Latest news with #TheBotanist
Scottish Sun
05-07-2025
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Popular restaurant chain to close city centre location for good – months after closing three other sites
The restaurant and bar has been in the city for more than 10 years KITCHEN CLOSED Popular restaurant chain to close city centre location for good – months after closing three other sites Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR restaurant chain has closed one of its city centre locations for good just months after closing three other sites. The Botanist in Birmingham city centre has permanently closed with bosses saying it was a "difficult decision" to take. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 The Botanist in Birmingham City Centre has closed its doors for the last time Credit: Google Street View 2 The restaurant and bar has been in the city for more than 10 years Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk It comes after the New World Trading Company (NWTC), who are responsible for the chain, closed sites in Coventry, Sheffield and Chester earlier this year. Diners have enjoyed a decade of cocktails, Sunday roasts and trademark hanging kebabs at the restaurant on Temple Street since April 2015. And customers have taken to social media in confusion after its sudden closure. One perplexed user said: "The Botanist in Birmingham (Temple Row) has just closed. "I had a booking and they just cancelled as they are permanently closing." The restaurant has disabled its social media profiles and is now listed as permanently closed on Google. It had earned a respectable 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google reviews from nearly 3,700 customers. One happy customer shared just two weeks ago: "This is my type of restaurant/bar. "I love the sophistication, dedication, decor, vibrancy, atmosphere and everything about this restaurant!" A spokesperson for New World Trading Company said: 'We have made the difficult decision to close our Birmingham, Temple Street site. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but we believe is in the best interests for the overall health of the business. 'We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support and custom over the years and we hope to welcome them to our other Birmingham site located at Gas Street Basin, soon.' The company also added that the closure only affects their Temple Street site. It comes as the NWTC closed sites in Coventry, Sheffield and Chester in January. And that followed the shuttering of three other sites in October 2024. The company has been undergoing a restructure after encountering difficulties and confirmed the bars were not profitable. In October 2024 New World Trading Centre agreed a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), when it said it would refocus on its Botanist brand. Famous fast-food chain dubbed 'Britain's rudest restaurant' to close final UK branch and teases future plans A CVA is a restructuring measure that lets businesses continue to trade whilst also closing stores and pushing through rent cuts. The chain had experienced financial difficulties following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. As well as closing sites the group has rebranded others and opened a new Botanist site in Bournemouth in May. It currently operates 24 sites under the Botanist brand and also operates other brands including the Oast House, and the Trading House. A swathe of other restaurants are also shutting this month including a huge Asian chain and beloved fine-dining spot. It comes as the restaurant industry struggles amid high energy prices, wholesale costs and tax hikes.
The Sun
05-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Popular restaurant chain to close city centre location for good – months after closing three other sites
A POPULAR restaurant chain has closed one of its city centre locations for good just months after closing three other sites. The Botanist in Birmingham city centre has permanently closed with bosses saying it was a "difficult decision" to take. 2 2 It comes after the New World Trading Company (NWTC), who are responsible for the chain, closed sites in Coventry, Sheffield and Chester earlier this year. Diners have enjoyed a decade of cocktails, Sunday roasts and trademark hanging kebabs at the restaurant on Temple Street since April 2015. And customers have taken to social media in confusion after its sudden closure. One perplexed user said: "The Botanist in Birmingham (Temple Row) has just closed. "I had a booking and they just cancelled as they are permanently closing." The restaurant has disabled its social media profiles and is now listed as permanently closed on Google. It had earned a respectable 4.3 out of 5 stars on Google reviews from nearly 3,700 customers. One happy customer shared just two weeks ago: "This is my type of restaurant/bar. "I love the sophistication, dedication, decor, vibrancy, atmosphere and everything about this restaurant!" A spokesperson for New World Trading Company said: 'We have made the difficult decision to close our Birmingham, Temple Street site. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but we believe is in the best interests for the overall health of the business. 'We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support and custom over the years and we hope to welcome them to our other Birmingham site located at Gas Street Basin, soon.' The company also added that the closure only affects their Temple Street site. It comes as the NWTC closed sites in Coventry, Sheffield and Chester in January. And that followed the shuttering of three other sites in October 2024. The company has been undergoing a restructure after encountering difficulties and confirmed the bars were not profitable. In October 2024 New World Trading Centre agreed a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), when it said it would refocus on its Botanist brand. Famous fast-food chain dubbed 'Britain's rudest restaurant' to close final UK branch and teases future plans A CVA is a restructuring measure that lets businesses continue to trade whilst also closing stores and pushing through rent cuts. The chain had experienced financial difficulties following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. As well as closing sites the group has rebranded others and opened a new Botanist site in Bournemouth in May. It currently operates 24 sites under the Botanist brand and also operates other brands including the Oast House, and the Trading House. A swathe of other restaurants are also shutting this month including a huge Asian chain and beloved fine-dining spot. It comes as the restaurant industry struggles amid high energy prices, wholesale costs and tax hikes. What is happening to the hospitality industry? By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out. Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation. Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny's closing branches. Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs. Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon. Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans
The Sun
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
The 17 best bars and restaurants with stunning panoramic views across the UK this summer – is one near you?
