If you’re visiting Northumberland this autumn, you might be wondering where you can find the best restaurants, pubs, and eateries. After all, no visit to the region is complete without exploring the local cuisine — and Northumberland has a wealth of irresistible food venues to explore. Whether you’re looking for comforting pub grub or a fine dining experience, here’s our ultimate guide to Northumberland’s food scene.
Best pub food in Northumberland: our must-visits
First up, pub food. Be it steak and chips, a mezze platter, or something a little different, there’s nothing like a pub meal when you’re exploring a new area. For classic pub meals, the warm and cosy Pheasant Inn in Kielder is a great place to start. The Pheasant’s traditional menu uses local produce, including fresh herbs, vegetables and fruits from the inn’s very own cottage garden.
The Lord Crewe Arms is another pub brimming with character. Located in Blanchland, it offers a delicious British menu that’s great for refuelling after exploring the quaint fairytale village. Expect an array of breakfast, lunch and dinner menus alongside an afternoon tea offering.
The best Northumberland restaurants for fine dining and special occasions
Are you looking for something a little bit special? Here are some Northumberland restaurants serving up incredible cuisine fit for a memorable dining experience.
Langley Castle Hotel
Standing proud in Langley-on-Tyne, is the impressive Langley Castle Hotel. This 14th-century castle boasts luxurious accommodation and an intimate fine-dining restaurant. The Josephine Restaurant specialises in fish and game, all cooked to the highest quality and presentation.
Matfen Hall Country Hotel, Spa and Golf Estate
The gorgeous Matfen Hall is a five-star gothic mansion that exudes sophistication. As well as being a stunning wedding venue, it offers some of the best fine dining dishes in Northumberland. With a range of unique dining areas to choose from, there’s something for everyone. The Emerald Restaurant in particular is the ideal venue for five-star dining in an impressive setting. From lobster tail and beef sirloin to a selection of petit fours, enjoy dishes from Matfen’s talented chefs.
Which restaurants in Northumberland have the best view?
From its historical buildings to its sprawling coastline, Northumberland isn’t short on great views. And if you’re searching for restaurants with a view of the best sights in Northumberland, here are some inspiring venues.
The Treehouse Restaurant
Anyone visiting Alnwick is sure to head to Alnwick Castle (which you may recognise from the Harry Potter film franchise). Just a short walk away is the beautiful Alnwick Garden, home to the Treehouse Restaurant. Truly a magical setting, the Treehouse lets you dine amongst the treetops, surrounded by twinkling lights. With a modern British menu that focuses on seasonal, local produce, it’s a fantastic experience for all.
The Forest Bar & Restaurant
For panoramic views of the beautiful Kielder Water & Forest Park, you can’t beat The Forest Bar & Restaurant. As you sample light bites from the lunch menu or a substantial dish from the evening selection, you can gaze out across the water to the distant shores.
Where to go for Sunday lunch and comfort food in Northumberland
Is there anything more comforting than tucking into a hearty Sunday lunch on a crisp autumn day? Luckily, Northumberland has an abundance of pubs and restaurants excelling in classic roast dinners and other nostalgic favourites.
The Linden Tree Pub
The elegant Linden Hall Hotel, Golf & Spa is a sophisticated resort that exudes luxury at every turn. However, nestled in its grounds is The Linden Tree pub, a welcoming venue providing all manner of hearty dishes — from traditional Sunday roasts and pies to warming soups and crumbles.
Bamburgh Castle Inn
Another must-visit is Bamburgh Castle Inn. On a Sunday, you can enjoy a range of carvery options alongside home-cooked light dishes and classic British dishes. The award-winning menu features vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, too. What better way to finish off a bracing walk along Bamburgh beach than with the ultimate British comfort food classics?
Which restaurants in Northumberland are family and dog-friendly?
Whether you’re catching up with old friends or heading on holiday with the whole clan, it can be helpful to know the best family-friendly and dog-friendly restaurants in Northumberland.
We’re particularly fond of The Drift Cafe in Cresswell. Situated close to a beautiful pond, it’s a great space for bird watching and wildlife lovers. If the sun is shining this autumn, why not get a takeaway lunch and sit outside while the kids and dogs have a run-around? Alternatively, the inside is light, airy and welcoming with a good stock of second-hand books and local produce to purchase. On your visit to The Drift Cafe make sure to pick up some whisky from Ad Gefrin or artisan preserves from local Northumberland producers.
Another option is the Whitehouse Farm Centre in Morpeth. While this one might not be suitable for dogs, it’s a great all-weather space for families with lots of activities for the kids to enjoy, from tractor rides, soft play, to outdoor play areas. Enjoy everything from coffee and cake or a light nibble to a hearty homemade dish.
Top seafood restaurants in Northumberland
With its abundant coastline, it’s no surprise that Northumberland is home to some fantastic seafood restaurants. Whether you’re looking for fish and chips, or locally sourced salmon from Berwick-upon-Tweed, you’re sure to find the perfect catch.
Try The Jolly Fisherman’s famous crab soup after exploring Craster, opt for haddock chowder at The Whittling House in Alnwick, or treat yourself to award-winning mussels at The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh. (As an added bonus, The Potted Lobster is another great Northumberland restaurant that’s suitable for all the family, including your four-legged furry friends).
Where to find vegetarian and vegan food in Northumberland
While Northumberland is indeed known for its fish and seafood, there are also plenty of venues providing vegetarian and vegan options.
The Holly Bush Inn is ideal for veggies visiting Greenhaugh, while the Battlesteads Hotel near Hexham offers a stand-out selection of 5-course and 8-course vegetarian tasting menus.
Experience culinary delights with Visit Northumberland
Whatever sort of cuisine you’re in the mood for, Northumberland has restaurants, cafes and cosy pubs for all occasions. This autumn, embrace local Northumbrian produce and let the region's best chefs delight you and your loved ones with irresistible dishes from breakfast to dessert.
Start planning your Northumberland trip today.