As a country that's known for its many, many great pubs, finding the best ones can sometimes feel like an extreme sport. We're sure there are countless lists and spreadsheets of people's favourites bouncing around the digital stratosphere, but all you really need in the colder months is this one-stop-shop roundup of the ultimate cosy pubs in the UK. Find the venues that are guaranteed to give you that warm fuzzy feeling this autumn and winter...
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 16th December 2024
Escape the hustle and bustle and retreat to The Lamb Inn, where time seems to slow down. This charming Somerset pub combines the comforts of home with the pleasures of a countryside getaway.
Enjoy hearty meals crafted with love, a pint or two of local ale, and the warm hospitality that makes this spot a favourite for locals and travellers alike. Whether you're popping in for a midweek meal or making a weekend of it, The Lamb Inn is a slice of rustic bliss.
Waxy O'Connor's is Glasgow's answer to the ultimate Irish pub experience. Drink whisky and Guinness among dramatic church-style decor featuring stained glass and vintage lanterns. Find a quiet corner across one of the three floors or get involved in some good old-fashioned debauchery in the throes of the crowd.
Keep out of the cold over at The Bell Fetcham, a contemporary and stylish boozer with a cosy, traditional vibe. Settle into one of the cushy Chesterfield sofas or by the fireplace and delve into hearty British classics and real ales.
The Bird In Hand is a delightful pub and hotel located in the picturesque village of Knowl Hill, Berkshire. This charming establishment, once a hunting lodge for King George III, features cosy 14th-century features and a welcoming atmosphere. With its delicious food, dog-friendly policy, and family-friendly amenities, The Bird In Hand is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a memorable stay.
Located in the picturesque town of Frome in Somerset, The Archangel is a historic pub that's been around since 1311 - even mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Expect cosy, traditional interiors, featuring exposed brick walls, comfy leather sofas and a roaring fireplace.
Tuck into the likes of buttermilk fried chicken burgers, aubergine and chickpea curry or seasonal pies here, paired with a refreshing pint. Plus, there are bespoke bedrooms if you fancy making a weekend of it.
Complete with cosy fireplaces and wooden interiors, The bottle & Glass id a charming country pub serving tasty eats and a great range of drinks. The menu includes wood-fired pizzas and ever-changing seasonal dishes, with a fantastic beer garden available for the summer months.
This historic courthouse from the 16th century has been transformed into a classic British pub with charming decor, snug seating, and crackling fires all around. The Mill's menu focuses on locally sourced produce, serving freshly made dishes that change with the seasons. And when it comes to drinks, they've got a top-notch selection of their own brews and ciders, plus a whole list of fancy cocktails and wines.
Nestled on one of Southport's main routes, The Richmond boasts a spacious beer garden perfect for a laid-back afternoon or a sunny gathering. With seating at the rear and a charming decking area at the front, this outdoor oasis pairs well with their award-winning Joseph Holt ales.
Whether you're enjoying a family meal, relaxing with friends, or soaking up the seaside vibes, the beer garden provides a welcoming escape that complements the pub's friendly atmosphere.
Tucked away in the beautiful Weald of Kent, The Goudhurst Inn serves up a seasonal menu brimming with pub classics. This boozer blends contemporary culinary methods with classic pub fare, offering a menu that embraces both traditional favourites and sophisticated modern dishes. And if that's not enough, you can also savour homemade, stone-baked, sourdough pizzas.
A charming 15th-century coaching inn located right be the 11th-century Selby Abbey, The George Inn is a popular spot in this North Yorkshire town. It's a great choice for meals out, relaxed drinks or even a weekend getaway, thanks to their 25 cosy bedrooms.
Expect traditional interiors with comfy seating options, TV screens and even a pool table. And if you're hungry, tuck into the likes of loaded jacket potatoes, spicy chicken burgers or steak and ale pie.
The clue's in the name with Village Inn - it's a friendly local pub found in the heart of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Look out over the Arrochar Alps and the beautiful waters of Loch Long from the traditional space, which is filled with rustic furnishings, wooden beams and fairy lights.
They're cooking up the likes of smoked haddock fishcakes, beef and pork lasagne or glazed mushroom burgers here, as well as spectacular Sunday roasts. You can pair these with local ales, fine wines or a choice of whiskies.
Escape to New Forest and stay in one of the best country pubs with rooms in the UK. The White Buck Inn is enticing holidaymakers with brooding interiors, a grand brick fireplace and a whole damn sandwich menu to keep you full until dinner. And the ever-changing drinks menu means there's always something new to try, from seasonal ales to exclusive wines.
Proudly holding a Cask Marque accreditation, the Stag Inn is a relaxed and friendly pub that fronts traditional, cosy interiors. Think comfy leather seating and patterned carpets, with a spacious beer garden for the summer months.
