INSPIRATION • August 2019

Eight British pubs for the perfect pint

As part of this special edition to celebrate 100 incredible years of British Airways, we asked you to fly the flag for that age-old institution: the great British pub. From charming locals to chic country inns, here are the taverns our Executive Club Members love most

The Roebuck, Richmond, Surrey

The views are what really sets this charming Richmond pub apart. It might not be on the river like some of the leafy London suburb’s more famous pubs but set high on Richmond Hill “it has an outlook few other public houses can match”. It’s well worth the hike up to drink in the sweeping views over the Thames, Marble Hill and beyond – a view that, famously painted by JMW Turner, has been protected by an Act of Parliament for over 100 years – alone. But the local institution also has “really good food and drink” with all the pub classics you’d expect. The pies and fish and chips with a Greene King IPA batter in particular are perfect with a pint.
Says who: Alan Simcock

The Inn at Whitwell, Forest of Bowland, Lancashire

This wonderfully quaint foodie pub has a reputation for working wonders with Lancashire’s bountiful produce and its interesting wines – 20 of which are available by the glass. The selection of hand-pumped ales is pretty impressive, too. Set beside the River Hodder in the Forest of Bowland, the 14th-century stone building suits throughout the seasons. “In the summer, it’s a great place to kick back, have a drink and eat country fare”. While in winter, it’s all about holing up by the open fire for the “food and atmosphere”. And with 23 gorgeous rooms, there’s no reason not to hole up for a good few days.
Says who: Peter Connick

The Abergavenny Arms, Frant, East Sussex

With claims it “serves one of the best Sunday roasts you can imagine”, this old coaching inn on the Kent/Sussex border has been pulling in hungry punters for centuries. It has all the right ingredients for a cracking Sunday lunch venue – cosy interior with inglenook fires, garden with gorgeous views, dedicated gin menu, well-kept local ales, and country walks on its doorstep. Hands-on landlord Richard Burrell ensures the “food and service are always good”.
Says who: Karen Bryant

The Golden Heart Inn, Nettleton Bottom, Gloucestershire

This handsome Cotswolds inn dating back to the 16th-century is as classic an English country pub as they come with its cosy, low-ceilinged bars, open fires and pretty garden. “Locally sourced produce is the pride of the pub” with rosettes adorning its walls, revealing that its meat has been sourced from local markets and livestock fairs. Locally brewed ales are another reason to pull over at this traditional roadside inn, where dogs are warmly welcome.
Says who: Patrick Duncan

The Free Trade Inn, Ouseburn, Newcastle

“Moors and oceans are great, but looking up the Tyne towards Newcastle’s bowed bridges from this pub in Ouseburn offers another kind of delight.” Sunset is prime time to see the Free Trade Inn’s glorious view as the city lights start to sparkle. While its photogenic qualities lure Instagrammers, the pub “cleverly treads the fine line between craft beer hipness and down-to-earth backstreet local atmosphere”. Imperial stouts and double IPAs sit alongside cask ales, and street food-style snacks alongside local meat pies.
Says who: Joseph Atta Gyamfi

Pearson’s Arms, Whitstable, Kent

With its pebbled beach, working harbour and chi-chi boutiques, Whitstable has lashings of seaside charm, as does Pearson’s Arms. Described as “the ultimate hidden corner pub”, it is set in an 18th-century building overlooking the water. The “rustic yet modern” food menu served in the upstairs restaurant is a highlight, especially the seafood – being “only moments away from the sea” you can be sure it’s super fresh. Accompany dishes with local wines or small-batch gins. It also has regular live music nights with a host of local musicians.
Says who: Chloe White

The Harbourmaster Inn, Aberaeron, Wales

You can’t miss this bright blue beauty that sits slap-bang on Aberaeron’s pretty harbour. And you won’t want to. Built as a home for the harbour master in the 19th century and revamped as a stylish inn, it has 13 elegant guest rooms, a smart bistro (its menu stuffed with Welsh goodies) and welcoming bar. After sampling its “fantastic atmosphere and brilliant food”, walk it off with a promenade around the picturesque town or along the coastal path.
Says who: Ronald Phillips

The Royal Oak, Cerne Abbas, Dorset

The owners of this thatched pub in quaint Cerne Abbas “go the extra mile” to give new customers and regulars “a warm welcome”. In winter it’s all about “lively conversations” by the “roaring fire” and “scrumptious food”. While in summer this “perfect all-seasons destination” hosts beer and cider festivals. The pretty walled garden, with overflowing hanging baskets and vibrant flowers, is a glorious spot for a pint of locally brewed Cerne Abbas Beer or Pimms.
Says who: Rachel Amphlett

Brewdog has teamed up with British Airways to create a limited edition centenary brew, the Speedbird 100 IPA. Executive Club Members can also enjoy a 10 per cent discount on all food and drink in BrewDog bars across the UK when you show your Executive Club card. To find out more about Brewdog and the Speedbird 100 IPA, click here

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This article has been tagged Food + Drink, Destination