Three of a Kind: Pubs Near Winter Walks
Walking | Posted 2023.01.10
Our Three of a Kind series takes a look at a trio of pub stays with one common feature and provides unique inspiration for a trip away. This week, our focus is on pubs near the best winter walks selected by The Sunday Times.
In a recent article, the newspaper selected their favourite winter walks across the U.K and where to stay when visiting them. We thought we’d build on that, showcasing three of the walks featured, combined with our pubs to relax and unwind in after enjoying the beautiful hikes.
With that in mind, here’s three of The Sunday Times recommended winter walks and three pubs that provide the perfect base for each of them…
THE WALK: Rydal Water Circuit, Cumbria
What makes the walk special:
“During summer, the Lake District teems with tourists; in winter, however, its mounts and meres are an empty treat. Ignoring the now-perilous peaks, undertake instead a gentle two-hour trek around Rydal Water. Parking at White Moss, you’ll be treated to repeatedly romantic views of the icy basin from the flanks of Loughrigg Fell and Nab Scar”.
WHERE TO STAY: The Temperance Inn, Ambleside I Cumbria
What makes the pub special:
- Located 2 miles away from Rydal Water
- Lakeland slate building in the heart of Ambleside
- 27 gorgeous bedrooms with dog-friendly options
- Some rooms feature mountain and lake views
The Temperance Inn is filled with cosy nooks and crannies, upcycled furniture, gleaming wood floors and quirky memorabilia. Walkers, cyclists, families and dogs are all welcome, whether you are pausing from exploring Ambleside’s eclectic shops or kicking off your walking boots to relax by a flickering fire with a pint and a plate of hearty pub food.
This wonderful pub is the perfect base from which to explore this vibrant part of the Lake District (Rydal Water in particular) together with Windermere, Grasmere and Keswick which are all nearby.
See inside the pub: The Temperance Inn
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THE WALK: Berwyn Mountains, Denbighshire
What makes the walk special:
“There are 24 peaks to explore with more than 50 walking trails here – plus this corner of northeast Wales is much less busy than neighbouring Snowdonia and just as beautiful. Ascending Cadair Berwyn will take between four and six hours depending on your route. The Ceiriog Valley – particularly the village of Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog – is the best place to start.”
WHERE TO STAY: The West Arms, Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog I Denbighshire
What makes the pub special:
- Set in the foothills of the Berwyn Mountains
- Recently named the Best Pub in Wales
- 16 characterful bedrooms in-keeping with the pub’s 16th century history
- Dog Friendly
Scooping up the coveted ‘Best Pub in Wales’ award at the 2022 Pub & Bar Awards, The West Arms is located in the idyllic village of Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog – the place name noted by The Sunday Times as the best spot to start off the winter walk. Offering outstanding views itself and a real sense of peace and quiet, The West Arms is perfect base from which to explore the Berwyn Mountains, with Snowdonia National Park not too far away either.
See inside the pub here: The West Arms
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THE WALK: Forest of Bowland, Lancashire
What makes the walk special:
“Perfect for fell walks and local fare – head into different areas of the Forest of Bowland, with stepping stones across the River Hodder and Burnholme Bridge, as well as stunning views on the climb up Totridge Fell.”
WHERE TO STAY: The Derby Arms, Longridge I Lancashire
What makes the pub special:
- Set on the brink of the Forest of Bowland AONB
- Within easy reach of all the walking landmarks mentioned by The Sunday Times
- Eye-catching pub with six stylish bedrooms
- Dog Friendly
The Derby Arms is a striking village inn where inside you’ll find a bustling, atmospheric country pub with contemporary dining rooms, cosy corners and open fireplaces. Brimming with character throughout, the pub is beacon of relaxation and rest after a busy day exploring the magnificent countryside surrounding The Derby Arms.
See inside the pub: The Derby Arms
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