at Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Alamy Stock Photo

Location: Nottingham, England

A quaint on English pub and beer garden
Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem

Warm up in front of the roaring fire or enjoy some summer al fresco dining in the courtyard.

Visit The Bull’s Head Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Inn Collection Group

Location: Beaumaris, Wales

Charming stone courtyard entrance to an inn with a sign, wooden gate, umbrella, and warm-lit building in the background.
The Bull’s Head Inn

Choose from more than 120 Yorkshire ales at this traditional boozer on one of York’s most storied streets.

Visit the Shambles Tavern (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Location: York, England

Man standing outside a shop
Shambles Tavern

Enjoy North Sea views with your pint at this Yorkshire pub for all seasons.

Visit the Cod and Lobster (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

Location: Staithes, England

Three people stand by the Cod & Lobster pub overlooking a harbour with boats and cliffs under a cloudy sky.
Cod and Lobster, Staithes

Escape to (possibly) England’s oldest inn, The Old Ferry Boat, in rural Cambridgeshire

Discover more about The Old Ferry Boat (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Greene King Pub Co/Ed Bagnall Photography

Location: Holywell (Cambridgeshire), England

The Old Ferry Boat pub in Cambridgeshire, England
The Old Ferry Boat

Make a stop at the historic Horse and Groom in East Ashling, Chichester, on the edge of the South Downs National Park.

Take time out at the Horse and Groom (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Getty Images / Caia Images

Location: London, England

Men getting beers for them at a local pub.
Horse and Groom

Your pint or roast at this 19th-century pub comes with epic views over the ruins of Byland Abbey.

Visit The Abbey Inn, Byland (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Abbey Inn/Andrew Hayes-Watkins

Location: Byland Abbey, England

Stone inn building with white windows, benches, and potted plants, beside a rural road. Tall grass and trees surround the countryside setting.
The Abbey Inn, Byland

Take a seat in the sunny beer garden, or cosy up beside the log fire in winter.

More about Tafarn Sinc (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Tafarn Sinc

Location: Rosebush, Wales

The interior of Tafarn Sinc, a traditional Welsh pub
Tafarn Sinc

Meet the quintessential village pub where local ingredients take pride of plate.

Visit the Tollemache Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Tollemache Arms/Joe Buckley

Location: Harrington, England

Cosy restaurant interior with tables, patterned chairs, brick feature wall, framed art, and soft lighting.
Tollemache Arms, Northamptonshire

This award-winning pub and bistro has its own kitchen garden, and works with top local producers.

Enjoy The Felin Fach Griffin (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Crown copyright (2016) Visit Wales

Location: Felinfach, Wales

The Felin Fach Griffin
The Felin Fach Griffin

Enjoy the largest beer selection in Coventry, with 23 ales on tap and up to 25 bottled varieties.

Explore Twisted Barrel Brewery and Tap House (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Nemorin/Peter Goding/My Dog Sighs and Snub 23

Location: Coventry, England

Friends, including a man in a wheelchair having a beer in outdoor beer garden
Twisted Barrel Brewery and Tap House

Toe-tapping live music and classic Scottish dishes – is there a better night out in Inverness?

Sing the night away at Hootananny (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Location: Inverness, Scotland

Three musicians playing music in a pub.
Hootananny

Cross the historic Menai Suspension Bridge to visit this traditional Welsh pub.

Visit the Anglesey Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: JW LEES & CO (BREWERS) LTD

Location: Menai Bridge, Wales

Bartender serving drinks behind a pub counter with beer taps, bottles of wine, and spirits in the background.
Anglesey Arms Hotel

Whether it’s a quiet pint or a three-course feast – you're in for a treat.

Visit the Tickled Trout (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Tickled Trout

Location: Barlow, England

Stylish restaurant interior with orange chairs, a red velvet booth, floral arrangement, and greenery overhead.
Tickled Trout, Derbyshire

Treat yourself to a pint in the sunny beer garden, or a cosy supper beside the log fire.

Discover The Butchers Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Butchers Arms

Location: Stroud, England

The Butchers Arms, Stroud
The Butchers Arms

Set within a thousand acres of deer park and boasting works by leading artists, Norfolk’s Gunton Arms is special.

Find out more about The Gunton Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The Gunton Arms

Location: Norwich, England

Close up of a plate of food at The Gunton Arms, Norwich
The Gunton Arms

Real ales and comfort food: two simple concepts, but the Pint Shop takes them both to new heights.

