The Highest Pubs in the UK that you need to visit

Fancy a traditional inn with altitude? Look no further than our guide to the highest pubs in the UK.

If you’re looking to add to your UK travel bucket list, then be sure to include the highest pubs! From the sweeping moors of North Wales to the dales of North Yorkshire, all five pubs promise to pack a punch with fascinating history, great food and beautiful landscapes!

Continue reading to discover the highest pubs in the UK that you need to visit…

Highest Pubs in England

1. Tan Hill Inn, Swaledale

Taking the top spot as the highest pub in England is Yorkshire’s Tan Hill Inn. Found 1,732 feet above sea level, this world-famous inn rests in a lonely spot, amidst the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Dating back to the 17th century, there is a lot of history waiting to be discovered here, as well as a well-deserved pint or two, of course!

Look forward to kicking back in front of the woodburning stove after a long walk in the Yorkshire Dales and rub shoulders with like-minded people. You are sure to find friendly characters who enjoy walking, cycling, the arts and music whilst visiting.

As well as its claim to fame as the highest pub in England, Tan Hill Inn has also played host to a couple of famous faces. In 2008, pub visitors were treated to a spontaneous Arctic Monkeys gig, crowning it the highest gig venue in the UK too!

2. The Cat and Fiddle, Macclesfield

The second highest pub in England, The Cat and Fiddle, can be found within the Peak District National Park and rests an impressive 1,689 feet above sea level.

This cosy haven was built in 1813 by a local silk merchant called John Ryle, who wanted a space where weary travellers could rest. Today, however, the iconic pub also operates as the highest distillery in England. Here, you will find an extensive network of cellars, which make the most perfect conditions for whisky to mature!

After relishing in a spot of Peak District wild swimming, feel the warmth of this historic inn or enjoy an intimate tour after taking in the sights along one of the best scenic drives in the UK.

3. Kirkstone Pass Inn, Ambleside

Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Cumbria, is the third highest pub in England, Kirkstone Pass Inn.

Discover the pub on a perilous stretch of road connecting Windermere and Patterdale and an unfathomable 1,481 feet above sea level! This road, which rests inches from the pub’s front door is known as “The Struggle”. This drive is certainly not for the fainted hearted, but you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views for your troubles!

Inside, a roaring open fire, a welcoming ambience and wholesome pub grub await. You will also find three pumps of real ale, as well as a changing collection of beers from Cumbrian breweries, perfect for a tipple after a long Lake District walk!

Although this pub is currently closed as of June 2024, it’s still a great place to consider visiting for the fantastic views of the surrounding area towards Lake Windermere.

Traditional in nature, this highest pub in the UK is sure to charm anyone who visits.

Highest Pub in Scotland

4. Wanlockhead Inn, Wanlockhead

The highest pub in Scotland is perched within the endearing village of Wanlockhead, in Dumfries and Galloway.

Wanlockhead Inn is in fact the third highest pub in the UK, sitting at 1,531 feet above sea level and surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Lowther Hills.

Not only is the village famed for being the highest village in Scotland, it is also the setting of the comedy-drama series, Hope Springs!

Visitors to this pub can look forward to a fantastic atmosphere, traditional pub grub, a roaring fire and real ale to complement.

Highest Pub in Wales

5. Sportsmans Arms, Denbigh

Concluding our list of the highest pubs in the UK is the highest pub in Wales, Denbigh’s Sportsman’s Arms.

Discover this charming inn amidst the landscapes of the Denbigh Moors, just moments away from Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir. Slightly further afield is the Snowdonia National Park, making this pub the ideal pit-stop after an action-packed day of exploring its collection of mountains.

Here, the staff are courteous and the food is divine! Sunny afternoons can be spent in the pub garden, whilst inside the three woodburning stoves are a welcomed sight in the winter!

Lovers of dance music should plan their visit in July when the annual ‘U Know Festival’ is held. You can expect an exceptional weekend of reggae, funk, techno and disco, something for all tastes.

Have you visited any of the highest pubs in the UK? Be sure to let us know on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Alternatively, if you have been inspired to visit these pubs situated across the UK, book with us today to find your perfect holiday accommodation. 

Image Credits: Neil Theasby – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Michael Jagger – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Ben Brooksbank – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Philip Halling – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Colin Pyle – (CC BY-SA 2.0); John Firth – (CC BY-SA 2.0)