At Overland Adventures HQ, we’ve scoured the Northumberland 250 to bring you the ultimate foodie guide—discover our top must-try spots that will turn your scenic drive into a culinary adventure!
Over the last few years Northumberland has been gaining a bit of a reputation for creating outstanding gastronomy. Our list includes two Michelin starred restaurants, one that should be and will be very shortly and others that create outstanding award winning food using local produce.
Explore a diverse array of dining experiences in this historic region, from quaint village pubs to award-winning restaurants nestled amidst stunning scenery.
Discover gems like Restaurant Pine, where local ingredients from their onsite garden and foraged across Northumberland shine in every dish. Indulge in the warm, country charm of The Rat, renowned for its British cooking and picturesque beer garden overlooking the Tyne Valley.
Experience the coastal delights of The Jolly Fisherman in Craster, where fresh seafood like Crab Soup and Craster Landed Lobster are served with views of Dunstanburgh Castle. Meanwhile, at The Beresford, classic British comfort food receives a modern twist with dishes like Bacon Loin Chop paired with Roasted Chili Pineapple and Hand-Cut Triple Cooked Chips.
Whether enjoying a pint of local ale or a curated wine flight, each venue promises a memorable dining experience that celebrates Northumberland’s rich culinary heritage and natural beauty.
THE BERESFORD ARMS
Just across from our HQ and where we conduct our meet and greet with our guests (with a hot brew or a soft drink) is The Beresford Arms, a hidden culinary treasure whose team have garnered multiple awards for excellence. Nestled in the picturesque village of Whalton in Northumberland, this pub offers a unique blend of classic British comfort food meets innovation.
Indulge in their signature Bacon Loin Chop, elevated with a Lovage and Parsley emulsion, Roasted Chili Pineapple, a perfectly Fried Duck Egg, and Hand-Cut Triple Cooked Chips—a tantalizing preview of the exceptional cuisine awaiting you.
Every dish at The Beresford embodies their commitment to excellence, crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally and made to order. Herbs are sourced directly from their garden to enhance freshness.
Quench your thirst with a curated selection of local ales, beers, and ciders like ‘Mad Jack Ha’ from First and Last, ‘Tyneside Blonde’ from Hadrian Border, and ‘Rivet Catcher’ from Great North Eastern.
The Beresford is a perfect place to start or finish your journey. With affordable, yet beautiful accommodation why not top or tail your overland adventure with a cosy room, warming open fire and a delicous pint?
RESTAURANT HJEM
Nestled in the quaint village of Wall, amidst the serene beauty of Northumberland, Restaurant Hjem beckons with its intriguing fusion of local ingredients and Scandinavian culinary artistry. The name “Hjem,” resonating as “yem” in both Northumbrian and Scandinavian dialects, embodies the essence of home and unity—bringing together the best of Northumbrian produce with the finesse of Scandinavian cooking techniques and values.
Hjem is the dream project of Swedish chef Alex Nietosvuori and his partner, Northumberland-born Ally Thompson who have joined forces to create a destination restaurant which represents the very best of their respective backgrounds, in the heart of Hadrian’s Wall country.
An absolute magic! It’s a theatre of image, smell and taste. Accompanied by amazing staff to tell you the story along side. Had the best time.
THE POTTED LOBSTER
The Potted Lobster in Bamburgh offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience, where the emphasis is on fresh, locally sourced seafood. With 20 years of culinary expertise, head chef Richard Sim curates a menu that celebrates simple yet delicious flavors, utilizing the finest ingredients from nearby shores and farms. The diverse à la carte menu and daily specials board showcase an array of mouthwatering seafood creations, ensuring there’s always something new to savor.
Sim’s passion for local produce is evident in every dish, creating lasting partnerships with local suppliers to guarantee top-quality ingredients. The restaurant also caters to dietary needs with thoughtfully crafted dairy-free and gluten-free options.
A true Gem in a truly majestic setting overlooked by Bamburgh castle situated in the multi-award winning Bamburgh Village.
THE LORD CREWE ARMS
Nestled in Blanchland, The Lord Crew Arms boasts a rich history dating back to 1165, originally serving Blanchland Abbey before the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Today, they proudly uphold this legacy, steeped in moorland charm and cultural heritage.
