The Hatton Arms, Hatton

This place, with stunning views over Hatton Locks, recently underwent a refurb and is looking more gorgeous than ever. Think lots of cosy soft furnishings, low lighting and real wood fires. There’s also a fully covered terrace with loads of blankets if you’re feeling like braving the great outdoors.

Ye Olde Saracens Head, Balsall Common

This pub is really popular (for good reason) and is busy every time I go – so if you want more than a drink make sure you book. Food is reasonably priced and staff are attentive. There’s lots of nooks and crannies nestled next to log fires for a cosy evening chatting away with friends and family, and if you’re feeling brave enough to sit outside, don’t worry – there’s heaters and fairy lights for extra ambience. Cute.

The Cock Inn, Wishaw

Muddy covers the West Mids now – did you know? And we’ve got to shout about this place! Food is great, ambiance is great and drinks are even better. There’s a lovely dining area but also some snug areas to chill out and have a catch up with friends over a bottle (or two).

The Howard Arms, Ilmington

Can you get cosier than sitting next to the fire in a chocolate-box, 400-year-old Cotswold-stone inn on the village green? I think not. This pub, just outside Shipston-on-Stour has delicious menus with locally sourced food and home-baked bread – we love the sound of the Cotswold partridge with braised red cabbage and bread sauce. There’s rooms available too if you decide to make a night of it.

The Greyhound, Longford

Right next to the canal is this no frills pub, which always seems to be busy whether the fire is roaring or the sun is shining. On a cold day though it’s a great place for settling down for the evening with a glass of red (or a whiskey) and ordering one of their delicious homemade pies. If ale’s your thing too then you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

The Stag at Offchurch, near Leamington

The quiet, unassuming village of Offchurch is home to this little gem, with cool interiors (including toasty log burners) and a stand-out menu – anywhere which includes a ‘pork supper’ is alright by us. It’s very child and dog-friendly too so take either, or both if you’re very brave! Make sure you get the truffle and parmesan chips, they’re as decadent as they sound.

The Boat, Muckley Corner

Ok so not a pub per se but it is super cosy. This place has just received its third Michelin star and the food is (unsurprisingly) amazing. A three course Sunday lunch will set you back £45 with a four course dinner coming in at £65. Maybe leave your snuggly dog walking coat and Uggs at home though.

The Yew Tree, Avon Dassett

This small, thriving country pub is the perfect place to stop on Autumnal circular walks. It’s stylish, cosy and traditional and a huge hit with locals and visitors alike. There’s loads of local drinks with offerings from the likes of Cotswolds Distillery Dry Gin, Shakespeare Distillery’s Stratford Gin and Newbold Spirit. If you fancy something a little warmer how about a cup of Warwickshire artisan roasted coffee from Stratford’s ethically-sourced Monsoon Estates. Check out our review for the full report.

The Bulls Head, Meriden

Wood clad interiors, cushty armchairs and in the centre of Meriden (one of Muddy’s Best Places to Live 2022 doncha’ know?) Expect yummy pub grub in this cosy 17th century coaching inn. Also perfect for whiling away a few hours with a bottle of red.

The Castle at Edgehill, near Kineton

A quirky country pub and restaurant in a 15th century castle, with 4 AA rosettes no less. It’s a super-friendly, relaxed and cosy historic inn. Snuggle up in the panelled library with its roaring fire, have a drink in the bar with its characterful nooks and crannies and dine in the restaurant or glasshouse which has floor-to-ceiling panoramic views over the famous Civil War battlefield. Here’s our review.