Here at Cool Places, we're all about living to eat rather than the other way around! We love getting out and about, exploring the best foodie places to stay in the UK. Are you the same? Then you're in the right place. We've collated a selection of foodie pubs, inns and hotels dishing up first-rate seasonal plates, whether it's classics or something a bit more innovative. From romantic foodie getaways and gastropubs with rooms to scenic seaside hotels with restaurants worth travelling for, there's plenty to mull over.
The Gin Trap Inn
This fantastic 17th-century dog-friendly inn with rooms is just a stone's throw from the scenic North Norfolk Coast and has a talented Chef Patron at the helm. Offering seasonal plates that focus on sustainability and simplicity, the team values the array of beautiful local produce on their doorstep. What that in mind, dishes such as Brancaster oysters, lamb saddle and breast with buckwheat risotto, and cod with cauliflower, crab sauce and ratte potatoes are on the menu.
The Percy Arms
Among the top foodie pubs in Surrey, The Percy Arms nestles in the quaint hamlet of Chilworth, so you may be surprised by what’s in store for you. From the exterior, it’s a quintessential country watering hole, but step inside, and you'll be greeted by an African-themed gastropub that's well-known for its steak, where each guest room is named after one of the ’Big Five’ game animals.
The Double Red Duke
This idyllic rural retreat in Oxfordshire's Clanfield is a thoroughly contemporary country hotel, with a restaurant to shout about too. Gaining accolades from the Telegraph, the Sunday Times and critic Jay Raynor, the centre point of the on-site eatery is its open fire. The menu features delights like Roscoff onion and Ogleshield flatbread, apple glazed bacon ribs and whole Megrim sole – yum. Enjoy your meal in the restaurant, garden, bar, or 12-seater ‘feasting room’ for groups.
The Stag on the River
The Stag on the River is a lovely Surrey pub with stylish rooms, nestled on the River Wey in Godalming. Interiors feature a fascinating maze of corridors and hidden corners, thanks to its rich 17th-century history. Better yet, the riverside spot is well-known in the local area for its fantastic locally sourced and seasonal food, where the likes of luxury fish pie, bang bang cauliflower, and ‘nduja chicken are on offer.
Rocksalt Rooms
Alongside being a luxurious boutique bolthole, the rooms at this B&B in Kent are just steps from the Rocksalt restaurant, a harbourside dining experience to remember. The regularly changing seasonal menu is inspired by the local area: an incredible range of fresh seafood is on offer, plus free-range meat and a creative selection of vegetarian options. Oh, and don’t forget the upstairs bar area, where innovative cocktails and tasty small plates are served.
The West Arms
The West Arms is a super-inviting dog-friendly gastropub with rooms, and they also have a reputation for sensational food. Indeed, eating here is a celebration of local Welsh produce, featuring plates like succulent Berwyn lamb and leek and Caerphilly tart. Ingredients suppliers are mentioned by name on the menu, and the team makes their own chutney, mustard and churned butter.
The Cricketers
Originally owned by Jamie Oliver's parents Trevor and Sally, The Cricketers is now part of the Chestnut Group. Old traditions remain: the kitchen still hangs steaks, bakes their own bread and sources local ingredients. These consistent touches give the 22-room gastropub its reputation as a foodie place to stay. Menus change every few months, and the focus is on classic pub grub done extremely well. They have a pizza oven, too!
Old Downton Lodge
Ideally located in the rolling South Shropshire Hills, Old Downton Lodge has nine individually decorated guest rooms (plus a bridal suite) and glorious country walks on its doorstep, yet Ludlow is just a 10-minute drive away. The incredible on-site restaurant is mentioned in the Michelin Guide, has 3 AA Rosettes, and was voted one of the best foodie places to eat in the UK. Each dish is thoughtfully-conceived, and diners can choose from à la carte or a tasting menu.
St Edmund’s House
Brown's
Nestled in Laugharne, one of Wales' most appealing small towns, this country hotel where Dylan Thomas used to drink offers boutiquey bedrooms that range from cosy doubles to luxurious suites. On-site restaurant Dexters at Brown's specialises in beef, with the team rearing their own herd under the watchful eye of Stuart Rudge at nearby Llwyn Farm. But don't worry if steak isn't your thing: an array of other dishes are served, from roast fillet of hake with caramelised cauliflower puree to lamb rump with courgette and feta.
For more top foodie UK pubs, inns and hotels, check out our 'Foodie Stays' guide. If you're looking for a particular part of the UK, head to our 'Destinations' section, where we cover the likes of Cornwall, Norfolk, Pembrokeshire and the Scottish Highlands. And for general inspo, head to our blog.