You can watch Sky and TNT Sports on their multiple HD screens, with dartboards for a little added entertainment, all while sipping on great beer or cocktails.
The Ship Inn is a cosy boozer in Sussex bursting with charm. Their menu is a mix of old-school favourites and modern munchies, from hearty pies and mash to the iconic fish and chips, as well as lip-smacking Sunday roasts and seafood feasts. And to wash it all down, they have a top-notch wine list showcasing the best English wine from their award-winning Balfour Winery.
The Windmill is a welcoming pub known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food. They are dedicated to using fresh, locally sourced British ingredients to serve traditional pub classics with a contemporary twist, and they are renowned for their summer BBQs in the pub garden. You can enjoy their food alongside a selection of Balfour Wines and stay in their recently refurbished bedrooms for a comfortable overnight stay.
If the cold weather is making it ever so tempting to type "best cosy pubs with fireplaces in the UK" into Google, The Metropolitan in South Manchester is the place for you. Keep warm while tucking into a mouthwatering Sunday roast and making your way through cask ales or malt whiskies in a traditional setting.
The Crown Hotel is a traditional pub in the heart of Huddersfield that promises a lively atmosphere and cosy interiors. Relax on one of their plush leather booths to watch Sky or TNT Sports, or just enjoy a relaxed drink with friends or family.
This is also a great choice for pub dining, with a wide variety of dishes to choose from - think chicken tikka masala, vegan Bombay burgers and mac 'n' cheese, to name a few.
As one of the longest-standing pubs in Brighton, The Victory really knows how to do classic drinking right. With its vintage framed pictures and ship memorabilia, this timeless spot has nailed the traditional atmosphere, keeping its customers coming back for more of its charm.
The Old House Inn dates back to the 16th century and features latticed windows, a cosy log fire, and exposed oak beams. It serves classic pub grub made with top-notch local ingredients and one of the best Sunday roasts in the area. The menu features goodies like Castlemead Farm chicken Milanese, Butcombe Gold beer-battered haddock and thick-cut chips, and seabass niçoise with roasted baby potatoes.
Bel & The Dragon in Wendover is one of the best pubs with rooms in the UK. You'll want to book a weekend stay as soon as you step inside; think homely interiors, a huge food menu and laid-back vibes that extend out into the twinkly terrace.
If you find yourself in the Leamington Spa area, then be sure to check out The Old Library. This relaxed space flaunts exposed brick walls, high ceilings and shelves filled with all sorts of interesting artefacts. Plus, there are multiple TV screens showing live sport.
They offer a wide variety of drinks, from infused gins to ales on tap, paired with all kinds of scrumptious eats. Indulge in the likes of loaded chilli nachos, blue cheese beef burgers, breaded scampi and more.
Located in the coastal town of Colwyn Bay in North Wales, The Station is a friendly local boozer that's filled with rustic wooden furniture, dartboards and HD screens showing live sport thanks to Sky. There are comfy armchairs to relax in, while sipping on cask ales, beer and wine.
You can also enjoy a wide variety of hearty eats here, ranging from beef and pork lasagne to katsu chicken curry or mac 'n' cheese.
Located in the Great Budworth area of Northwich, Cock O' Budworth is found in a beautiful Grade II-listed building that's been around since the 17th century. Expect charming interiors full of cosy leather seats and exposed brick walls at this dog-friendly boozer, with a spacious beer garden to boot. You'll find heart pub fare on the menu, as well as a cracking selection of award-winning lagers and ales, alongside premium wines and spirits.
Looking for a venue that combines history with a lively atmosphere? The Swan Inn is your perfect destination for gatherings of all kinds. Whether you're planning a birthday celebration, a corporate event, or a casual get-together, this beautiful pub offers a welcoming space for you and your guests.
Enjoy the delicious food crafted from seasonal ingredients such as cider-glazed pork chop or silky gnocchi, sip on expertly brewed craft beers, and soak up the picturesque surroundings. With its blend of charm and hospitality, it ensures a memorable experience for all.
A cosy pub in the UK that's also by the coast? Breathe in the fresh sea air and visit The Ship Inn on your next trip to Portsmouth. Look out onto the harbour from the fairy-lit, dog-friendly outdoor seating area, or make your way inside for dark wood furnishings, a roaring fire and weekly pub quizzes.
The Rising Sun is a cosy pub in the centre of Backwell, just a short distance from the popular seaside resort of Weston-Super-Mare and the famous Cheddar Gorge. Not only is it conveniently located, but has been tastefully refurbished to retain elements like open fires while also being modern.
Expect menus of British pub grub with a gastro leaning, as well as pints of Butcombe beer, ale or cider.
