A pub in Northumberland described as a “valuable regional asset” has been named as one of Britain’s best cosiest pubs for a “perfect” winter lunch.

The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest located at Slaggyford in Brampton made the top list published by The Good Food Guide.

It featured alongside the likes of The Drunken Duck Inn in Cumbria.

The Good Food Guide said: “From the Clachan Inn, proclaimed by visitors as ‘possibly the best of all pubs’, to the inglenooks and gnarled oak beams of the West Arms in the Berwyn Mountains, we've picked out some of Britain's best cosy pubs to while away the time between Christmas and New Year.

“They don't just stoke the open fires and keep the logs well stacked, these pubs serve up relaxed, warm vibes, good local beers and even better cooking.”

You can see the full list of cosiest pubs to visit here.

What did The Good Food Guide say about The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest?

The experts wrote: “What might once have been the rectory of the euphoniously named village of Slaggyford has been a hostelry since Victorian times.

“Outdoor tables will be a definite summer lure to hikers on the nearby Pennine Way, but the considered transformation of the Kirkstyle Inn into a modern dining pub with rooms seals it as a valuable regional asset.

The Northern Echo: Have you visited The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest?Have you visited The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman's Rest? (Image: Tripadvisor)

“Nick Parkinson (formerly of the Royal Oak, Paley Street) was persuaded to forsake the embrace of Berkshire for these wilder environs by an enterprising property developer, but the new home feels like a perfect fit.

“The cons, including fitted wine shelves, are all definitely mod but the makeover doesn't seem ersatz; the flagstone floors are undisturbed and, most importantly, the kitchen is off and running.”

When it comes to the food, The Good Food Guide commented: “A starter of North Sea crab, peas and chopped fermented asparagus was a bravura dish, the various green elements in perfect balance with the creamily dressed, fresh crustacean.

“Elsewhere, loose-textured duck liver parfait was offset by the sharpness of blackberries and the textural snap of granola. An aspirational main course of halibut, which came with beurre blanc cut with fragrant dill oil, plus a mishmash of brown shrimps, chanterelles, pickled grapes and samphire, turned out to be a safer wager than the more prosaic fish and chips; alternatively, you might opt for breast and confit leg of guinea fowl with crushed potatoes, morels and leek.

Top Tips for an Easy Christmas Dinner 

“To finish, rhubarb and pistachio crumble with rhubarb sorbet was pleasantly tart and fresh, while cherries and almonds offered inspired contrasts to a dark chocolate crémeux.”

It added: “Drinking is a particularly happy experience, especially as prices begin at a mere £3 for a small glass of Chilean Merlot. Even the 'classed growth' claret and white Burgundy are offered at prices that will have city types green with envy.”

On Tripadvisor, the pub is also highly praised with a current rating of 4/5.

One recent visitor posted this review: “We passed this place a few weeks ago and thought it looked beautifully refurbished from the outside and well worth a try.

“Today, we went for lunch, and the first impressions were correct. The interior is beautifully executed, a lovely bar, great beer, and wines on offer.

“The food was lovingly prepared, and the service and timing were superb. These people know what they're doing.

“The prices were very reasonable for food that matched many Michelin starred establishments at which we've eaten. Deserts were a real treat. We wish them every success. They deserve it.”