Ten of the Best: Country pubs with walks nearby

One of the greatest things about the British countryside is the good old country pub. CAMRA (Campaign For Real Ale) have published a new book, Great British Pubs, written by Adrian Tierney-Jones, celebrating the best British pubs.

All these pubs, undoubtedly have something special to offer but also have woodland nearby to explore before relaxing with a pint afterwards.

Applecross Inn, Highlands IV54 8LR

Embedded in the glorious Highlands, this remote spot is worth seeking out. The Inn has achieved a fantastic reputation for its seafood, venison and for offering sought after cask ales to its drinkers. Nearby woods to walk off your lunch include Rassal Ashwood NNR which offers a green haven of unusual plant life.

www.applecross.uk.com/inn 

Barton Inn, Somerset TA11 6BZ

To build up your appetite, tackle Ivy Thorn & Walton Hills. “Really enjoy walking these woods, absolutely gorgeous and the views are to die for”. You're in cider country here so be sure to try what’s on offer. A pub and area full of character with views of Glastonbury Tor.

 www.barton-inn.co.uk

Birch Hall Inn, North Yorkshire YO22 5LE

A network of footpaths and photos are available in Stray Head Banks and this well-loved spot in the North Yorkshire Moors was the landscape for the TV series Heartbeat. The pub also houses an old-fashioned sweet shop where they sell their own fudge.

www.beckhole.info 

Duke of York, Devon EX19 8BG

This is a pub with pedigree. A real ale favourite, the pub is reputed to have called Ted Hughes a regular, as well as the famous hunting parson and dog breeder Jack Russell. Dogs are welcome here and keen walkers can find nearby paths at Halsdon. 

The Fountain Head, Devon EX12 3BG

Some claim the beautiful Branscombe is the longest village in England. If you want to whet your appetite for the local brews, walk the village, then head to Weston (Branscombe) Estate which is less than a mile away and offers spectacular coastal views.

 www.fountainheadinn.com

Goose & Cuckoo Inn, Abergavenny NP7 6ER

A popular walker’s haunt, the pub’s nearby woods include Coed Cefn which houses ancient woodland and an ancient monument in the Iron Age hilltop fort. The train station offers an alternative route home for those wanting to sample the wide range of local beers. Great spot for bluebell spotting in the spring.

www.gooseandcuckoo.com 

Hare & Hounds, West Sussex PO18 9JQ

Find yourself in walking heaven with ancient burial grounds, ageless woodlands, rolling farmland and distant sea views. Earn a delicious pub lunch with a trip to historical woods at Kingley Vale or venture to Stansted Park described as “the most pleasant and agreeable vistas...that are to be seen anywhere in England” Daniel Defoe.

www.hareandhoundspub.co.uk

Pen-y-Gwryd, Gwynedd LL55 4NT

Gwydyr is familiar to thousands of visitors who walk the paths, study wildlife, cycle, climb, fish, orienteer and find various ways to work up a thirst for the local pub’s fine ales. Look out for the wood’s carved sculptures. A perfect pub pit-stop for Snowdon.

www.pyg.co.uk 

Thatchers Arms, Essex CO8 5AT

Fordham Hall Estate is host to a major woodland creation scheme which is already beginning to take shape. The local pub often displays its dishes with their food miles attached giving a nod to ecologically minded visitors. In bluebell season seek out Arger Fen and Hillhouse Wood.

www.thatchersarms.co.uk

Watermill Inn, Cumbria LA8 9PY

A real find, this big-hearted pub, with its dog-themed ales is perfect for families, walkers and dog owners alike. Take in the stunning Lake District location and burn off some fabulous pub grub at Skelghyll Wood just a short walk from the centre of Ambleside.  

www.watermillinn.co.uk

And finally...
Many of these pubs welcome families but it's always better to check first, before setting off, to avoid disappointment.