As one of the best country pubs in the UK, this is a drinking den that all Surrey-dwellers should know about. From a first visit it's clear to see why The Cock Inn is award-winning; rustic yet bright and modern interiors provide the perfect backdrop for weekend catch-ups, all fuelled by craft beers, international wines and roast dinners.
Serving up locally sourced food and award-winning wines from Balfour Winery, The Falcon Inn is a great choice of gastro pub in the Cotswolds area, found in the gorgeous town of Painswick. This cosy spot boasts a traditional bar and a huge dining room, with rustic features throughout.
They've even got a number of bespoke bedrooms if you're looking to stay the night. As for the menu? Expect everything from whole roasted plaice with samphire to king oyster mushroom broth or a double cheeseburger.
Cosy country pubs with accommodation don't get much better than The Crown & Punchbowl. Perched on the outskirts of Cambridge, take in the peaceful surroundings before retreating to the charming interiors of this Grade ll listed building. Enjoy locally-brewed ales, fresh fish and a crackling fire to round off your rural experience.
The Half Moon is a traditional country pub in the village of Windlesham, flaunting cosy interiors and a friendly atmosphere. Sink into one of their comfy leather armchairs by the fire, or take a seat in the sunny beer garden, to enjoy seasonal menus and a cracking selection of real ales.
Tuck into Shropshire chicken kievs, cyder-battered haddock with chips or broccoli and pea tagliatelle, followed by an indulgent sticky toffee pudding.
The Royal Oak is a charming countryside watering hole tucked away in East Lavant, housing five charming bedrooms and two pretty cottages. Serving up good vibes and delicious eats for over two centuries, their menu is packed with hearty pub grub crafted from the freshest local goods, while their bar boasts a stellar lineup of cask ales, craft beers, local ciders, and a superb selection of wines to wet your whistle. Craving some sun? Step into their beer garden for some chill-out time, perfect for relaxing in the sunshine with a pint (or two).
Sat in the heart of the city, The Albion is providing a beer-fuelled escape from fast-moving London life. This warm and friendly boozer fronts an extensive array of drinks, including award-winning ales and a whole host of wines to pair with a banging dish from the British food menu. If you search 'cosy pubs near me' and spot this in the list – look no further.
Nestled in the heart of Kent, The Woolpack Tenterden – or 'The Woolly' as the locals fondly call it – is a charming country pub. With cosy, intimate rooms ideal for an overnight stay and a restaurant dishing up hearty comfort food, it's the perfect countryside retreat. This 15th-century gem also boasts a large beer garden and a separate bar. On the menu? Think burrata, Padron peppers, flat iron steak with mushroom duxelles, and a whole baked Camembert to share.
At Crowd Of Favours, you'll find a relaxed and inviting pub with plenty of windows to let in the light. They've got a truckload of beers to choose from, including brews from Tooth and Claw and local favourites like Turning Point, Brew York, and Roosters. And when it comes to cocktails, they've got all the classics covered - think espresso martini, margarita, and the Sloe Gin Fizz.
The perfect place to relax and unwind in cosy surroundings, Cat and Lion is a historic boozer with a spacious layout. It serves delicious food and drinks, including pub classics and international flavours like chicken tikka masala and Moroccan spiced skewers. You'll also find HD screens scattered throughout, showing the latest in sport and dart boards tucked in the corner if you would rather be a part of the action.
Between the cosy borders of Wiltshire and Dorset, you'll find The King John Inn, a gorgeous British country retreat perfect for a snug staycation. Bring your friends, your pooch, your partner - you name it - everyone's welcome within its charming walls. You'll find eleven boutique rooms to choose from and a menu that features pub classics made using locally sourced produce. Think ox cheek Wellingtons, Butcombe Gold beer-battered fish and chips, and so much more.
Alexander Pope is a stylish Twickenham pub located close to the Thames. The menu features British classics like fish'n'chips, Sunday roasts and hearty pies, to be enjoyed while watching the rugby or on the lively outdoor terrace.
The Bull, Hellesdon is a warm, welcoming boozer on the outskirts of Norwich. you'll find cosy leather seating and a traditional fireplace here, as well as HD screens showing all the latest action on TNT Sports.
Enjoy a perfectly poured pint of real ale here, alongside a cracking selection of cocktails. Plus, they're cooking up tasty eats like chicken and pancetta pie, mushroom Wellington or Monterey Jack and bacon burgers.
Thomas Hardy fan? You're in for a treat at this local gem in Dorset, the inspiration behind The Sow and Acorn in Tess of the d'Urbervilles. The Acorn Inn is a charming 16th-century coaching inn nestled in the village of Evershot, right between Beaminster and Cerne Abbas. With ten stylish bedrooms that ooze rustic charm and a restaurant serving locally sourced gastropub classics, this is a tavern like no other.
