Key Points
- The Times has compiled a roundup of the 25 best pubs with rooms in the United Kingdom for the autumn season, spanning locations from Dorset to North Yorkshire.
- The Kirkstyle Inn, located in Slaggyford on the border between Northumberland and Cumbria, secured the seventh position on the national list.
- Critics praised The Kirkstyle Inn for its game-led culinary offerings, ten-course tasting menu, and country-chic guest rooms.
- The Pheasant Inn, situated in Kielder Forest, was selected at number 24, praised for its traditional atmosphere, local real ales, home-cooked food, and views of the Dark Sky Park.
Northumberland (France News7) October 22, 2026 – Two hospitality venues in Northumberland have been featured in a national guide highlighting the top places to stay and dine during the autumn months. The Times published its curated list of the 25 best pubs with rooms across the United Kingdom, featuring properties from Dorset up to North Yorkshire. Among those selected, The Kirkstyle Inn in Slaggyford earned seventh place, while The Pheasant Inn in Kielder Forest came in at number 24.
What makes The Kirkstyle Inn a top autumn destination?
As reported by journalists at The Times, the publication selected the 25 best pubs across the UK with accommodation suited for autumn, detailing options across the country. Ranked seventh, The Kirkstyle Inn—located in the village of Slaggyford on the Northumberland border with Cumbria—was singled out for its ambiance and culinary standards.
As reported by The Times, the publication stated that the venue “is the kind of place where, coming in from a blustery walk, you sigh with pleasure.” Addressing the venue’s menu and accommodation offerings, The Times stated that “the cooking, highlighting local game, is accomplished — even side dishes are elevated, heritage carrots coming with “carrot jam” and hazelnuts (mains from £28).”
The Times further noted: “Opt for the ten-course tasting menu (£105) to try as much as possible. The four rooms exude country chic and the flagstoned pub has a beautiful simplicity.” Highlighting nearby activities for visitors to the area, The Times added: “Trawl the independent shops in the lofty market town of Alston, a ten-minute drive. On the way, stop to marvel at Epiacum Roman fort.”
Why was The Pheasant Inn selected among the UK’s best?
Positioned at number 24 in the national selection, The Pheasant Inn in Kielder Forest was recognised for its location, traditional interior, and food service.
As reported by The Times, the reviewer stated: “There are starlit skies, then there are the spectacular starlit skies of the Dark Sky Park in Northumberland’s National Park — and to see them you need only step outside the Pheasant on a clear night.”
Describing the pub’s interior features and food offerings, The Times stated: “There’s lots to keep you inside the family-run inn, though: an ancient bar dispensing ales from Wylam brewery and home-cooked food including marinated herring from the Northumberland coast, ox cheek braised in red wine and a world-class sticky toffee pudding (mains from £18).”
Background of the Development
The inclusion of these establishments in national autumn lists follows a broader pattern of recognition for Northumberland’s hospitality sector. Both venues operate in distinct rural settings that draw visitors for natural landforms, starry skies, and local historical sites.
The Kirkstyle Inn, officially known as The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest, sits in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The establishment previously earned industry accolades, including awards for its game-focused menus, estate-grown produce, and commitment to sustainable sourcing. Situated near Alston and the Epiacum Roman Fort, it operates as a destination pub serving regional produce.
The Pheasant Inn is a long-standing family-run business situated in Kielder Forest, within Northumberland National Park. The area forms part of Europe’s largest protected dark sky park, attracting stargazers, hikers, and tourists visiting Kielder Water and Forest Park. The inn maintains traditional features, sourcing local microbrewery ales and traditional regional recipes.
Prediction: How This Development Can Affect Local Businesses and Tourism
The placement of local venues on national lists compiled by publications like The Times typically influences regional trade and consumer travel choices.
- Increased Footfall for Hospitality Outlets: Inclusion in a high-profile top 25 list generally drives autumn and winter bookings. Destination diners and weekend holidaymakers often rely on national media guides to plan seasonal stays, which can boost occupancy rates during shoulder seasons.
- Economic Benefits for Surrounding Businesses: Higher visitor numbers to places like Slaggyford and Kielder Forest can spill over into neighbouring rural economies. Retailers in market towns such as Alston, along with local heritage sites like Epiacum Roman Fort, may see increased visitor traffic from travellers touring the area.
- Enhanced Regional Reputation: National recognition reinforces Northumberland’s position as a destination for gastronomy, rural walks, and astro-tourism. Continued exposure of this nature helps establish the county as a reliable choice for UK staycations throughout the year.