Pick a table at Pint Shop (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Pint Shop

Location: Cambridge, England

Pint Shop, Cambridge
Pint Shop

Feast your eyes on this Tudor pub, set in one of England’s most scenic medieval towns, and say ‘hi’ to a ghost or two.

Find out more about The Mermaid Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: mermaid_inn_rye

Location: Rye, England

A view down a cobbled street with the Mermaid Inn on the right hand side in the town of Rye
The Mermaid Inn

This cosy pub puts the best of British cuisine on your plate, plus fine local ales, spirits and wines.

Plan your trip to The Falcon Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism/Nick Turner

Location: Painswick, England

Falcon Inn, Painswick, Gloucestershire
The Falcon Inn

Take in history in this pub that now loves its guests, but in historical times used to boil them alive...

Find out more about The Ostrich (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: ostrichcolnbrook

Location: Colnbrook, England

Drinks on display on a pub bar
The Ostrich

Relax at this elegant coaching inn after a day exploring the Cotswolds.

Visit The Wheatsheaf (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain

Location: Northleach, England

Pint of beer and a sausage roll on a plate on a table in a pub
The Wheatsheaf, Northleach

The place to be for a traditional Scottish meal and real ale pint.

Find out more about Regent Bar (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitScotland/The Regent Bar

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

A series of pride and LGTBQ+ flags on display at the Regent Bar in Edinburgh
Regent Bar

In winter, warm up around the open fire – while summer is the time for rosé on the patio.

Grab a table at The Dartmoor Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: Lauren Bond / Blooming B Photography

Location: Shortacombe, England

The Dartmoor Inn
The Dartmoor Inn

The oldest inn on the Isle of Skye takes food and drink very seriously. You’ll find scallops from Skye and Scottish salmon and game on the menu as well as 130 single malt whiskies to choose from.

Find out more about The Stein Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: t2plc

Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Stein Inn
The Stein Inn

Nestled in Brighton’s Lanes is the city’s oldest pub, brimming with Victorian charm.

Visit The Cricketers (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Brighton, England

Family at a table in a pub having a drink
The Cricketers, Brighton

This pub puts on a real show with its colourful flower displays.

Visit The Churchill Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu Films/Ula Blocksage

Location: London, England

Two people walking and smiling inside a traditional pub decorated with festive garlands and vintage photos.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington

This 18th-century coaching inn has been transformed into a cosy pub-restaurant with six boutique bedrooms.

Visit The George & Heart House (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: The George & Heart/Kelly Napoli/Joe Lang

Location: Margate, England

Cozy pub interior with round wooden tables, patterned cushioned seats, and stained glass windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The George & Heart House, Margate

Experience Scottish hospitality at this welcoming pub, pulling pints from Scotland’s top independent breweries.

Visit The Queens Arms (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Couple sat at a table in a pub, smiling and having a drink
The Queens Arms, Edinburgh

Mentioned in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, this 16th-century coaching inn in Dorset is nothing short of charming and houses an award-winning restaurant serving exceptional seasonal dishes.

Find out more about The Acorn Inn (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: acron_inn

Location: Evershot, England

Outside view of the Acorn Inn
The Acorn Inn

This cosy pub with its wood-panelled interior has welcomed patrons since 1792.

Visit The Two Brewers (opens in a new tab)

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Location: Windsor, England

Couple sat at a table in a pub having a drink
The Two Brewers, Windsor

Cosy countryside pubs and rural escapes

Britain’s rural pubs are ripe for relaxation. Warm up with a Sunday roast in front of a roaring fire after a brisk country walk, or perch in a beer garden with your pint on a sunny summer’s evening. Bliss.
  • Blanchland, England

    This Northumberland hideaway is wrapped by forest and heathland and is filled to the rafters with history.

    Photo by: Adam Lynk/Lord Crew Arms Blanchland

    Location: England

    Pub garden and the back of The Lord Crewe Arms, Gloucestershire
  • Inverarnan, Scotland

    Dare you stay at one of Scotland’s most haunted pubs?

    Photo by: @laura0utdoors/The Drovers Inn

    Location: Inverarnan, Scotland

    Atmospheric view inside old Drovers Inn Hotel dining area
  • Red Wharf Bay, Wales

    Enjoy a pint at these former cottages overlooking the scenic Red Wharf Bay.