Housed in a Grade II-listed building that was once a coach house, The Rose can be found in the centre of Bedford. It's got both a spacious beer garden and cosy interiors - complete with exposed brick walls, five HD plasma screens showing live sport and comfy leather seating.
They serve a wide range of spirits, craft beers and carefully curated cocktails, alongside a scrumptious menu. Tuck into the likes of stone-baked pizzas, juicy burgers and loaded fries, and they even do bottomless brunches too.
Murdos Bar is a top pick of cosy places to hunker down in, whether you're after somewhere with warming pies, Scottish breakfasts or other classics. But that's not all, as there's darts and sports playing live across the screens, making it one of the best cosy pubs in the UK for couples who plan their dates around game days.
The Ring O' Bells can be found in a picturesque village in Somerset, close to both Chew Valley Lake and Blagdon Lake. Popular with dog walkers, pub quizzers and live music fans, there's something for everyone in this traditional spot - which dates back to the 16th century.
Expect all sorts of award-winning beer, ale and cider alongside classic dishes like pie of the week or buttermilk fried chicken burgers. Plus, there's a sunny beer garden to enjoy in the warmer months.
The Pinewoods can be found in the seaside town of Formby, located on the North Western coast above Liverpool. The dog-friendly pub is a quaint, countryside-style venue, complete with rustic wooden interiors and a well-stocked bar.
Not only can you enjoy a wide range of ales and gins here, but they're also whipping up tasty dishes such as hand-battered fish and chips, steak and ale pie or juicy burgers.
The Lamb in Hindon is one of those beautiful boutique pubs with rooms to stay in for when you (inevitably) don't want to leave. Stylish furnishings, exposed brick walls and a glowing fire make up the irresistible interiors of this quaint village boozer. You can also dine on some amazing dishes from breakfast to dessert.
If you're seeking picturesque beer gardens, Ye Olde Bridge Inn is making a splash with its beautiful dining domes and rustic ambience. Emphasising the use of local produce, the kitchen skillfully crafts a range of dishes, from Asian fusion to traditional British fare.
Roaring wood burners, exposed brick and other original features make up the country pub-cum-industrial feel at d'Parys. This stylish boozer not only has British classics to fill up on, but also cosy rooms complete with free-standing tubs too.
Painted bright blue and brimming with pint-lovers, it's hard for The Fentiman Arms not to attract attention. It's a go-to for live sports and good vibes, but also has a homely feel thanks to the snug lounging areas and epic comfort food menu. If you ask us, anyone should feel lucky to have this South West London stunner as their local.
Popular among locals, the Windmill Inn is a charming pub in the Oakwood area of Derby. You can bring along both kids and dogs until 9pm, both in their cosy interior and in the spacious beer garden. Expect wooden beams, leather seating and pretty fairy lights surrounding the bar, with plenty of space to drink and dine in.
You can get involved in everything from darts to bingo and weekly quizzes here, while sipping on Cask Mark accredited real ales. Plus, you can enjoy a tasty menu full of barbecue mac 'n' cheese burgers, all-day breakfasts and Thai vegetable curry.
Bear of Burton is bound to be a favourite Dorset discovery if you've been endlessly researching the cosiest seaside pubs with rooms for your next staycation. It's just a 10 minute drive from Avon beach, so you can spend the day by the sea before drying off in this gorgeous watering hole complete with eclectic decorations, live music and a winning breakfast menu.
Unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of The Crown in Aston End. The picture-perfect garden is kitted out with comfy seats and fire pits, while the inside boasts leather Chesterfield sofas and decorative rugs for that cosy vintage look. Wood-fired pizzas and chicken roasted outside on the rotisserie grill are just some of the foodie highlights.
A traditional Scottish boozer in the heart of Paisley, The Bull Inn is a relaxed spot for drinking and dining in cosy surrounds. Think wooden beams on the walls and ceilings, as well as plush leather booths and armchairs and a number of HD screens showing live sport.
They offer a selection of fantastic real ales, as well as 50% off cocktails and affordable eats to accompany your tipples.
Nestled in Spinningfields, The Oast House is the ultimate snug pub for winter hangouts. Whether you're up for kicking back with friends in the outdoor teepee decked out in faux fur throws and fairy lights while enjoying a steaming bowl of fondue or craving a satisfying Sunday roast indoors, this foodie hotspot is bound to delight.
The Old Crown may be one of Birmingham's oldest pubs, but you can bet it's lost none of its charm. Attracting punters from all walks of life with a diverse range of events, from quizzes to coffee clubs and garden parties, you'll always feel welcome at this old-school boozer.
