Category: Holiday Ideas

The best pubs with exceptional views in Britain

When deciding where to go on your next holiday why not include some quirky and historic pubs into your search criteria? If you’re looking for pubs that combine history, great food, and spectacular views, you should consider heading to some of the UK’s highest inns. There is nothing better than a long country walk followed by a roast dinner and a pint of local ale next to a roaring fire with a spectacular view. From the captivating scenery of Dartmoor to the stunning dales of North Yorkshire, these traditional pubs offer more than just a pint.

The Tan Hill Inn

Located at 1,732 feet above sea level, the Tan Hill Inn is the highest pub in Britain. Situated in Swaledale in the North Yorkshire Dales it offers stunning views of the surrounding moors. Dating back to the 17th century, the Tan Hill Inn has plenty of traditional features such as exposed beams and stone-flagged floors. It also offers delicious food, a cosy fire and a welcoming atmosphere.

Given the Tan Hill Inn’s location it makes a great base for outdoor activities. If you are looking to work up an appetite before reaching the pub you can walk the scenic 6 miles from Keld (make sure you visit the waterfalls at Keld before you head off) to Tan Hill. Alternatively, why not cycle to the top of Tan Hill! Other outdoor activities in the area include rock climbing, caving, kayaking and canoeing.

Find more information about our cottages in the Yorkshire Dales here.

Wanlockhead Inn

The highest pub in Scotland – and the third highest in the UK – is the Wanlockhead Inn in Dumfries and Galloway. Sitting at 1,531 feet above sea level, the pub is surrounded by the stunning views of the Lowther Hills. Offering hearty pub grub, real ale and a beer garden for the summer months and a roaring fire for the winter, this is a great place to visit at any time of the year. The cherry on the cake is the family run Lola Brewery, based in the Wanlockhead Inn, which brews the fantastic Lola Rose (or Red Ale).

Wanlockhead is a former mining village and there is a fascinating Museum of Lead Mining for anyone who is interested in the story of the local history. Alternatively, explore the beautiful Mennock either on foot, bike or car. Just watch out for the sheep!

Find more information about holiday cottages in Dumfries and Galloway here.

Warren House Inn

Sitting at 1425 feet above sea level, the quirky Warren House Inn is the highest pub in southern England. Whilst it may not enjoy the same altitude as some of the other ‘higher’ pubs in the UK, standing isolated and remote on the high moorland it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday live. The moorland beer garden is the perfect spot to admire the views with a drink. Or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and hearty grub by the fire on chillier days.

The Inn is subject to many local myths so make sure you find out about the local folklore when visiting. For those interested in prehistoric landmarks you can visit the triple stone row on Challacombe Down or the Chagford Common Stone Row on Hurston Ridge. The area is also fantastic for hiking. Wonder up to Birch Tor for great views or for a longer walk you can loop around Challcombe Down.

Find a cosy cottage to stay in the Dartmoor National Park here

The New Inn

Located in the village of Flash, and sitting at 1518 feet, the The New Inn claims to be the highest ‘village’ pub in England. With over 250 years of history this traditional pub now has a modern interior with a cosy woodburner and friendly atmosphere. Sitting on the southern slope of Axe Edge Moor in the Peak District National Park it is surrounded by wild open countryside. It will come as no surprise that there are superb views in all directions including over the Staffordshire moorlands, the Derbyshire hills and the Cheshire plain. 

With a wealth of outdoor activities on your doorstep in the fantastic Peak District National Park you will have an endless choice of things to do. Explore the 13 mile traffic free Tissington Trail, go rock climbing, bouldering or caving. Alternatively, hop on your bike and explore the area on two wheels. The iconic town of Buxton with its famous Opera House and independent shops is only five miles away if you fancy getting out your walking shoes for a day.

Find a range of holiday accommodation in the Peak District here.

Ty Coch Inn

Located at sea level, the Ty Coch Inn on the Llyn Peninsula in north Wales is bucking the trend here, but what it lacks in height it certainly makes up for by its unique position and spectacular scenery. With views across the Irish sea towards the mountains and a sandy beach for a beer garden this little gem is certainly located in an idyllic spot. With no vehicular access the only way to reach the pub is via a walk along the beach, or a cliff top walk through the golf course above.   

Sitting on the Wales Coastal Path you can walk in either direction from the pub to enjoy the coastal views. It is a stunning section of the coast to explore – keep your eyes peeled for grey seals and dolphins on the way. The area is also great for cycling, kayaking, coasteering, surfing and wild swimming so there are plenty of actives to build up a pre pint appetite!

You can find local places to stay in Gwynedd to stay here

If you’re looking to add to your UK travel bucket list, then be sure to include some of the highest and most unusual pubs. The combination of fascinating history, great food and beautiful landscapes is certainly hard to beat.

You can find a list of all our holiday lets that are located close to a  pub here

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.