    Photo by: @the_ship_teignmouth

    Location: Teignmouth, England

    Two black labradors with a pint at The Ship Inn bar
  • Thorpe Market, England

    Set within a thousand acres of deer park and boasting works by leading artists, Norfolk’s Gunton Arms is special.

    Photo by: The Gunton Arms

    Location: Norwich, England

    Close up of a plate of food at The Gunton Arms, Norwich
  • Abergavenny, Wales

    With over 900 years of history, this Abergavenny pub is renowned for its spooky ghost stories…

    Photo by: pinkat13

    Location: Abergavenny, Wales

    A group of hikers and people sat on tables outside The Skirrid Mountain Inn in Avergavenny, Wales
  • Sheepscombe, England

    Treat yourself to a pint in the sunny beer garden, or a cosy supper beside the log fire.

    Photo by: The Butchers Arms

    Location: Stroud, England

    The Butchers Arms, Stroud
  • St Ives, England

    Escape to (possibly) England’s oldest inn, The Old Ferry Boat, in rural Cambridgeshire

    Photo by: Greene King Pub Co/Ed Bagnall Photography

    Location: Holywell (Cambridgeshire), England

    The Old Ferry Boat pub in Cambridgeshire, England
  • Clynderwen, Wales

    Take a seat in the sunny beer garden, or cosy up beside the log fire in winter.

    Photo by: Tafarn Sinc

    Location: Rosebush, Wales

    The interior of Tafarn Sinc, a traditional Welsh pub
  • East Ashling, England

    Make a stop at the historic Horse and Groom in East Ashling, Chichester, on the edge of the South Downs National Park.

    Photo by: Getty Images / Caia Images

    Location: London, England

    Men getting beers for them at a local pub.
  • High Blakey, England

    Head to the highest point of the North York Moors National Park for some quality real ale.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

    Location: Blakey Ridge, England

    Two people sit at a wooden picnic table, drinking outdoors by a stone building and countryside under a partly cloudy sky.
  • Northleach, England

    Relax at this elegant coaching inn after a day exploring the Cotswolds.

    Photo by: VisitBritain

    Location: Northleach, England

    Pint of beer and a sausage roll on a plate on a table in a pub
  • Bakewell, England

    This charming inn sits on the Chatsworth Estate, and serves top-quality local beers, spirits and food.

    Photo by: The Devonshire Arms at Beeley

    Location: Beeley, England

    The Devonshire Arms at Beeley

Historic city pubs and hidden urban gems

Whether it’s a post-shopping pint or a place to get the party started, our city pubs have got you covered. Cheers to that.

Famous British pubs on film

From Harry Potter’s Leaky Cauldron to Shaun of the Dead’s Winchester Tavern, the Great British pub has played a leading role in some of our favourite films and TV series.

Kick off your cinematic pub crawl in north Wales at The Turf Pub, a returning star of Welcome to Wrexham, and you might just bump into a Hollywood actor or two. If you’re more into farming than football, then head to Grassington in Yorkshire to visit The Devonshire, which might be more familiar as The Drovers Arms in All Creatures Great and Small

In Edinburgh, the Tolbooth Tavern counts Outlander and Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein among its credits list. Head north to the Scottish Highlands for a pint at the Clachaig Inn near Glencoe, as featured in romcom Made of Honour

Ted Lasso fans: join the AFC Richmond faithful at the real-life Crown & Anchor, Richmond’s Prince’s Head. More of a romcom lover? You’ll be in good company at The White Horse in Shere, Surrey – the swoonworthy setting for The Holiday

Photo by: VisitBritain/Herewegoagain

Location: Richmond upon Thames, England

A woman leaning against a red telephone box and takes a selfie

Scenic pub walks

A pint and a pootle: is there a better combination? These walks take in amazing views and top-notch pubs.

Gastropubs and top-notch Sunday roasts

Our pub food will have your belly rumbling and mouth watering – from roast dinners with all the trimmings to Michelin-approved fare. Yorkshire pudding, anyone?
  • Baslow, England

    Whether it’s a quiet pint or a three-course feast – you're in for a treat.

    Photo by: Tickled Trout

    Location: Barlow, England

    Stylish restaurant interior with orange chairs, a red velvet booth, floral arrangement, and greenery overhead.
  • Brecon, Wales

    This award-winning pub and bistro has its own kitchen garden, and works with top local producers.

    Photo by: Crown copyright (2016) Visit Wales

    Location: Felinfach, Wales

    The Felin Fach Griffin
  • Byland Abbey, England

    Your pint or roast at this 19th-century pub comes with epic views over the ruins of Byland Abbey.

