Foodie Pubs in Northumberland Perfect for a Weekend Breakaway
These Northumberland pubs have charm by the bucketload
The Lord Crewe
In brief: A chic and contemporary pub with stunning rooms just a short stroll from the award-winning beach at Bamburgh.
Our highlight: The Lord Crewe’s prime position in the shadow of the iconic Bamburgh Castle, only a stone’s throw from the stunning sandy beach (there’s a great golf course nearby too).
Insider guide: Inside this AA-accredited Five Star accommodation, right in the heart of the pretty village, there are seven individually-designed bedrooms (several including window seats so you can soak up the views) and they are all stocked with little luxuries. Downstairs, the cosy bar serves cocktails and wine, as well as local ales, while in the dining room you can enjoy locally-caught seafood including Lindisfarne oysters, lobster Thermidor, or a great fish pie, all of which has earned them an AA Rosette for culinary excellence.
Front Street, Bamburgh, Northumberland NE69 7BL
01668 214243
lord-crewe.co.uk
The Percy Arms
In brief: A dog-friendly country pub with luxury accommodation in rural Northumberland.
Our highlight: The views over the Cheviot Hills are second to none.
Insider guide: The Percy Arms can be found in the idyllic village of Chatton. Each of the five ensuite bedrooms has a unique country-cottage style and is furnished with a super-king bed and lots of little welcoming extras. In the restaurant and bar, traditional, homemade dishes are served alongside local ales. In the spring enjoy the outdoor spaces, soaking up the views, and on colder days cosy up by the roaring fires.
Main Road, Chatton NE66 5PS
01668 215244
percyarmschatton.co.uk
The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest
In brief: A historic pub which has been given a new lease of life.
Our highlight: Head chef Connor Wilson cooking up everything from pig’s head croquettes and roast grouse to hand-dived scallops and classic fish and chips, landing them a spot in the 2024 Michelin Guide.
Insider guide: You’ll find this characterful gastropub in the beautiful countryside on the borders of Cumbria and Northumberland, with a game-led menu that has seasonality and sustainability at its core. All produce and ingredients are sourced within 50 miles of the pub and their field-to-fork philosophy is reflected in their staple pub classics, as well as their newly-released tasting menu. The four bedrooms are all ensuite with king-sized beds and power showers, with luxurious touches such as bathrobes and sustainable local toiletries too.
Slaggyford, Brampton CA8 7PB
01434 671526
theksi.co.uk
The Elk’s Head
In brief: A riverside pub in the foothills of the North Pennines.
Our highlight: Their shooting parties – specialising in traditional country sports, the team is on hand to make sure your event goes off without a hitch.
Insider guide: This is a great base for exploring, ideally placed between the Lake District, Northumberland and the stunning North Yorkshire countryside. After a day out and about, relax in one of 10 comfortable, bespoke bedrooms. Award-winning chef Rob Harrison doesn’t mess around when it comes to food so you can expect an elevated dining experience using only the best local produce. Their drinks menu is just as impressive, with a great range of guest ales and spirits available.
Whitfield, Hexham NE47 8HD
01434 345282
theelkshead.com
The Whittling House
In brief: A delightful country restaurant with 10 luxurious bedrooms.
Our highlight: The nearby beach which is ideal for an after-dinner stroll.
Insider guide: Making it onto The Times’ Best Places To Stay List 2023, you can be sure of a relaxing stay here. Whether you would like to pop in for a drink after a long walk along Alnmouth beach, sample a cocktail, enjoy a quick bite to eat from the lunch menu or feast on their a la carte menu packed with local produce and delicious dishes, there is something for everyone. Choose from a range of comfortable rooms like their King Studio, which includes a cosy living area and a luxurious king bed.
Northumberland Street, Alnmouth NE66 2RA
01665 463001
thewhittlinghouse.co.uk
Lord Crewe Arms
In brief: A hugely popular historic hotel in the pretty village of Blanchland.
Our highlight: The Crypt, a snug spot to enjoy a tipple, tucked away in a medieval, vaulted chamber.
Insider guide: Choose from 26 luxurious rooms including their cosy suites which are perfect for couples wanting to hide away. This is also one of the finest places to dine in Northumberland whether you choose to indulge in the carefully-curated dishes in The Bishop’s Dining Room or opt for a cosier, more relaxed meal by the fire in The Hilyard. Head chef Paul Johnson has recently joined the team and is dedicated to showcasing the best local produce on his menus. Enjoy the local area with Lord Crewe Arms as your base, with Derwent Reservoir and Hadrian’s Wall country only a short drive away.
The Square, Blanchland DH8 9SP
01434 677100
lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk
The Red Lion Inn
In brief: A traditional 18th century coaching inn, in the pretty coastal village of Alnmouth.
Our highlight: Their unique garden bar which has a viewing platform overlooking the estuary.
Insider guide: Enjoy the relaxed and happy atmosphere of this cosy, family-owned inn. Use the inn as a base to explore the stunning Northumbrian countryside and coast, and after a long day rest your head in one of their eight comfortable rooms. The food here is unpretentious and packs a punch – make sure you stop by for their fantastic Sunday lunch with all the trimmings. In warmer weather, the garden bar is not one to miss, with a great range of drinks and breathtaking views of the local scenery.
Northumberland Street, Alnmouth NE66 2RJ
01665 830584
redlionalnmouth.com
The Black Bull Inn
In brief: A premium country inn, just a stone’s throw from the historic town of Berwick.
Our highlight: The bar – a warm and welcoming space with a cosy log-burning fire and a great choice of real ale and keg beers.
Insider guide: A relaxed yet comfortable inn offering a choice of 12 luxury rooms which are named after local valleys, rivers, hills and castles. The restaurant serves great dishes including all of your favourite British classics – think beer-battered cod and chips and sticky toffee pudding served with a delicious butterscotch sauce. Make sure to take time to explore the nearby historic town of Berwick during your stay.
Main Street, Lowick TD15 2UA
01289 388375
blackbulllowick.co.uk