FROM the bright lights of Liverpool, to London landmarks and waterfront locations, these bars and restaurants have some of the best views in the country. Whether a hearty meal is what you're after, or a summer cocktail, Design My Night has revealed the places to book if you want one with a view. 7 7 Cocktails taste better than if there's a view to marvel over, which is why The Alchemist is a popular spot in Leeds. The bar is tucked away on the second floor of Leeds ' Trinity shopping centre, and is considered an unorthodox cocktail bar. Outside you can sip on an Espresso Martini and take in the city sights from the heated terrace. There's also a winning pocket-friendly food menu inspired by worldwide cuisines if you get peckish. The Aviary Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is one of the most sought-after destinations in the heart of London. It's described as the 'ultimate rooftop experience' where you can take in views over the London skyline. Up on the 10th floor there's lots of comfy seating and even luxe igloos. There are specially crafted cocktails as well as a huge list of spirits including 27 types of gin. For anyone who fancies the views and a meal, if you book a Sunday roast for 90 minutes, you can get bottomless red wine for £30pp. In Newcastle, you'll find The Botanist, a rooftop haven for anyone who loves vintage interior and quirky cocktails. The UK's best beach bar – with DJ sets, sunset views and signature cocktails 7 7 Head up to the rooftop that has a domed glass ceiling or outside on the terrace. You can try The Plant Pot cocktail recommended by the bartender with bourbon, amaretto, kiwi puree and honey. If that hasn't persuaded you yet, the Botanist offers Happy Hour from Monday to Friday 4pm - 7pm . During this time you can get any 2 Cocktails for £15.95. All pints are £4.95 and get a bottle of house wine or fizz for £15.95. Over on the outskirts of Liverpool is the stunning Lakehouse. Its location on Crosby Coastal Park means you get beautiful views over the water from the terrace. Whether you head out after a long day at work, or meet up with friends, it's recommended you sit outside and take in the views at sunset. They don't just offer tasty drinks, there's lots of dishes too like shakshuka and homemade American buttermilk pancakes. One very popular seaside location is the Palm Court Restaurant on Brighton Palace Pier. It's location on the promenade means it's suspended above the water and has panoramic seaside views. Of course it offers champion fish, from cod and chips to a scampi basket, and you can head there after taking on the slots in the arcade. The Chaophraya in Edinburgh has views of Edinburgh Castle and Firth of Forth and golden hour is simply unmatched on the rooftop. It's a contemporary Thai restaurant where you can enjoy a sharing set menu and cocktails like a Chiang Mai Old Fashioned and 1942 Martini. 7 One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: "Wonderful food in beautiful surroundings with amazing views over the city." Another added: "The view with the sunset was priceless! We will be back when we have another trip to Edinburgh!" Bristol is home to one of the top places to eat with a view in the UK - Riverstation The restaurant sits on the waterfront and has a balcony and terrace that you can enjoy in the warm weather. The inside is equally lovely with warm interior and huge windows so you can still enjoy the landscape from the inside. Another riverfront location is in London at Vicinity. It's right across from Tower Bridge so you can see it in all its glory around a fire pit. As one of the most affordable London restaurants with a view, it's got a menu starring stone-baked pizzas and burgers as well as an extensive cocktail menu. You'll find the Windows Restaurant in the Carlton George Hotel in Glasgow, where you can enjoy some of the best views in Scotland. It's in the heart of the city so you can stare out at the historic landmarks. The restaurant offers everything from breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea. 7 The Alchemist in Manchester also has incredible views and you can even get a cherry fog bubble cocktail to go with them. Make sure to head out onto the terrace to take some great pictures of the city which lights up in the evenings. Liverpool's Gino D'Acampo was brought to you by the celebrity chef himself. It's one of the best Italian restaurants in the city and has a 360 Sky Bar. If you go between 3-6pm on Sunday to Thursday, you'll hit Happy Hour. A short drive from Bristol is what's been called 'punter's paradise', aka, The Windmill Inn, in Portishead. It dishes out homemade food and has incredible views of the coast whether you're inside or out. If you don't just want great views, but also want a party, Wagtail Rooftop Bar and Restaurant is for you. Inside the art deco building is plush seating and fancy food that really feels like you're a VIP. And thanks to its late-night license, it also has resident a DJ and evening parties. In Manchester is 20 Stories, which is a bar that is literally 20 storeys high. The high-style destination is at the top of Spinningfields and has sweeping views which you can take in on the large outdoor terrace that's covered in natural greenery. Over in Bath is the Square Grill House & Piano Bar which has views o the impressive Bath Abbey, and inside it's decorated with plenty of flowers and foliage. There are lots of dishes from Italian pasta to whole lobsters and as for drinks there's an extensive wine menu. This bar is all in the name, which is Panoramic 34. It's in Liverpool and has incredible sights at every turn from the city to River Mersey. It offers indulgent afternoon tea, top-quality wine and has great food in the fine dining restaurant. 7