Under the guidance of Paul Johnson, a local talent with global culinary experience—from the USA to Cornwall and beyond—The Lord Crewe’s kitchen thrives on his passion for North East flavors. After running his own successful pub in Wylam, Paul joined, emphasizing local suppliers and seasonal ingredients in their menus.
The Lord Crewe’s cuisine celebrates simplicity and a deep connection to its surroundings, blending heritage with modern creativity. Expect a tapestry of flavors, from delicate dishes to comforting classics, all impeccably prepared. The Lord Crew Arms offers not just a meal, but a culinary journey through the essence of North East England, reflecting Northumberland’s commitment to quality and regional pride.
THE JOLLY FISHERMAN
The Jolly Fisherman in Craster is where tradition meets seaside charm. Overlooking the stunning Dunstanburgh Castle and the North Sea with a charming boat harbour below this historic venue features stone flagged floors, low beamed ceilings, and cozy seating, preserving its authentic character.
Enjoy dining amidst the stunning views at one of Northumberland’s most cherished spots. The menu highlights a variety of fresh catches including Crab Soup, North Shields Dressed Crab Salad, and locally sourced Craster Landed Lobster. For those who’ve had their fill of seafood, savor on homemade Steak, Ale and Mushroom Raised Pie alongside a variety of veggie dishes.
The Jolly Fisherman prides itself on sourcing the finest ingredients from local suppliers such as Lindisfarne Oysters, Frank Round Fish Merchants of North Shields, and Trotters Family Bakers in Seahouses. Every dish at The Jolly Fisherman reflects the essence of Northumberland’s rich culinary heritage.
Work up an apetite on our favourite beach walk from Low Newton to Craster (grab a cheeky pint at the infamous Ship Inn and a light bite – just for good measure) and make your way across the vast beach, under the watchful eye of Dunstanburgh Castle. If you’re lucky catch some basking seals or a dolphin or two. Rain, shine, wind or hail this walk will never fail to impress.
THE RAT INN
The Rat Inn is a quintessential country pub nestled in the heart of the Tyne Valley, renowned for its award-winning British cuisine, fine wines, real ales, and warm hospitality. The sandstone exterior and cozy interior adorned with polished oak, flagstones, open fires, and whimsical chamber pots hanging from the ceiling create a charming atmosphere beloved by both patrons and critics alike.
Guests flock from afar to experience The Rat’s seasonal menus, crafted around locally sourced ingredients that vary daily to showcase the best available produce. Whether dining in the cosy bar, the conservatory with panoramic views, or the elegant dining room, every setting promises a memorable experience.
In addition to its inviting indoor spaces, The Rat boasts a picturesque beer garden offering stunning valley views—a perfect setting for enjoying drinks or dining al fresco during warmer months.
RESTAURANT PINE
Awards just keep coming and coming for Pine, not only a Michelin starred restaurant it’s just landed 10th in National restaurant awards.
Restaurant Pine, the brainchild of Northumberland natives Cal and Sian Byerley, resides in a converted cow barn offering an intimate dining experience against the backdrop of rolling Northumberland hills and Hadrian’s Wall. The bespoke open kitchen allows guests to witness the culinary artistry firsthand.
The restaurant prides itself on a generous tasting menu showcasing ingredients foraged locally or grown in their onsite kitchen garden, served Wednesday to Saturday evenings and Saturday lunch. Reflecting its surroundings, Restaurant Pine exudes a warm, country charm.
Diners can immerse themselves in the culinary spectacle of the open kitchen, complemented by curated wine flights from Head Sommelier Vanessa Stoltz. Emphasizing local, seasonal produce, the menu evolves daily based on fresh harvests from the kitchen garden and foraging expeditions across Northumberland.
Co-created by Cal Byerley and Ian Waller, the menu celebrates the best of British ingredients, promising an exceptional and relaxed dining experience rooted in passion and excellence.
BEWICK'S
We recently discovered an absolute gem in Rothbury to share with you all! Bewick’s bistro has completely won us over with its perfect blend of sophisticated dining and warm, welcoming atmosphere. After a day of wandering through Northumberland’s stunning countryside, this is a great place to relax and treat yourself.
