A North East pub with “stunning views” has been named among the UK’s cosiest to visit this autumn and winter by the Good Food Guide.
The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsmans Rest set in the village of Slaggyford in Northumberland was also highlighted for its affordable wine prices which are said to make “city types green with envy”.
The Good Food Guide commented on its latest top pub selection: “As the autumn draws in, we've picked out some of Britain's best cosy pubs.
“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 all 50 of the UK’s must-visit cosy pubs here.
Why is The Kirkstyle Inn one of the UK’s cosiest pubs?
The publisher explained: “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.
“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.”
But what can those yet to visit The Kirkstyle Inn expect to see? “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,” shares the food experts.
If you’re wondering what’s on the menu, the pub offers a starter of North Sea crab, peas and chopped fermented asparagus with a bravura dish.
“The various green elements in perfect balance with the creamily dressed, fresh crustacean,” states the Good Food Guide.
It adds: “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.”
For dessert, those with a sweet tooth might want to try the rhubarb and pistachio crumble with rhubarb sorbet, described as “pleasantly tart and fresh while cherries and almonds offered inspired contrasts to a dark chocolate crémeux”.
The Good Food Guide concludes: “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 Kirkstyle Inn has also been praised by many of its customers, receiving a 4.5/5 rating from 34 reviews.
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One commented: “Our introduction to this country pub was to a spacious, comfortable, immaculately clean bedroom, with stunning views of the fells. Next dinner and cooking of Michelin quality. A highlight was the scallop with belly pork, a brilliant dish.
“Next morning breakfast, again flawless in every respect from the service to the produce. Any prospective dining pub owner/chef should come here to see how it's done.”
The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsmans Rest is located at Slaggyford, Brampton, CA8 7PB.
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