    Photo by: The Abbey Inn/Andrew Hayes-Watkins

    Location: Byland Abbey, England

    Stone inn building with white windows, benches, and potted plants, beside a rural road. Tall grass and trees surround the countryside setting.
  • Harrington, England

    Meet the quintessential village pub where local ingredients take pride of plate.

    Photo by: The Tollemache Arms/Joe Buckley

    Location: Harrington, England

    Cosy restaurant interior with tables, patterned chairs, brick feature wall, framed art, and soft lighting.
  • Stein, Scotland

    The oldest inn on the Isle of Skye takes food and drink very seriously. You’ll find scallops from Skye and Scottish salmon and game on the menu as well as 130 single malt whiskies to choose from.

    Photo by: t2plc

    Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland

    The Stein Inn
  • Chard, England

    Whatever the season, The Cotley Inn's award-winning food will ensure no-one goes hungry. Treat yourself to a lavish three-course meal or enjoy some proper pub favourites.

    Photo by: Georgina Preston

    Location: Wambrook, England

    Rural view of a pub from an elevated position looking across fields to the pub in the background.
  • Bolton Bridge, England

    This upmarket pub nestled in the Yorkshire Dales is home to an award-winning restaurant that uses ingredients from its kitchen garden.

    Photo by: The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley

    Location: Pilsley, England

    Interior of a pub with the bar area, showing bench seating and dining room tables and chairs, exposed stone walls and a stone fireplace in background
  • Evershot, England

    Mentioned in Thomas Hardy’s Tess of the d’Urbervilles, this 16th-century coaching inn in Dorset is nothing short of charming and houses an award-winning restaurant serving exceptional seasonal dishes.

    Photo by: acron_inn

    Location: Evershot, England

    Outside view of the Acorn Inn
  • Thwaite, England

    This vegetarian and vegan-friendly pub in a pretty Suffolk village serves the likes of roasted mushroom wellington and smoked almond tofu laksa in quaint surroundings.

    Photo by: The Walnut tree

    Location: Warminster, England

    Inside view of The Walnut Tree restaurant in Warminster
  • Painswick, England

    This cosy pub puts the best of British cuisine on your plate, plus fine local ales, spirits and wines.

    Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism/Nick Turner

    Location: Painswick, England

    Falcon Inn, Painswick, Gloucestershire
  • Okehampton, England

    In winter, warm up around the open fire – while summer is the time for rosé on the patio.

    Photo by: Lauren Bond / Blooming B Photography

    Location: Shortacombe, England

    The Dartmoor Inn
  • Cambridge, England

    Real ales and comfort food: two simple concepts, but the Pint Shop takes them both to new heights.

    Photo by: Pint Shop

    Location: Cambridge, England

    Pint Shop, Cambridge

Family-friendly pubs in Britain

Whether it’s dedicated children’s menus, fun-filled play areas or baby-changing facilities, these pubs offer a warm welcome to guests of all ages.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Zut Media

Location: Chester, England

Family of three talking with waiter by the fireplace at a local pub.
  • The Oakfield, Chester Zoo, Cheshire 

    Within the grounds of Chester Zoo, there’s a gastropub that’s great for your own little monkeys. The Oakfield was once an enclosure where some of the zoo’s first animals lived; now it’s a family-friendly drinking and dining spot with a tasty kids’ menu.  

    Visit The Oakfield

  • The Eagle, Cambridge 

    Did you know this Cambridge watering hole is where Francis Crick and James Watson announced that they had discovered the DNA double-helix? It’s also got a lovely children’s menu, plus baby changing facilities are available. 

    Visit The Eagle

  • The Bradgate, Leicestershire 

    This country pub is handily on the doorstep of Bradgate Park, where little ones can blow off some steam. Kids can pick from a ‘Young Fawns’ menu of pub favourites and will adore the climbing frame. Other facilities include a baby changing area and highchairs. 

    Visit The Bradgate

  • The Bridge Inn, Derbyshire 

    Deep in the Hope Valley, The Bridge Inn makes a cosy stop-off while exploring the Peak District. There’s a lovely beer garden for the kids to run around in, plus a fun outdoor play area. The dedicated Smaller Appetites menu has plenty of child-friendly choices too. The nearby rocky outcrops of Curbar Edge make for a perfect pre- or post-pub walk with views over the Derwent Valley to the White Peak.