Executive Head Chef Kevin Mulraney’s has a very impressive background – we’re talking 3 Rosettes and a Michelin Star from his time in London, plus classical French training at the prestigious Naval & Military Club where he served royalty! But what really matters is how this expertise translates to the plate! The menu is simply outstanding – every dish we’ve tried feels like a creative take on classic favorites, all crafted with seasonal ingredients that really let the flavors shine.
Here’s what we love most – while the food is definitely high-end, there’s nothing pretentious about Bewick’s. You can pop in for a casual coffee and cake (their desserts are absolutely divine, by the way), grab a hearty brunch, or settle in for a memorable dinner. They’re open Monday through Saturday for all meals, and their Sunday roast is pure comfort food perfection.
The wine list deserves a special mention – it’s been carefully selected to complement the menu perfectly. And the service? Always spot-on, friendly, and attentive without being overbearing. If you’re doing the Northumberland 250 route, do yourself a favor and make Bewick’s a priority stop. It’s exactly the kind of place that makes us excited about how Northumberland’s food scene is evolving. Guaranteed – you won’t be disappointed!
THE RUNNING FOX
As we were mapping out the perfect stops along the Northumberland 250, we knew we had to include The Running Fox at Kirkharle Courtyard. This charming artisan bakery and tearoom has become one of our absolute favourite recommendations for visitors exploring the route, and for good reason! Nestled in the historic Kirkharle Courtyard, it’s surrounded by beautiful stone buildings and delightful boutique shops that make it impossible not to fall in love with the setting.
We’ve stopped here countless times during our travels, and I can personally vouch for their incredible homemade offerings. Everything – and I mean everything – is baked fresh daily, from their crusty loaves to their tempting pastries. But let me tell you about their afternoon tea – it’s become legendary among our Northumberland 250 travelers! Think generous portions of freshly made sandwiches, warm scones slathered with clotted cream and jam, and the kind of cakes that make you want to throw your diet out the window. And if you’re more of a savory person like me, their award-winning pies and sausage rolls are absolutely worth pulling over for.
What makes this spot extra special on the N250 route is its perfect timing – open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, it’s ideal for that mid-journey break when you need to recharge and refresh. We always tell our route followers that this isn’t just a pit stop – it’s a chance to experience a true slice of Northumbrian hospitality and culinary heritage. Trust us, whether you’re starting your day with breakfast or taking a leisurely afternoon break, The Running Fox is one of those memorable stops that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal!
THE CREEL & REEL SEAFOOD TRAILER
If you find yourself in Bamburgh with a craving for fresh, locally sourced seafood, the Creel & Reel Seafood Trailer is the place to be. This hidden gem may be small in size, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to delivering some of the best seafood in Northumberland. Located conveniently near the beach car park, just a short stroll from the iconic Bamburgh Castle, this humble trailer is a haven for seafood lovers looking for an authentic taste of the North Sea.
Specialising in freshly prepared, no-fuss seafood, Creel & Reel is all about quality over quantity. Their ever-changing menu depends on the day’s catch, ensuring diners experience the freshest fish and shellfish available. Expect mouthwatering options like monkfish & chorizo skewer lemon mayo, rocket & wrap; scallops, garlic butter & toast; steak and king prawn skewer & scallo & bacon roll!!
What sets Creel & Reel apart is not just the exceptional food, but the unbeatable setting. Overlooked by Bamburgh Castle there’s nothing quite like enjoying a plate of beautifully cooked seafood while breathing in the salty sea air and gazing at the dramatic coastline. With outdoor seating available, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, al fresco dining experience. Whether you’re passing through Bamburgh or spending the day exploring, this seafood haven is an essential stop on your Northumberland 250 adventure.
THE SHIP INN
Overlooking the rugged coastline of Newton-by-the-Sea, The Ship Inn is a charming seaside pub that encapsulates everything great about dining in Northumberland and a place that we travel to as often as we can. A favourite among locals and visitors alike, this historic inn is famed not only for its mouth-watering seafood and hearty pub classics but also for its warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a pint after a coastal walk or settling in for a leisurely meal, The Ship Inn delivers an authentic and memorable dining experience.
