THE BEST PUB WALKS IN THE UK
What could be more idyllic than combining the exploration of the great outdoors with time spent at one of Britain’s best loved rural retreats, the country pub? With its varied collection of dramatic landscapes and epic scenery, it’s clear to see why Britain’s rural walks are some of the best in the world.
And after an energetic day of scenic winter hiking, nothing could be more rewarding than a taste of warming pub grub and quenching your thirst in one of the UK’s lovely locals.
So, get wrapped up for your winter pub hiking adventures as we reveal our collection of the best pub walks in the UK.
SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK
A walker’s wonderland, hiking in the South Downs National Park among the 600 square miles of breathtakingly beautiful woodland, open countryside, river trails and epic coastline is a real winter treat.
You’re sure to be awestruck by the lush green rolling hills and striking views this area is renowned for, not to mention being spoilt for choice along the way with a host of bustling villages and proper pubs to choose from.
PETWORTH PARK AND UPPERTON COMMON
Distance: 6 miles
Start/finish: The Horseguards Inn, Tillington
- Begin at The Horseguards Inn, Tillington
- At All Hallows Church, spot the 14th century Manor House and follow the path north-west.
- Follow the path along the edge of the vineyard.
- Continue north for a circuit through Upperton Common’s beech and holly woodland.
- Enter Petworth Park by the Upperton Gate.
- Enjoy the 700 acres and feast your eyes on a 1,000-year-old oak tree.
This six-mile walk begins and ends at the Horseguards Inn, Tillington, where you can reward yourself with delicious winter comfort food from their locally sourced, seasonal menu.
A traditional 350-year-old pub, the Horseguards Inn is nestled in The South Downs and steeped in historical charm. Oak beams, stripped floorboards and a relaxed welcoming atmosphere awaits you, making this charming inn a must-visit after braving the elements.
THE SEVEN SISTERS AND BIRLING GAP
Distance: 5.5 miles
Start/finish: Tiger Inn, East Dean
Take a quintessentially British traditional pub, serving winter comfort food surrounded by oak beams and a log fire, add a jaw dropping stretch of UK coastline, and you’ll see why this winter pub walk is a must.
- Either follow the footpath south over Went Hill towards Birling Gap (clockwise) or west towards Crowlink and Flagstaff Point (anti-clockwise).
- In windy conditions, the second option is usually best when it comes to the coastal section.
- Walk past Birling Gap beyond Belle Tout Lighthouse.
- Circle back inland past Horseshoe Plantation.
- Head back north towards East Dean.
The chalk cliffs of Seven Sisters are a sight to behold. After battling the winter elements, receive a warm welcome and cosy up to the log fire while enjoying your much-deserved winter comfort food.
Serving delicious classic British dishes and simple hearty food in a traditional cosy setting, you’ll be spoilt for choice after admiring the stunning south down views.
NEW FOREST NATIONAL PARK
The New Forest National Park is brimming with charm and natural beauty. Boasting one of the largest areas of open heathland in the south east of England, the New Forest contains wonderfully pretty countryside, postcard-perfect villages and picturesque pub walks you and the whole family will enjoy. The only trouble you’ll have is pinpointing which one to try!
BURLEY VILLAGE
Distance: 4/5 miles
Start/finish: Burley Inn
The picturesque village of Burley oozes charm and is made famous by its fascinating history of witchcraft.
The epitome of a traditional New Forest village, Burley is chocolate-box perfect, with art galleries, tea rooms, gift shops and its very own cider farm. Starting and ending at the welcoming Burley Inn, this picturesque pub walk is one to be added to your winter calendar.
- Begin at Burley Village Centre, next to the Burley Inn.
- Take the circular walk around the village.
- Take the slightly uphill climb and enjoy striking views across Avon Valley.
- Follow the route back through the village towards the Burley Inn.
ATLANTIC COAST, CORNWALL
If you are thinking of heading further afield, the West Country offers a stunning selection of pub walks ideal for this winter. Cornwall’s Atlantic Coast is nothing short of spectacular. Tintagel is famously associated with King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table, but its striking views are a must and are peppered with welcoming locals along the way.
TINTAGEL TO BOSCASTLE
Distance: 7km
Start/finish: South West Coast Path/ Ye Olde Malthouse Inn
- This two/three-hour pub walk starts at the South West Coast Path in Tintagel.
- Take in the striking cliff-top views along the path.
- Follow the 7km coastal path all the way to Boscastle.
Tintagel’s Ye Olde Malthouse Inn, a 14th century tavern, will welcome you with open arms after completing this winter hike.
Serving up traditional warming favourites in an old country pub atmosphere, you are sure to find perfect winter drinks and comforting fayre in this popular Cornish inn.
GET WRAPPED UP IN STYLE
Whichever destination you pick for your pub walking adventures this winter, ensure you are wrapped up in style and ready to go! Winter is the perfect season to get warm and cosy to face the elements. Get wrapped up in style for your favourite UK pub walk with wardrobe must-haves you’re sure to love…