The National Trust owns over 35 characterful and historic pubs and inns all over Britain - and as well as offering a warm welcome and delicious local food, many of the pubs have great walking opportunities nearby.
These are some of Britain's best summertime walks – and some lovely watering holes you'll find en route...
South West
1. The George Inn, Lacock, Wiltshire
Dating back to 1361 and featuring a huge open fireplace, the George Inn encapsulates the spirit of old England. The National Trust looks after much of the historic village of Lacock, and there is a plenty explore on foot from the grounds of Lacock Abbey to village and riverside walks. More information
South East
2. The George Inn, Southwark, London
The George Inn could be a welcome refreshment stop on a walk along the Thames Path National Trail. The site has connections with Charles Dickens, who visited it when it was a coffee shop and mentioned it in Little Dorrit. More information
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3. The King's Head, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
Set in the heart of this historic market town, the 15th century King's Head is one of England's best preserved coaching inns. Dating back to 1455, the building has many fascinating architectural features, including rare stained-glass windows, exposed wattle and daub and the original stabling for the inn. Take a walk in the nearby Chilterns countryside, and afterwards visit the pub for a refreshing drink. More information
4. The Tiger Inn, East Dean, East Sussex
Although the Tiger Inn in East Dean is the starting point for a circular South Downs walk to Birling Gap, which is part of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. You can pick up a beermat with the route on it from the pub. More information
5. The George Inn, Slindon Estate, West Sussex
This walk around Nore Hill Folly from The George Inn at Eartham is perfect for balmy days, with much of the route overhung and shaded by trees. The George is an ideal place to start and finish your walk. More information
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Midlands
6. The Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Worcestershire
The Fleece Inn at Bretforton was first licensed in 1848 but was originally built as a farmhouse. It's just a stone's throw from the walking wonders of the Cotswold Way National Trail at Chipping Camden, or take a trip to Hidcote for a peaceful garden stroll. More information
East
7. The Bucks Arms, Blickling, Norfolk
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the Blickling Estate parkland, visiting points of local historical interest including the Tower, Brickyard and Mausoleum. Afterwards, stop for a drink at the Bucks Arms - a lovely traditional 17th-century pub and former coaching inn. More information
North
8. Gibside Pub, Rowlands Gill, Tyne & Wear
Tucked away on the 18th-century Gibside Estate, this lovely pub is surrounded by over 600 acres of beautiful woodlands, gardens and historical buildings. At Gibside you can enjoy a walk and discover the history as you go then relax in Gibside Pub's beer garden. It's the perfect way to make the most of the summer sun and lighter nights. More information
9. The Sticklebarn Tavern, Great Langdale, Cumbria
Nestled on the valley floor, Sticklebarn pub is the ideal gateway to walking in Great Langdale, home to the lofty Langdale Pikes. You'll find plenty of low-level walking in the valley, with views as refreshing as Sticklebarn's tasty local tipples. More information
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10. Tower Bank Arms, Near Sawrey, Cumbria
Right next door to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's farmhouse, Tower Bank Arms in Near Sawrey offers a cosy retreat after a good stomp in the Lakes. Go on a lakeside amble along Windermere, climb up Latterbarrow or take a romantic stroll up to Moss Eccles Tarn, much loved by Potter herself – before seeking out this cosy pub. More information
Wales
11. Tŷ Coch Inn, Porthdinllaen, Llŷn Peninsula
The Llŷn Peninsula is a spectacular spot to enjoy a walk on the coast with magnificent views, fine sandy beaches, and friendly local fishermen. And even better, the Tŷ Coch Inn is on hand to provide refreshments.
Northern Ireland
12. The Crown Bar, Belfast
One of Northern Ireland's most famous pubs, the Crown Bar is a Victorian gem hidden in the streets of Belfast. Its wonderfully atmospheric setting, with period gas lighting and cosy snugs is a perfect restorative after some urban exploration or a roam around the meadows and woodlands of nearby Minnowburn.
All images supplied by the National Trust & Alamy. Main image from Alamy.
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