One of the standout features of The Ship is its dedication to fresh, locally sourced produce. The menu is very much towards a light meal, with kippers on toast, award winning pies, their crab sandwiches are divine and superb range of toasties.
If you’re a fan of real ale, you’re in for a treat—the inn boasts its own microbrewery, offering a selection of unique, house-brewed ales that perfectly complement the menu.
In the summer months lounging on the grass outside is quite something. Our favourite time to visit is outside of the summer season – with a roaring fire inside and a traditional bar and comfortable seating it’s a real treat to warm the extremities after a brisk beach walk.
The Ship Inn is the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer. Whether you’re seeking a warming meal, a refreshing drink, or simply a place to take in the breath taking views, this charming pub is a highlight of the Northumberland 250 route and also Overland Adventures’ favourite place.
THE BLACK SWAN
A historic inn with a contemporary twist, The Black Swan in Seahouses is a gastropub that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern, elevated dining. Having undergone an extensive refurbishment, this stylish pub now offers a refined yet relaxed setting for food lovers and adventurers alike. Located in the heart of Seahouses, it’s an excellent stop for those looking to indulge in locally sourced, expertly prepared cuisine while soaking up the atmosphere of this bustling coastal village.
The menu at The Black Swan is a celebration of Northumberland’s finest produce, featuring fresh seafood straight from local fishermen, quality meats from trusted butchers, and seasonal vegetables from nearby farms. Signature dishes include beautifully presented seared scallops, succulent steaks cooked to perfection, and a rich seafood chowder that captures the essence of the North Sea in every spoonful. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for too, with creative plant-based options that go beyond the ordinary.
No visit to The Black Swan would be complete without sampling one of their expertly crafted cocktails. With a team of skilled mixologists behind the bar, you can expect a selection of innovative and classic drinks that add an extra touch of indulgence to your meal. Open daily from lunchtime until late, this gastropub offers the perfect mix of sophistication and warmth, making it a must-visit destination on your Northumberland 250 journey.
AD GEFRIN
Nestled in the heart of Wooler, Ad Gefrin Bistro is more than just a place to eat—it’s a celebration of Northumberland’s rich history, culture, and locally sourced produce. Situated within the award-winning Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery, the bistro offers a warm and welcoming space where visitors can indulge in seasonal dishes inspired by the region’s finest ingredients. Whether you’re stopping by after exploring the museum or simply looking for an exceptional dining experience, this hidden gem is well worth a visit.
At Ad Gefrin Bistro, the focus is on high-quality, locally sourced produce, with a menu that changes to reflect the best ingredients each season has to offer. From hearty breakfasts and light lunches to indulgent afternoon teas, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. You’ll find a tempting selection of freshly prepared meals, from Northumberland-reared meats to seafood sourced from the nearby coast. Their homemade cakes and pastries, paired with a cup of locally roasted coffee, make for the perfect mid-afternoon treat. And, of course, no visit would be complete without sampling a dram of Ad Gefrin’s very own whisky, distilled on-site as a tribute to the region’s deep-rooted heritage.
The bistro’s interior is just as inviting as its menu, with a modern yet rustic design that echoes the warmth and craftsmanship of the Anglo-Saxon period. Large windows flood the space with natural light, offering views of the rolling Cheviot Hills, while the relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch with friends, a family meal, or a quiet coffee after a morning of sightseeing, Ad Gefrin Bistro offers an authentic taste of Northumberland in a truly unique setting.
If you’re exploring Northumberland and looking for a dining experience that combines history, heritage, and exceptional food and not to mention the incredible Award Winning Whisky Distillery, Ad Gefrin Bistro is a must-visit. With its dedication to local flavors and warm hospitality, it’s a place where every meal tells a story—one deeply rooted in the landscape and traditions of this remarkable region.
We would love to hear from you if you have experienced the wonderful eateries here in Northumberland and the North East of England. Just submit a comment below telling us where you ate and why you loved it!
To check out what the NLand250 has to offer visit our Northumberland 250 page!
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