Treat yourself to a Sunday roast with a pint at these cosy pubs, the final destination point of some of the UK’s best pub walks.
As Napoleon supposedly declared, ‘an army marches on its stomach’. The same is true of hikers spurred on by the promise of a hearty meal. Pub walks represent the marriage of two sacred British institutions: a ramble through the howling gales and rain-cursed skies that see more sensible nations stay home and reach for the jigsaws. And the bonhomie, gastronomy, and roaring hearths of the public house – within whose walls all effort on the trail is suddenly redeemed.
Come rain or shine, the following are some of the best pubs and inns at which to come in from the cold after a morning (or afternoon) ramble, from the muddy moorlands of the Brecon Beacons to sandy East Anglian beaches.
Easy Walks
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Cumbria: Tarn Hows and The Drunken Duck Inn
1.9 miles, OS Map OL7. Cumbria’s Drunken Duck Inn earned its name after a Victorian landlady found her ducks passed out by the roadside. Visitors can still expect the same spirit of happy abandon at this celebrated country pub, best experienced after a bracing march through the Lakeland landscapes. Afterward, indulge in dishes such as venison bourguignon suet pudding or ChalkStream trout. Price: Two courses from £35, three courses from £45.
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Fife: Elie to St Monans on the Fife Coastal Path and The Peat Inn
3.1 miles OS Map 371. The Fife Coastal Path is a sedate trail that skirts sandy beaches and famous golf links, with windswept views across the Firths of Tay and Forth. Catch the 95 bus back to Elie, followed by a short drive to the Michelin-starred Peat Inn, where Scottish shellfish and game star in intricately constructed dishes. Price: Three courses from £29.
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Derbyshire: Along the Derwent and The Devonshire Arms at Beeley
4.3 miles, OS Map OL24. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Derbyshire countryside along the River Derwent. After a stroll through the scenic valley, rest weary legs at the characterful 18th-century Devonshire Arms, known for its cosy nooks and roaring fires. Price: Mains from £16.
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Wiltshire: Fonthill Lake and The Beckford Arms
4.3 miles, OS Map 118. The Beckford Arms offers an archetypal English pub experience beside the shores of Fonthill Lake. After an easy lap around the lake, diners can enjoy a variety of dishes including local pizzas during summer. Price: Mains from £15.
Intermediate Walks
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Devon: Haytor Rocks Circuit and The Rock Inn
5.6 miles, OS Map OL28. Explore Dartmoor’s famous tors before enjoying a meal at The Rock Inn, a 19th-century pub known for its local dishes. Price: Mains from £13.
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North Yorkshire: Rievaulx Abbey and The Hare Inn
5.6 miles, OS Map OL26. This walk leads you to the magnificent Rievaulx Abbey ruins, culminating in a remarkable dining experience at The Hare Inn, known for its exquisite tasting menu. Price: Tasting menu from around £100.
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Norfolk: The Norfolk Coastal Path and The Neptune
5.6 miles, OS Map 250. Experience stunning views along the Norfolk Coastal Path, followed by a visit to The Neptune, a coaching inn that serves delicious locally sourced seafood. Price: Set dinner from £70.
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Kent: The Saxon Shore Way and The Sportsman
6.8 miles, OS Map 149. Discover the scenic beauty of the Kentish coast before ending your hike at The Sportsman, a renowned gastropub celebrated for its signature seafood dishes. Price: Tasting menus from £70.
Challenging Walks
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Powys: Waun Fach and The Felin Fach Griffin
7.5 miles, OS Map OL13. Adventure through the breathtaking Black Mountains and dine at The Felin Fach Griffin, which highlights fine local produce. Price: Mains from £17.50.
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Gwynedd: Glyder Fawr and Glyder Fach and the Pen Y Gwryd Hotel
5 miles (with serious ascent), OS Map OL17. The Pen Y Gwryd Hotel offers a warm refuge for hikers in the Snowdonia region, coupled with an old-school dining experience. Price: Call in advance for availability.
