SELECTED RESTAURANT
Hexham, United Kingdom
Discover The Rat Inn in Anick Hexham Northumberland United Kingdom
Nestled in the scenic Tyne Valley, The Rat Inn is a charming sandstone pub that captures the essence of countryside dining with a rustic beamed bar and leafy garden setting. This beloved spot in Anick, near Hexham, Northumberland, offers an inviting gastropub menu showcasing locally sourced, award-winning dishes that delight food lovers and travelers alike. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, The Rat Inn caters to families, groups, and solo visitors seeking a genuine Northumberland experience.
Exceptional dining with local flair
The kitchen at The Rat Inn crafts dishes that stand out for their quality and freshness. Guests rave about the classic and perfectly cooked meals like their renowned burgers, indulgent truffle mac and cheese, and fresh seafood starters rivaling fine dining standards. The pub emphasizes local ingredients, ensuring each plate bursts with authentic Northumberland flavor. Whether it's a hearty Sunday roast with perfectly seasoned chicken and vegetables or a carefully prepared prawn dish, the food consistently impresses visitors seeking a memorable meal in a relaxed setting.
A welcoming hub for community and visitors
Known for its friendly, attentive staff and cozy ambiance, The Rat Inn is a favorite for locals and travelers starting adventures like the Northumberland 250. Visitors appreciate the relaxed service, the lively yet comfortable bar area, and the beautiful beer garden offering fine views of the Tyne Valley hills and river. The pub is dog-friendly and family-friendly, making it an ideal stop for groups of all kinds. Guests also enjoy the well-curated selection of local beers, wines, and crafted cocktails to complement their meals.
Amenities and practical details
- Dine-in experience with freshly prepared dishes using local ingredients.
- Outdoor seating overlooking stunning Tyne Valley views.
- Family and dog friendly ensuring everyone feels at home.
- Free parking on site and street parking nearby for convenience.
- Multiple payment options including contactless cards, debit and credit cards.
Frequently asked questions about The Rat Inn
- What are the opening hours of The Rat Inn? The Rat Inn is open Wednesday to Saturday from 12:00 to 20:00, and Sunday from 12:00 to 15:00. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Is there parking available at The Rat Inn? Yes, The Rat Inn offers parking facilities for its guests.
- Does The Rat Inn have outdoor seating? Yes, The Rat Inn provides outdoor seating with views of the Tyne Valley.
- Is The Rat Inn family-friendly? Yes, The Rat Inn is family-friendly and offers a welcoming environment for all ages.
- Does The Rat Inn offer gluten-free options? Yes, The Rat Inn offers gluten-free options on its menu.
Community sentiment and recognition
The Rat Inn is highly regarded for its locally sourced, award-winning food and welcoming atmosphere. It has received glowing reviews highlighting the quality of its menu, attentive service, and the stunning countryside setting. Recognized in various food guides and local recommendations, The Rat Inn stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hexham and the Northumberland region.
The rat inn historical overview in hexham northumberland uk.
Nestled in the scenic Tyne Valley near Hexham, Northumberland, The Rat Inn stands as a remarkable example of British heritage and culinary evolution. This charming sandstone inn dates back to the 18th century and has long served as a traditional drovers' inn, welcoming travelers and locals alike amidst its rustic, beamed interiors and leafy garden setting.
The inn's historical journey took a transformative turn in 2007 when Karen Errington and Phil Mason acquired the property. Their passionate vision elevated The Rat Inn from a traditional countryside pub to one of the United Kingdom’s premier gastropubs, celebrated for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and refined yet comforting dishes.
Key milestones in the rat inn’s gastropub acclaim
Over the last two decades, The Rat Inn has consistently garnered national recognition for its excellence in gastronomy and hospitality. Noteworthy highlights include:
- 2007: Karen Errington and Phil Mason took over The Rat Inn, initiating its gastropub era.
- 2011: The Rat Inn earned a spot at number 41 on the prestigious Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list.
- 2014: The Rat Inn climbed the ranks to number 13 on the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list, cementing its reputation.
- 2024: Ranked number 14 on the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list, The Rat Inn continues its legacy of excellence.
A destination for authentic gastropub experiences
The Rat Inn combines its rich history with a modern gastropub vibe, offering guests gourmet interpretations of classic British dishes, a welcoming atmosphere, and breathtaking views over the rolling hills and the River Tyne. With its commitment to quality and community, The Rat Inn remains a beloved venue for both locals and visitors seeking the best of Northumberland’s food and drink scene.
Discovering The Rat Inn In Anick Hexham Northumberland United Kingdom
Tucked away in the scenic slopes of Tyne Valley, The Rat Inn offers a quintessentially English countryside pub experience. This charming sandstone inn, surrounded by leafy gardens, features a rustic, beamed bar that perfectly complements its gastropub menu crafted from locally sourced, award-winning ingredients. Food lovers will appreciate dishes like the truffle mac and cheese and outstanding mackerel starters, which rivals fine dining establishments, while the classic burgers deliver simple yet expertly executed flavors. The welcoming atmosphere sets a perfect tone for families, dog owners, and groups seeking a relaxed yet lively setting.
Highlights and guest experiences
Visitors rave about the outstanding quality and taste of the food, with local beers complementing the menu perfectly. Sunday roasts, especially the seasoned chicken and lamb, are consistently praised for their generous portions and flavor. The inn’s beer garden and front windows frame fine views across the hills and River Tyne, making outdoor seating a favorite spot during sunny days. Friendly staff deliver relaxed yet attentive service, ensuring guests feel remembered even during busy periods, although occasional kitchen staffing challenges may lead to brief waits.
Considerations before visiting
While The Rat Inn excels in many areas, prospective guests should be aware of a few limitations. The pub is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, restricting availability during the week. Additionally, there are no baby changing facilities, which may be less convenient for families with infants. The pub does not offer takeout or delivery services, so visitors should plan to dine in. Some seating is located in the bustling bar area, which might not suit those seeking a more intimate or quiet meal.
Why The Rat Inn is a must-try destination
- Locally sourced, award-winning food that delights discerning palates.
- Welcoming atmosphere with friendly and attentive staff.
- Stunning views of the Tyne Valley from both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
- Family and dog-friendly environment ensuring everyone feels welcome.
- Gluten-free options available catering to dietary preferences.
Gastropub
Open Now - Closing 10:00 PM
Monday
12:00–22:00
Tuesday
12:00–22:00
Wednesday
12:00–22:00
Thursday
12:00–22:00
Friday
12:00–22:00
Saturday
12:00–22:00
Sunday
12:00–17:00
Aggregated Ratings 4.0
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