Best Cosy Pubs In The UK

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 Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 4th November 2024




Northwich: Cock O' Budworth

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.

Kent: The Windmill

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.

Cotswolds: The Falcon Inn

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.

Aston End: The Crown

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. 

Aberdeen: Murdos Bar

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. 

Haslemere: The Mill

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.

Manchester: The Metropolitan

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. 

London: Alexander Pope

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.

Berkshire: The Bird In Hand

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.

New Forest: The White Buck Inn

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. 

Wiltshire: The King John Inn

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.

Copthorne: The Old House

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.

Somerset: The Swan Inn

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.

Surrey: Half Moon

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.

Dorset: The Acorn Inn

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.

Leeds: Crowd Of Favours

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.

Cambridge: The Crown & Punchbowl

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. 

Kent: The Woolpack Tenterden

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.

Sussex: The Royal Oak

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).

Somerset: The Archangel

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.

Warrington: Cat and Lion

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.

Surrey: The Home Cottage

Located in Redhill, The Home Cottage is a welcoming pub serving a seasonally-changing menu of hearty British food - the roast dinners are incredible. What's more, their selection of wines, real cask ales and craft beers is excellent.

Rye: The Ship Inn

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.