Top 10 Christmas Lunch Pubs to Savor

Have you considered enjoying Christmas dinner at a pub? For those visiting the UK during the holiday season, or wishing to simplify their festive preparations, pubs present an appealing alternative to upscale restaurants or preparing a feast at home.

While only a select few high-end eateries are available on Christmas Day, they often present their own unique gourmet takes on the traditional festive meal.

Planning Your Christmas Pub Experience

Pubs are renowned for serving a classic British Christmas dinner with all the traditional accompaniments. Moreover, since many pubs operate from the landlord’s family home, the ambiance tends to feel warmer and more inviting compared to a standard restaurant. However, before finalizing your plans, here are some essential considerations:

• Not all pubs are open on Christmas Day, and among those that are, not every establishment will be offering a food service.
• Christmas dinner in the UK is typically served as a midday meal, referred to as Christmas lunch.
• Pubs, much like restaurants and hotel dining rooms, may charge a premium for Christmas Day dining.
• Reservations should be made well in advance; most pubs accepting Christmas Day bookings begin around mid-November, with some starting as early as late October.
• A full payment or a non-refundable deposit is often required at the time of reservation.

If the cost of enjoying a Christmas Day dinner at a pub seems excessive, consider visiting during the earlier or later parts of the holiday season. Many pubs feature a seasonal menu throughout December, providing various traditional Christmas offerings at a more reasonable price.

Top Pubs for Christmas Dinner

The following pubs across England typically offer Christmas Day lunches or Christmas Eve dinners. Since pub policies and ownership may change, verifying their offerings by visiting their websites or calling in early October is advisable:

1. The Plough at Bolnhurst, Bolnhurst, Bedfordshire MK44 2EX, Telephone: +44 (0)1234 376274. This charming establishment, housed in a partly Tudor building, was recognized as the Bedfordshire Dining Pub of the Year. In the past, they provided a festive menu from December 1 to 23, among other holiday offerings. Always check for the latest seasonal plans in early November.
2. The Ferry in Cookham, Sutton Road, Cookham, Maidenhead SL6 9SN, Telephone: +44 (0)1628 525123. This beautiful pub exudes modern flair while still serving traditional fare. Vegetarian and non-meat options are also available. Enjoy holiday-themed bubbly and nibbles at the bar.
3. The Royal Oak, Yattendon, The Square, Yattendon, RG18 0UG Telephone: +44 (0)1635 201 325. This country pub offers a family-friendly atmosphere and has won certificates for excellence. In the past, their Christmas lunch was priced at £75 per person, including traditional favorites and champagne. Reach out in late October for this year’s Christmas information.
4. The Ship, Wandsworth, 41 Jews Row, Wandsworth, London SW18 1TB, Telephone: +44 (0)208 870 9667. Nestled near Wandsworth Bridge, this delightful pub serves both traditional and elegant lunch options on Christmas Day. Typically, menus were priced around £80 for adults and £40 for children.
5. The Bull at Broughton, Broughton, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 3AE. Telephone: +44 (0)1756 792065. A historic Yorkshire pub featuring local delicacies. Inquire about their fixed-priced Guinea Pig nights for trying new dishes.
6. The Grazing Goat, 6 New Quebec Street, London, W1H 7RQ, Telephone: +44 (0)20 7724 7243. A stylish gastropub near Bayswater and Marble Arch that serves traditional dishes with a modern twist. Their Christmas Day menu previously cost around £85 for four courses, with additional options for children.
7. The Red Lion, 2 Castelnau, Barnes, London SW13 9RU, Telephone: +44 (0)20 8748 2984. A year-round favorite for its inviting atmosphere and cozy decor. On Christmas Day, expect heartwarming meals in a festive setting.
8. The Masons Arms, Cartmell Fell, Cumbria, Telephone: +44 (0)15395 68486. This cozy spot, located near Lake Windermere, is celebrated for its traditional Christmas feast offerings. It is advisable to check their site or call for confirmation of holiday plans.
9. The Fox Goes Free, Charlton, Nr Goodwood, W Sussex PO18 0HU, Telephone: +44 (0)1243 811461. A charming 400-year-old pub situated near Goodwood. Whether you’re joining for Christmas dinner or a pre-holiday drink, their festive decorations are extraordinary.
10. The Lamb Hindon, Hindon, Wiltshire SP3 6DP, Telephone: +44 (0)1747 820 573. This historical pub has been a go-to for Christmas lunch for many years, serving multiple festive meals throughout the holiday season.