ENGLAND

The General Tarleton, North Yorkshire

Tommy Banks, a renowned chef from Yorkshire, is best known for the Michelin-starred Black Swan at Oldstead. His pub roots trace back to his family-run establishment, where he started behind the bar. In 2023, he expanded into pub restoration through his hospitality venture, beginning with the reopening of the General Tarleton in Ferrensby, near Harrogate. This eight-room inn offers elevated pub favourites crafted with regional ingredients – think hearty steak pies made with Black Sheep ale and burgers from Dexter beef raised on Banks' farm. It’s ideally situated for scenic hikes along the nearby river and into the picturesque Nidd Gorge. Doubles from £175 B&B.

The Bat and Ball, Oxfordshire

Located in the village of Cuddesdon, this cosy pub is known for its warm welcome and canine-friendly ethos. It’s a laid-back counterpart to the Lamb Inn in Little Milton, run by the same team who trained at the distinguished Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. The Bat and Ball focuses on classic pub dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Its five rooms reflect the surrounding countryside with bold autumnal hues. Nestled between the Cotswolds and Chilterns, it’s the perfect launching point for rustic rambles. Doubles from £140 B&B.

King’s Arms, Lake District

Reopened in late summer, this welcoming pub sits at the centre of Hawkshead village, immersed in literary and local history. The 17th-century building retains original details such as exposed beams and stone flooring. Traditional dishes like Cumberland scotch eggs and beef wellington are served alongside local brews, including Coniston Old Man Ale. A walk up Latterbarrow nearby is a perfect prelude to a comforting meal. Doubles from £145 B&B.

The Wellington at Boscastle, Cornwall

This storied coastal inn, fondly called The Welly, offers views of the rugged harbour in Boscastle. Following a significant investment from St Austell Brewery, the renovated space boasts cosy snugs and eye-catching stained glass. Two turret rooms include freestanding baths, while all 14 feature local artwork and walking guides. Coastal trails lead in both directions—from scenic waterfalls to the legendary Tintagel Castle. After your hike, relax with fish and chips made from local catch and a pint by the fire. Doubles from £145 B&B.

The Woolpack Inn, Hampshire

Set in the quiet hamlet of Totford in the Candover Valley, this pub recently underwent a stylish revamp by interior designer Nina Campbell. Surrounded by nature, chef Luke Stradling sources produce from surrounding fields and the pub's own garden, which also donates a portion of its harvest to nearby charities. Game birds lend their names to the inn’s eight rooms, while nearby the River Itchen offers renowned fly-fishing opportunities. Doubles from £100 B&B.

The Fleur de Lys, Dorset

This 17th-century pub in Cranborne was once frequented by Thomas Hardy and even mentioned in his novels. Now managed by Chickpea, known for transforming countryside pubs, it maintains its historic charm, with open fireplaces and hops draped across the beams. The nine rooms upstairs are stylish yet understated. Rambles across the Cranborne estate await, with hearty meals like sea bass and venison chops waiting back at the pub. Doubles from £120 B&B.

The Penny Bun, North Yorkshire

Tucked between Ilkley and Otley in the Yorkshire Dales, the Penny Bun is anything but traditional, eschewing brass fixtures for earthy minimalism. Set within the Denton Reserve—a vast estate focussed on sustainability—the pub draws ingredients from its regenerative farms. Expect seasonal dishes like Tamworth pork croquettes or beetroot gnocchi. The pub’s five bedrooms continue the tranquil aesthetic, ideal after a day hiking Ilkley Moor. Doubles from £180 room-only.

The Ship, Norfolk

In the seaside village of Brancaster, sisters Siobhan and Caitriona Peyton have breathed new life into this historic inn just a short walk from the beach. The carefully curated menu has coastal and seasonal flairs, spotlighting game in autumn. Think slow-roasted venison on Sundays and monkfish scampi at the bar. With massive skies and walking trails through dunes and marshes, it’s a breathtaking setting year-round. Doubles from £145 B&B.

The Leicester Arms, Kent

Opposite the entrance to Penshurst Place, this handsome Grade II-listed pub was recently refurbished. With deep leather seating and real ales by the fire, it delivers comfort and character. The menu draws inspiration from local ingredients, featuring Kent lamb and Whitstable oysters. The 11 rooms include heritage-style décor and several with roll-top tubs—perfect after exploring nearby river paths and ancient oaks. Doubles from £150 B&B.

The Swan, West Sussex

After a lengthy renovation, this historic 14th-century coaching inn in Fittleworth has been gracefully modernised without losing its soul. The Swan features a blend of medieval elements with contemporary style. The restaurant serves refined dishes showcasing foraged and local produce, with hearty breakfasts served in a rustic barn. Trace the footsteps of historic guests like JMW Turner before heading out for antique hunting or a walk in the South Downs. Doubles from £195 B&B.

The Nevill Arms, Leicestershire

Located in the pretty village of Medbourne, this refreshed inn in the Welland Valley maintains a country feel with rooms spread across the main building and converted stables. Local meats come straight from the owner's farm, and the bar serves favourites from Langton Brewery. The peaceful surroundings and planned addition of a family cottage make this a smart, affordable retreat. Doubles from £155 B&B.

New Inn Yealand, Lancashire

In the village of Yealand Conyers, husband and wife duo Ben and Lauren Sandiford have transformed this seven-room inn into a spot for elevated comfort food and warm hospitality. The bar welcomes muddy boots and wagging tails, while hearty plates are served by the fire. Explore nearby nature reserves like RSPB Leighton Moss or venture to the scenic shoreline of Morecambe Bay. Doubles from £144 B&B.

The Merry Harriers, Surrey

Nestled in Hambledon in the Surrey Hills, this pub is now in the hands of local professionals-turned-publicans Sam Fiddian-Green and Alex Winch. Despite their Michelin roots, they’ve retained its pub essence—raffles included—while the kitchen serves up comforting favourites made with ingredients from Fiddian-Green’s family estate. The four bedrooms above the pub offer a calm retreat, with more garden-facing rooms under renovation. Doubles from £140 B&B.

The George at Hathersage, Peak District

Steeped in literary history, this Peak District inn was once visited by Charlotte Brontë and inspired scenes from Jane Eyre. With 24 rooms, including the evocative Lady C Suite, the George makes an ideal base to explore walking trails. Start your day with a brisk swim at the heated outdoor lido, followed by a traditional English breakfast. Doubles from £93 B&B.

Ancient Shepherds, Cambridgeshire

The Ancient Shepherds in Fen Ditton dates back to 1540 and offers a fascinating mix of age-old charm and refined dining. Four rooms sit behind the main pub, where chef Mark Poynton curates tasting menus designed to minimise waste. Located just a short riverside walk from Cambridge, or in the other direction to the quaint village of Horningsea, it’s a delightful base for countryside and city exploring. Doubles from £94 room-only.

The Gaskell Arms, Shropshire

Set in Much Wenlock, a town linked to the origins of the modern Olympics, this historic inn has welcomed a new team of owners. With 14 rooms, the Gaskell Arms is ideal for walkers tackling the area’s limestone trails, or for those tracing the Olympic heritage route. Hearty meals and local ales help visitors refuel after a day’s exploration. Doubles from £92 B&B.

The Royal Forest, London

Perched beside Epping Forest near Chingford, the Royal Forest is a grand 28-room inn close to the Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge. Part of a growing chain that prioritises eco-friendly sourcing, it serves up generous roast dinners—perfect after hiking the looping forest trails. Interiors are inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, offering a comfortable haven after woodland walks. Doubles from £119 B&B.