Rose and Crown, Yardley Hastings

Temperatures have dropped, it’s dark at midday (ok, slight exaggeration) and there’s only one warm thing on the local horizon! The roaring fire of the cosiest, cutest, loveliest pubs in Northants.

As it begins to get chilly and the only kind of chill you crave is the vibe; venture to these pubs for hearty food, a relaxed atmosphere and of course a generous splash of wine… After all it’s goodbye summer fruity gins and hello rich reds!

Overstone Arms, Pytchley

Nestled in the rolling hills of Northants, this absolute classic will have you feeling comfy in no time. With mains ranging from teriyaki tuna to burgers, there is something for the whole Muddy gang. Oh and I almost forgot to mention that they show BT Sport – the Muddy man will certainly be amused and the teens can make the most of the wifi (some things will never change.)

Tollemache Arms, Harrington

Situated in the beaut village of Harrington, which is beyond quaint and almost reminiscent of The Holiday (you better have watched the film), snuggle up (like Cameron Diaz) to a fab menu of food. The pizzas are sure to leave you feeling stuffed and I’m not talking about the stuffed paella crust! With its rustic family feel you won’t be disappointed if you are searching for a tres cosy eve.

Narrowboat, Weedon

This pub has cosy written all over it PLUS it boasts rooms for a sleepover if you’ve imbibed a bit too much vino. All rooms are en-suite, with one even being pooch friendly – how brill is that, no dog sitter needed? The food itself is equally as suitable for a winter eve. The oven pots are the highlight of the menu and try the Mac and Cheese for simple, homely happiness on a plate.

Rose and Crown, Yardley Hastings

Owned by two sisters, this pub in Yardley Hastings offers a wooden beam kind of cosy and lots of yummy bar snacks. With totally affordable white and red wine, why not pair them with a tasty platter or freshly made ciabatta. This pub is certainly an English Rose, ideal for a drink and bite to eat with a gal pal or beau when you need a well-deserved break from the Mudlets.

Fox and Hounds, Lower Harlestone

A very popular family favourite that was revamped just over a year ago, the funky art deco is modern and chic, but still cosy of course. The Fox and Hounds also has great food on offer, especially for a Sunday roast with the fam. Beef, Chicken, Pork, Lamb, nut roast, or be extra greedy and choose the trio, clearly the Fox and Hounds hits the mark with its tradish english cooking, all to be enjoyed in relaxation with plenty of parking and a spacious dining area.

Butchers Arms, Greens Norton

Upon this pub’s revival by dedicated locals, the plush leather sofas, quirky chandeliers and antique style coffee tables are screaming to be enjoyed as the weather becomes a little more frosty. The vintage bookshelves add a touch of boho as well as passing the time over a pint. The Butchers Arms (appropriately) serves plenty of good quality meat, as well as having a constantly changing specials board. For fussy eaters this pub is perfect, whether its kids, pals or the relatives, the intimate setting offers cosy, cosy and a just a touch more cosy.

The Crown, Weston

Quoting #freecoffee will earn you a free cup of joe with light lunch, just a small touch that makes The Crown a King of cosy (and as the weather gets a bit bitter, a hot bev is an essential). Lunches from Weds-Sat are a bargain, costing only £8 for 1 course. Wednesday’s Fresh Fish night is also a steal at £20 for 2 courses, who knew luxury could also be low-cost? The log burners and velvetty Sherlock style chairs are a win win combo for a quick afternoon – or after meal snooze.

The Wheatsheaf, Dallington

Hidden in the heart of Northants, this favourite amongst locals, with all locally sourced produce, definitely puts the heart in hearty food (except on Mondays because they are closed.) You’re spoilt for choice here: from gnocchi to fish or treat yourself to a steak. Feeling a little more adventurous then head here on Sunday for a full three courser.. at least it will ward off the Monday blues.

The Hopping Hare, Duston

This pub has some funkiness going on with its bright orange and green furniture that looks like something out of an interior design mag (these are the kind of sofas we all want to have in our living rooms to snuggle on). The Hopping Hare is a Hotel so it’s ideal for a mean and overnight stay as it is only a hop away (2 miles to be precise) from the town centre. The food does not disappoint either, it’s all about top notch meat, with pork, pheasant, cod and a duo of beef all up for grabs.

Red Lion, East Haddon

Open 7 days a week and positioned just 8 miles from Northants town centre, you can cosy up to this countryside pub whenever you fancy. Not to mention that there is also a Hotel (you’ll never run out of mini ‘staycation’ ideas this season). The food is equally as noteworthy and it also has an onsite cookery school, so many people concur the grub is good. Big on flavour, favourites include BBQ Rack of Ribs, Moroccan spiced couscous and peppers and Cajun chicken burgers. If you’re looking for super tasty cuisine in a welcoming setting then get yourself here pronto.