The best farm-to-fork foodie pubs in Northumberland

Lord Crewe Arms at Blanchland

Few Northumberland pubs can match the atmospheric refuge of the Lord Crewe Arms, in the tiny, historic village of Blanchland within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Housed in a listed medieval building, originally the abbot’s lodge, it has fortress-thick stone walls, roaring inglenook fireplaces, and a stylish yet traditional country charm. Your dog is also welcome, with water bowls in the garden. 

The menu, overseen by a head chef who previously worked with two Michelin-starred Nathan Outlaw, celebrates robust, seasonal British fare. Highlights include chargrilled côte de boeuf and baked North Sea cod loin, alongside comforting puddings like sticky toffee pudding. Wines are available by the glass, carafe or bottle, and the local gins and cocktails are exceptional.

Stay at: Lord Crewe Arms at Blanchland and stay in one of hugely comfortable bedrooms with well-dressed beds and deep baths.

The Beresford Arms

Finalists in the Great British Pub Awards 2023 and Pub of the Year at the North East England Tourism Awards 2024, The Beresford Arms near Morpeth is a standout. The gastropub champions seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with a distinctive ‘Beresford twist’. 

Expect hearty favourites like bacon loin chop with lovage and parsley emulsion, cottage pie, and pan-fried cod loin served with hand cut triple-cooked chips. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for families and dog owners alike, with local ales and ciders flowing. 

Stay at: Coquet Cottage, a cosy riverside retreat in a tiny ham leg perfect for couples and country walks that end at the pub. 

Bamburgh Castle Inn

In the bustling fishing village of Seahouses, gateway to the Farne Islands, the Bamburgh Castle Inn is a firm favourite for classic seaside comfort food. Take a ferry trip to see puffins, or a windswept walk across the dune-filled, rock-pooling beach, and learn about daring Grace Darling, the lighthouse keeper’s daughter, who rowed though the waves to help rescue shipwrecked seafarers in 1838. Return for homemade pub classics, who cater well to all diets, including vegetarians, vegan and kids. 

Stay at: Brunton House & Cottages, a big dower house and two cottages surrounded by superb gardens, a fishing lake and acres of glorious countryside, a short walk to the coast. 

The Pheasant Inn 

Surrounded by the beauty of Northumberland National Park, The Pheasant Inn is a true hidden gem. Full of old-world colour and charm, it boasts cosy rooms and local produce on the menu. 

Inside, polished brass taps gleam, vintage photos adorn stone walls, and saddle and bowler hat décor add a quirky touch. House ales like Timothy Taylor’s and Wylam are expertly kept, while the menu celebrates regional ingredients. Sunday lunch here has been voted ‘Best in the North’ by The Observer. 

Stay at: The Pheasant Inn and spent the night in one of the charming, converted hay barn bedrooms, then spend days sailing on Kielder Water, hiking the nearby hills, or stargazing at the Kielder Observatory, one of the best places in the UK for dark sky viewing. 

The Rat Inn

Regularly named among the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK, The Rat Inn near Hexham is a relaxed country pub with outstanding food credentials. A community champion, it’s been recognised by Sawday’s Pubs for its commitment to local, seasonal and organic produce. Expect daily-changing blackboard menus built around the best local, seasonal and organic produce, from Lindisfarne oysters to Craster smoked salmon and perfectly grilled steaks. 

Linger over homemade Scotch eggs with kimchi, sip a real ale by the roaring fire in winter, or enjoy lazy afternoons in the garden during summer. 

Stay at: 3 Ada Crescent, a Victorian townhouse B&B full of fresh flowers, friendly dogs and homemade breakfasts. 

The Joiners Arms

Not far from Alnwick, an idyllic market town with a magical castle beloved by Harry Potter fans, The Joiners Arms hits the nail on the head for country menus delivered in a cosy setting.  

Their ethos is simple – great quality food, locally sourced and lovingly prepared. They call it “honest, home-style cooking with a Northumbrian twist” which translates as choosing the best regional produce to create seasonal menus packed with flavour. Eat indoors at wooden tables or sip a glass of something cold in the pub garden on warm days then stroll five-minutes to the beach. All around are stunning views, rugged walks and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. 

Stay at: Keeper’s Cottage, a 1820s cottage with long views, a lovely garden and generous extras.  

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