Question: is a visit to the countryside ever complete without stopping off at the local pub? Answer: of course not! Country pubs are at the heart of rural life, and here at Combermere Abbey, we’re incredibly lucky to have a whole host of different pubs on our doorstep. So whether you’re looking for a cosy drink by the fireside or a hearty meal after a day’s walking, we’ve rounded up our top three of our favourite locals that we think you’ll enjoy just as much as us.

For Families: Combermere Arms

Well, it’s in the name, isn’t it. The Combermere Arms is our closest pub, just over a mile away from the Abbey. What could be better than a refreshingly long walk in the warm summer sun to really work up an appetite, before settling down for one of life’s most pleasant dilemmas – choosing what to eat!

The range of cuisines and dishes on offer at the Combermere Arms makes it ideal for families (even more ideal if families have taken advantage of our Summer Family Holiday package, but of course you could also let the kids have a holiday with the grandparents and book a romantic retreat for two in the North Wing!). Whether it’s a classic honey roast ham with egg and chips, deep-fried Cornish Brie or a refreshing salad, there’s something for everyone. And don’t leave without trying their hot waffle with glazed bananas and honeycomb ice cream – no matter how full you might be, trust us on this one!

For Dog Lovers: Cholmondeley Arms

The Cholmondeley Arms in Wrenbury is a pub for those who love a bit of history, but don’t want to leave their four-legged friend at home! Just eight miles away from Combermere, The Cholmondeley Arms sits inside a former Victorian village schoolhouse on Lord Cholmondeley’s estate and welcomes well-behaved dogs in all areas of the pub.

The Cholmondeley Arms is also famous for offering a staggering 366 different gins – enough to try a different one every day of the year! A wide selection of local ales brewed within a 30-mile radius of the pub are also offered, as well as a delicious range of malts and ports. This country pub values tradition and loves its hounds! If you’ve booked to stay in one of our dog-friendly self-catering cottages, take a trip to The Cholmondeley Arms after a nice long walk – you deserve it.

For the Weekend Away: The Bhurtpore Inn

A hotspot for serious beer lovers, the Bhurtpore Inn has won CAMRA’s title of ‘South Cheshire Pub of the Year’ for two years running and has been featured in the Good Beer Guide each and every year since it opened its doors in 1992. Offering a range of hoppy tipples including trendy American and British craft beers, real ales, Belgian and German selections as well as 11 hand-pumped beers – you’re certain to leave the Bhurtpore with a new favourite!

A mere seven-minute drive from Combermere, the Bhurtpore also offers a range of non-alcoholic beers for designated drivers. But if everyone in your party fancies a drink, don’t worry – simply speak to our team who will be more than happy to arrange a taxi for you. Ideal for a group of friends looking to unwind with a weekend away in the country, the Bhurtpore is the pub to kick back and get the rounds in whilst you all have a proper catch up. Our cottages are perfect are ideal for large groups – you can sleep up to ten people in the Crossley cottage; and if you’re even more popular than that you can simply book more than one!

For Couples: The Dusty Miller

Known for its idyllic setting and romantic atmosphere, The Dusty Miller is a traditional country pub situated by the banks of the Llangollen Canal in the quiet village of Wrenbury, rural Cheshire. Originally a Corn Mill, The Dusty Miller was converted in the mid 1970’s, whilst still retaining a lot of the original features. The large arched windows provide a perfectly peaceful setting to watch the boats pass by.

As well as offering a superb menu of Great British dishes with a twist, the pub’s coveted canal-side location also marks it the ideal spot for an after-dinner stroll. For those enjoying a romantic getaway at our North Wing, The Dusty Miller is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a candlelit date for two by the water.

If you’re looking for an excuse to check out our amazing local pubs, why not book a short break with us, or for more inspiration, take a look at Combermere Abbey: Not Just For Couples.