Visit the Highest Pub in England This Year

This special place is not just a regular pub it stands above all others, both in height and experience. Tan Hill Inn stands as the highest pub in England and serves up much more than just a drink.  It gives you a story, a memory and a moment that you’ll want to share with everyone you know.

Where Is the Highest Pub in England?

The Tan Hill Inn is located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, in North Yorkshire. It sits at an impressive height of 1,732 feet (528 meters) above sea level. That might not sound like much if you’re used to mountains or high cities, but in England, that’s as high as it gets for a pub. The inn is quite remote, sitting alone on a wide, open stretch of moorland, surrounded by rolling hills, windy skies, and pure countryside.
The journey to the pub adds to the excitement of the visit. You’ll drive along quiet country roads, pass through charming villages, and go higher and higher until you reach the top, where the pub sits like a little house on the edge of the world.

A Bit of History

The Tan Hill Inn has been around for hundreds of years, with records going back to the 17th century. It was originally built to serve workers from the nearby coal mines. Back then, it was a place for rest, food and warmth after long days of hard work. Though the mines have long closed, the inn has remained, growing in fame over time. Over the years, it has welcomed all kinds of travelers hikers, bikers, tourists, writers and even filmmakers. It’s featured in music videos, documentaries and TV shows. Even with all the attention it gets, the pub continues to hold onto its charm. It still feels like a cozy, welcoming place where strangers become friends.

What to Expect When You Visit?

A visit to the Tan Hill Inn is not like going to just any pub. It’s an experience from the moment you arrive.

Warm Hospitality

The first thing you’ll notice is how friendly and relaxed the atmosphere is. The staff are known for being warm and chatty. They’re happy to share stories, recommend food or drink or simply let you enjoy the place your own way. It’s the kind of pub where you feel like you’ve walked into someone’s home rather than a business.

Great Food and Drink

The inn serves traditional English pub food hearty, comforting meals made with local ingredients. You can expect dishes like:

• Homemade pies
• Fish and chips
• Roast dinners
• Burgers
• Vegetarian and vegan options

For drinks, there’s a good selection of beers, ales, wines and spirits. They often feature local breweries and small-batch drinks that you won’t find elsewhere. And yes, having a pint at the highest pub in the country does feel a little more special.

Cosy Fires and Rustic Charm

The inside of the pub is exactly what you’d hope for from a countryside inn stone walls, wooden beams, roaring fireplaces and simple but lovely furniture. On cold days, the warmth of the fire and the smell of food make it feel extra welcoming. There’s no rush. You can sit back, read a book, chat with strangers or just enjoy the peace and quiet.

Live Music and Events

Tan Hill Inn often hosts live music nights, special events, and even weddings. These events give the place a lively feel while still keeping its friendly, local charm. You might catch a folk band, a singer-songwriter, or even a full weekend of music and dancing during one of their seasonal festivals.

Things to Do Around the Pub

You might be surprised to learn there’s plenty to do around Tan Hill especially if you enjoy nature and being outdoors.

Walking and Hiking

The pub is a popular stop for walkers and hikers. It sits along the famous Pennine Way, a long-distance trail that runs through some of the most beautiful parts of northern England. Even if you’re not doing the full trail, you can take shorter walks in the area, with options for all fitness levels. You can walk through open moorland, spot birds and wildlife, and enjoy some of the best views in the Yorkshire Dales. Just be sure to bring good shoes and be prepared for changing weather.

Stargazing

Because Tan Hill is so remote, there’s very little light pollution. That makes it one of the best places in England to see the stars. On a clear night, you can step outside and see a sky full of stars, planets, and sometimes even the Milky Way. It’s an amazing experience, especially if you live in a city where stars are hard to see.

Wildlife Watching

The moors around the inn are home to all kinds of animals. Depending on the season, you might see sheep, deer, birds of prey, rabbits, and more. Spring and summer bring lots of life, while autumn paints the hills in gold and red. Even winter has its charm, with snow-covered hills and peaceful silence.

What Makes It So Special?

So, what makes the Tan Hill Inn more than just a high-up pub? It’s the combination of everything:

• The height gives it amazing views and a unique location.
• The pub’s rich history creates a deep feeling of tradition and charm.
• The atmosphere is welcoming and peaceful.
• The pub serves local food and drink that taste delicious and leave you satisfied.
• The surrounding nature offers beauty, silence, and adventure.

It’s not flashy or fancy. It’s simple, honest, and full of character. That’s what makes people keep coming back. And for many, visiting this pub becomes one of the highlights of their year or even their life.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re thinking about making the trip, here are a few tips to help you plan:

• Check the weather: Check the forecast, as weather on the moors often changes quickly. Bring layers and waterproof clothing, especially if walking.
• Book ahead: If you want to stay the night or visit during a holiday weekend, booking early is smart.
• Bring a camera: You’ll want to capture the views, the cosy inside, and maybe even the stars at night.
• Watch for sheep: The roads leading to Tan Hill often have sheep wandering freely, so drive carefully.
• Support local: Buying food, drink, or souvenirs helps support the inn and the local community.

Conclusion

In a world where everything moves fast, and places can feel the same, the Tan Hill Inn is a reminder of something different. It’s a place that slows you down, brings you closer to nature, and offers real connection with people, history, and the land itself. Whether you go for a meal, a drink, a weekend, or just to say you’ve been to the highest pub in England, you won’t regret it. It’s more than a tick on a travel list it’s an experience that stays with you.