    Visit The Bridge Inn 

  • The Three Horsehoes Inn, Vale of Glamorgan 

    Brighten a rainy day at this pub’s fabulous soft play space, with a dedicated baby and toddler area alongside a more adventurous zone for older children. Refuel on local produce, including meat reared in nearby villages, in one of the indoor or outdoor dining areas. 

    Visit The Three Horseshoes Inn

  • The Mulberry, Conwy 

    If your little one is yet to try their first fish and chips, this seaside pub is a great spot. There’s a pirate ship play area that will keep kids busy, plus they’ll enjoy exploring nearby Conwy Castle too.  

    Visit The Mulberry 

  • Brewhemia, Edinburgh 

    This beer palace hosts a fantastic range of children’s events throughout summer – last year’s line-up included a Minecraft Kids’ Brunch and Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. The kids’ menu features both breakfast and all-day options that are sure to suit even the pickiest eater. 

    Visit Brewhemia 

  • WEST On The Green, Glasgow 

    In Glasgow’s iconic Templeton Building you’ll find WEST on the Green, a firmly family- and dog-friendly pub. Kids will love playing on the Green, and once they’ve worked up an appetite there’s a huge German-themed children’s menu to order from. 

    Visit WEST On The Green 

Haunted pubs in Britain

Your glass of whisky might not be the only spirit you’ll find in some of our spookiest pubs, where ghosts mingle with guests and terrifying tales hang in the air.

One of Scotland’s oldest pubs – and perhaps one of its most haunted too – is the Drovers Inn at the top of Loch Lomond. Watch out for a ghostly family who’ve been known to pay guests a visit, and if you’re visiting in October, the annual Halloween celebrations are a must. 

In Wales, brave a ghost hunt at the Skirrid Inn in the magnificent Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park to uncover its ghoulish past. There are 900 years of legends to discover at the pub, which used to be a courthouse.  

Dating back to 1189, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is one of England’s oldest surviving inns and famous for its Haunted Snug. Enter at your peril – some customers have reported an eerie feeling in this room. 

Photo by: Visit Nottinghamshire

Location: Nottingham, England

Historic white inn with black timber framing, reading 'the oldest inn in England,' set against a rocky hill and lush greenery.

British beer festivals and tasting tours

Drink to our buzzing beer festival scene, with a tipple for every taste. Or join a walking tour for a real taste of a city's beer heritage.

British pub FAQs

  • This very much depends on the individual pub’s rules. Generally, children under 16 can enter pubs with an adult. However, some pubs may not allow children at all or require them to leave by a certain time.  

  • Tipping at the pub isn’t expected. If there is table service, there may be a service charge. 

  • This means that one person buys drinks for everyone in their group at once. Then, when everyone has finished their drink, another person buys drinks for the group. This makes the process faster and ensures that everyone pays a similar amount. 

  • This is up to the individual pub, as there is no legal requirement for dogs (apart from assistance dogs) to be allowed on the premises. Many pubs, especially those in rural areas, will allow dogs or have a dog-friendly area within the pub. 

  • A gastropub puts the spotlight on high-quality food served in cosy pub surroundings. A traditional pub, meanwhile, may focus more on typical pub grub or perhaps not serve meals at all. 

  • Real ale, bitter and cask all refer to different kinds of drinks that you might sample at a British pub. 

    Real ale is the name for a type of beer defined by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale): traditionally kept, served from a cask and without the injection of additional carbon dioxide gas. A bitter is a type of British pale ale that’s easy to drink and with a gentle bitterness. Cask beer is an unpasteurised and unfiltered beer that is drawn from its barrel by gravity or a hand pump. 

Toast Britain’s food and drink scene

  • Whet your whistle with Scottish whisky, raise a glass to English gin making – but did you know Wales is also leaving its mark?

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Pinzutu

    Location: Wooler, England

    Three women having a tasting session at a whisky distillery
  • Britain’s drink scene is as diverse as its people, and we love a good knees-up.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/Grant Pritchard

    Location: Woodchester, England

    Two women walk through vines at a vineyard
  • Whether you're hopping from London to Cardiff or taking a road trip in the Scottish Highlands, we have something delicious just for you.

    Photo by: VisitBritain/NYMNPA/Ula Blocksage

    Location: Helmsley, England

    People look into a bakery window on a quaint stone street with hanging flowers and signs for ice cream and sandwiches.

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