Plough & Harrow
This ancient pub in Monknash in the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales, dates back to 1383 and still retains a sense of its long past. Its characterful interior is a cosy, atmospheric space, awash with historic features including wood-beamed ceilings, open fires and rustic old doorways. It has a great line in local ales and a varied menu of home-cooked food, and its beer garden is an ideal spot to enjoy them, especially after a good hike to build up an appetite. The circular Cwm Nash valley walk is an easy 4.5-mile route, but there are plenty more options to choose from, with the Glamorgan Heritage Coast conveniently close by.
ploughandharrowmonknash.co.uk
The Lister Arms
Occupying a picturesque spot in the heart of Malham in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, The Lister Arms is a Grade II-listed, 18th-century inn with a host of spectacular walks right on its doorstep. Routes encompassing the vertiginous white limestone cliffs of Malham Cove, the enchanting Janet’s Foss waterfall and dramatic Gordale Scar ravine are all easily accessible from Malham, so this historic pub makes a perfect stop-off for a well-earned pint of Thwaites Gold and a hearty, locally sourced lunch after your hike.
And if you want to bring your four-legged friend along, dogs are always welcome in the cosy bar area.
listerarms.co.uk
The Mariners
Take the 5.8-mile circular walk from Rock to Polzeath in Cornwall, enjoying dunes, estuary views and the pretty St Enodoc Church (where poet Sir John Betjeman is buried) along the way. Afterwards, sit back and savour more of Cornwall’s beautiful coastal scenery and some award-winning food on the terrace at The Mariners in Rock – part of chef Paul Ainsworth’s celebrated collection of eateries. As you might expect from the location, there’s a focus on local seafood, though there are also lots of options to ensure that meat eaters, veggies and vegans are catered for, too – plus ales on tap from Sharp’s Brewery in the village.
the-mariners.co.uk
The Ship Inn
The 62 miles that make up the Northumberland Coast Path stretch from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north, covering rocky headlands, dramatic crumbling castles and vast sandy beaches. The fishing village, Low Newton by the Sea, sits above a tempting sweep of beach and makes an excellent starting point for a scenic spring wander. Walk south across Embleton Bay towards the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, then return to the village for refreshments at The Ship Inn, just off the sand. Grab a bite to eat (perhaps a crab and salad stottie) or sample one of the ales brewed at the inn’s very own microbrewery.
shipinnnewton.co.uk
The Fife Arms
A striking artwork by American artist James Prosek makes for an iconic symbol of The Flying Stag, the public bar at The Fife Arms in Braemar, Aberdeenshire. Made up of a ptarmigan’s wings affixed to a stuffed stag, Prosek’s hybrid creature soars above the bar – a remarkable spectacle and a taste of the way art is central to the experience at this hotel, which is owned by the founders of Hauser & Wirth art galleries, Iwan and Manuela Wirth. Beyond the art, the warm Highland welcome and the delicious food, The Fife Arms also enjoys easy access to a myriad of walking routes from its position in the Cairngorms National Park.
thefifearms.com
The Barrington Boar
The pretty village of Barrington in South Somerset is surrounded by picture-perfect countryside and, as such, it’s a perfect starting point for spring walks, whether it’s a gentle amble around the local area or a more strenuous hike. For wonderful views across the Somerset Levels, take the route to the top of Burrow Hill, with an optional diversion to check out the orchards and vintages at Burrow Hill Cider on the way back. The Barrington Boar is a top choice for dining, before or after your jaunt – helmed by chef Alasdair Clifford, the food here is excellent and ingredients are sourced from carefully chosen producers across the South West.
thebarringtonboar.co.uk
