We list the best pubs to warm up in this winter
Is there anything better than wrapping up warm and going for a long walk before snuggling up in front of the fire at a cosy pub? Throw in some tasty food and it sounds like a perfect afternoon to us. If you find yourself out and about this month and in need of somewhere to escape the cold, put one of these pubs on your list to visit…
Pubs in Norfolk
The Gunton Arms
Cromer Road, Thorpe Market, Norwich NR11 8TZ
Take a brisk walk along Cromer beach then hop in the car and make your way down the winding country roads to The Gunton Arms. Perhaps one of Norfolk’s most famous establishments, its deer park location, quirky art, roaring fires and locally sourced food cooked on an open fire in the Elk Room, make this a popular choice for residents and tourists alike. www.theguntonarms.co.uk
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The Wiveton Bell
Blakeney Road, Holt NR25 7TL
The pub boasts several awards for its food including the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs awards, so you are sure to enjoy a fantastic meal. Pop in after a bracing walk along the salt marshes of North Norfolk, which has been listed as a site of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bring along your four-legged friends too to warm up in this cosy traditional style pub. Have a little too much wine? Don’t worry, this pub also comes with stunning accommodation, making an overnight stay a real delight. www.wivetonbell.co.uk
Suffolk Pubs
The Ferry Boat Inn
The Ferry, Felixstowe IP11 9RZ
Following a walk along the coast or through the local countryside, warm up at the cosy bar, relax by the roaring fire and enjoy food and drink in this beautiful old fashioned pub. www.ferryboatinn.org.uk
The Unruly Pig
Orford Rd, Bromeswell, Woodbridge IP12 2PU
If refuelling after a long walk is what you require, book a table at this stylish country pub just outside Woodbridge. The 16th century inn features log burners, oak beams and an impressive menu! There’s certainly no shortage of nearby walks, the pub is located a short distance from the River Deben in Woodbridge, Rendlesham Forest and Sutton Hoo. www.theunrulypig.co.uk
Country pubs in Cambridgeshire
The Crown Inn
8 Duck Street, Elton, Peterborough PE8 6RQ
Set in a beautiful idyllic Wolds village, settle into ‘the snug’ by the big log fire on a wintery night and tuck into delicious homemade food. It’s a dog friendly bar, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join you to warm up after a walk in the countryside. www.thecrowninn.org
The Boot
1 High Street, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9LG
Last year the pub was taken over by celebrity chef Raymond Blanc’s, The White Brasserie Company, and given a new lease of life with country style décor. It’s perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds and traffic of the city. Here you can get comfy in one of the many cosy corners with a drink or tuck into a delicious meal – you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the creativity of the menu. www.boothiston.com
Essex pubs
The Crown & Thistle
High Street, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden CB10 1PL
A favourite with locals and visitors, The Crown & Thistle is a traditional country pub with a stylish touch. Gather around the bar for a drink, where dogs are also welcome, or book yourself a table in the restaurant for a tasty Thai feast. www.thecrownandthistle.pub/
The Square and Compasses
Fuller Street, Fairstead, Chelmsford CM3 2BB
Enjoy a taste of the 17th century in this traditional country pub. With a rustic interior, enjoy a lovely locally sourced meal in an old-worldly setting. www.thesquareandcompasses.co.uk
Country pubs in Hertfordshire
The Cowper Arms
57 Cole Green Lane, Hertford SG14 2NL
The pub has recently undergone a makeover. Surrounded by beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, spend the morning walking along the nearby footpaths, before returning for lunch. The bar area is cosy, there’s seating near the open fire place and the food is delicious. They welcome dogs too, and even have their own doggy biscuit bar! www.thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk
The Alford Arms
Frithsden, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3DD
The pub is nestled in the wooded valley of the Ashridge Forest Estate, so a perfect stop after a long fresh winter walk…especially with their policy of dogs, children and muddy boots welcome. Antique artwork, wooden tables and chairs decorate the pub and an open fire warms the cockles on a cold day. www.alfordarmsfrithsden.co.uk/
