Family-run and located in some of the most historically renowned counties in the UK… These charming pubs and inns will have you longing for their cosy and comfortable guestrooms. As an alternative to chain hotels, these hand-selected bed and breakfast options offer a nostalgic stay rich in history.
The George, Gainsborough
Located in Kirton in Lindsey and family-run since 2006, The George actively works to grow its reputation for offering exceptional food and accommodation.
With efficient service and a friendly atmosphere, you’ll feel right at home during your visit to The George. If you opt for a night or two away, you’re in for a cosy treat. The four-star-rated rooms feature high-quality decor, with 12 en-suite bedrooms individually designed for warmth and comfort.
The Blue Boar, Witney
The Blue Boar is anything but a bore when the history of its hotel is as fascinating as it is fantastic for its reputation of a cosy night’s sleep in the Cotswolds. Each en-suite room is enhanced by comfortable beds and homely touches reminiscent of the 17th century. Dating back 200 years, this inn bore the name “The Marlborough” in honour of the Duke, but its original name was restored upon its modernised reopening.
Complimentary to the historic town of ‘Witney’, one of Oxfordshire’s largest market towns… Each room features a personal touch with a ‘Witney Blanket.’ In tribute to the inn’s historic foundations, the design of each room uniquely reflects the preserved 17th-century architecture, showcasing exposed beams, classic colours, and comfortable furnishings.
Offering extensive and varied menus with locally sourced produce, The Blue Boar’s courtyard provides an al fresco dining experience in comfortable surroundings… Serving unique flavours from overseas cuisines, including a Mediterranean menu. Once satisfied, you can explore the Witney Lakes and Meadows, which comprise 37 hectares of meadows and a nature reserve. As peaceful as it is beautifully preserved, The Blue Boar is an ideal location for a relaxed and restful stay.
Groes Inn, Conwy
Named ‘Inn of the Year’ by The Good Pub Guide in 2012 and situated in the North Wales countryside… Groes Inn is a traditional British Inn combining a warm welcome with excellent service. Their award-winning restaurant offers delicious dishes which may have you pining for a post-meal snooze in their comfortable and cosy guestrooms. Timbers from the 15th and 16th centuries form the foundation of this architectural masterpiece. Where historical artifacts such as pinned-up court transaction records and royal connections can be found within its walls. Among these is the signed deed of the inn’s purchase by Arthur Charles, the fourth Duke of Wellington, in 1889.
Although originating from humble beginnings… Their award-winning achievements have shot them to Welsh hospitality fame, becoming well-known for their seasonal dishes and cask ales. Staying at the Groes Inn is just as laid back as it is lovely where signature double and terrace double rooms offer mountain views and dog-friendly options. Boasting stunning panoramic views of the Conwy countryside… The Groes Inn will grow a special place in your heart for bringing a refreshing retreat experience to you and your loved ones.
The Crown & Thistle Hotel, Abingdon
The Crown and Thistle Hotel offers a cosy stay in comfortable rooms, complemented by a homely pub and stylish restaurant, all set around a stunning 200-year-old wisteria and cobbled courtyard. Located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, it’s the ideal staycation spot in a historically rich county. Dating back to the 15th century, the hotel features original timber beams, exposed brickwork, and unique window frames. Nearby landmarks like the 1,000-year-old St. Helen’s Church, Abbey Gardens, and the town museum add to its historic charm.
Stay on-site for freshly prepared Neapolitan pizza at the Crown and Thistle, grilled in a wood-fired oven with options for all dietary needs. Upstairs, enjoy luxury toiletries, specialty teas, and smart technologies in each room. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, the sophisticated double and twin rooms offer comfort and charm. With its historical architecture, The Crown and Thistle Hotel is perfect for laid-back summer evenings.
Crown Inn at Dial Post, Horsham
An award-winning free house, the Crown Inn at Dial Post welcomes you into a homely environment to relax in, honing a strong reputation for the excellent quality of their homemade food with almost everything cooked from scratch and always made up of fresh ingredients. Whether a pub classic or seasonal special, the daily menu supports local Sussex businesses, and you can too!
A public house dating back as early as the 1870s, choose from a range of room options including ancestry and dog-friendly options. All dogs are provided with a bowl, blanket and Bonio biscuits! Moreover, their self-catering cottages encompass super stylish stays surrounded by the beautiful West Sussex countryside (and its unusual wildlife)! Vintage designs are complimented by beautifully refurbished cottage styles which are well-equipped and perfect for couples or family staycation!
And that’s not all! The Crown Inn at Dial Post boasts a range of awards which exemplifies, not only, their excellent bar and restaurant facilities but their clear commitment to customer care. To name only a few, they have been awarded Pub of the Year, Travelers’ Choice in 2022, and the best destination pub in Sussex. With all these winnings, what a way to welcome you into a well-rounded retreat.
Cumberland Inn, Alston
Standing since the mid-Victorian era and featuring designs by architect Harry Redfern from the 20th century, the characterful Cumberland Inn is a family-run, five-bedroom traditional pub overlooking the River South Tyne. Offering traditional cider and cask ales, the welcoming and friendly staff serve homemade bar meals and comforting dishes. As one of the few CAMRA Heritage pubs in Cumbria, it boasts historical architecture in the upstairs rooms, while the rest of its interior features a Grade II-listed oak-panelled design.
Offering five comfortable and well-presented en-suite bedrooms… Their fluffy feather pillows and crisp white linen will have you dreaming as soon as you wrap yourself up. Moreover, The Cumberland Inn is as thriving and fun as it is relaxing where it is regarded as part of Carlisle’s weekend scene. Emanating a strong sense of elegant ambience with its original bar fittings and stone fireplaces, come to the Cumberland Inn in Carlisle for a calm, yet charismatic stay!
Kings Arms, Brentford
The Kings Arms Brentford boast a rich history, dating back to 1840 as public house status. Moreover, it boasts just as rich a family heritage as it does a historical one. Where its owner, Joanne, along with her sister, became the youngest ever female licensee of a UK pub. Reflecting her warmth, the King Arms Brentford prides itself on giving customers a cosy stay with a contemporary edge, blending illustrated wallpaper and soft fabric design with copper-top tables, on-trend lighting and a beautiful beer garden.
The Kings Arms Brentford decorates its space with warm colours to match its warm welcome! Offering you a morning cuppa and hosting community events such as their pub quiz. The Kings Arms restaurant is open six days a weer, specialising in a roast dinner on Sundays. With a selection of wraps, sandwiches, salads, a broad range of starters, and ten different burgers… You can enjoy a satisfying meal before heading to your en-suite single, double, or twin room. Rest easy knowing that at the Kings Arms Brentford, you’re enjoying a relaxing stay in a place others could only dream of.