Wales Online
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
These 16 lush hidden gardens and rooftop terraces in Cardiff are perfect to enjoy a drink in the sun
These 16 lush hidden gardens and rooftop terraces in Cardiff are perfect to enjoy a drink in the sun The sun's shining in Costa del Cardiff so it's time to find a suntrap rooftop for a cheeky pint The Botanist has a gorgeous, urban terrace, right in the city centre (Image: The Botanist ) The sun's shining in Costa del Cardiff, and you know what that means: it's time to hunt down the perfect rooftop or terrace spot for a cheeky pint or a crafted cocktail. From hidden gardens and swish city-centre terraces to sky-high suntraps, Cardiff's alfresco scene is seriously bringing the vibes this summer. Expect thirst-quenching Aperol spritzes above antique shops, rooftop DJs, and bottomless brunches with plenty of fizz and tunes. Slap on some SPF, gather your squad and prepare to sip, snack and sunbathe around the balmy capital. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Rhostio Down below, pedestrians might be blissfully unaware that just above them is one of Cardiff's most underrated rooftops. (Image: Portia Jones ) On a busy stretch of Crwys Road, amid a jumble of independent cafés, late-night takeaways, and student pubs, there's a rooftop bar that feels like Cardiff's best-kept secret. Above a former car showroom, hipster hangout Rhostio has surprisingly cool rooftop terrace views over Crwys Road, the railway line and the city skyline. Down below, pedestrians might be blissfully unaware that just above them is one of Cardiff's most underrated rooftops. Along with a decent drinks offering and chill vibes, Rhostio has also cultivated a strong sense of community with a rotating calendar of events, from comedy nights and live music sessions to wine-tasting evenings and rooftop DJ sets that keep the party going as dusk falls. Article continues below 16C Crwys Rd, Cardiff The Botanist Cardiff Central (Image: The Botanist ) The Botanist is known for its fantastic brunch boards, carefully crafted cocktails, beautiful leafy décor and inviting roof terrace above Cardiff city centre. Gather your squad and soak up the sunshine on their swish roof terrace, the perfect place for a sunset dinner and drinks in the city. Try one of their famous 'hanging kebabs' served with properly seasoned chips and follow with a summery Peppered Peach Mojito. 10 Church St, Cardiff Flight Club (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) Since opening in 2022, Flight Club's heated terrace adorned with botanical décor has become a firm favourite in the city. Sit in cosy cabins or a vintage circus caravan and pose for photos in a disco phone box. With the roof terrace half under cover and areas like the shed also undercover, it's a top spot to head to all summer, no matter what the Welsh weather is doing. While known as a Social Darts hub, Flight Club has plenty of events and summer socials to keep you entertained throughout the year. You can also toast the weekend in style with their two-hour brunch social from noon, which features Prosecco, beer, bottomless pizza, and a Social Darts sampler. 3-4 St Mary Street, Cardiff Bacareto Bacareto's secret terrace on Church Street (Image: Bacareto Instagram ) Inspired by the laid-back bàcaris of Venice, Bacareto brings small plates, good wine and relaxed vibes to Cardiff. This informal bar and café is a fresh addition to the city's food scene, serving tasty tapas-style dishes alongside cocktails, beers and spritzes. Pop in on a Monday and grab an Aperol Spritz for just £6 all day. And if the sun's out, head upstairs, there's a hidden rooftop terrace perfect for soaking up the rays with a crostini in one hand and a cold spritz in the other. 13 Church St, Cardiff Gin and Juice Gin and Juice is where it's at (Image: Michael Lloyd Photography ) Stylish, continental and effortlessly cool, Gin and Juice is the perfect people-watching perch in Cardiff. Inspired by the charm of Parisian cafés and New York's West Village vibe, its cosy High Street terrace is ideal for sipping, snacking and soaking up the city centre buzz. As you'd expect, gin is the highlight here, with more than 350 varieties, but there's also a great selection of wines, beers and other spirits if you fancy something different. Pop in during the day for healthy breakfasts, fresh lunches or a virtuous juice if you're keeping it light. 6 Castle Arcade, Cardiff Brewhouse & Kitchen (Image: Brewhouse & Kitchen ) This large pub and brewery in Sophia Gardens has two expansive outdoor areas for drinking and dining, one at the front and one at the back. The dining area at the back of the venue is well covered and even has heaters if the Welsh weather suddenly turns. Check out their tasty menu of proper pub classics and their signature 'beer can chicken' dish, which is coated in a dry rub and then roasted over a can of Brewhouse & Kitchen American Pale Ale. Make sure also to sample some of their home-brewed signature beer or book one of their awesome beer masterclasses. Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff Zero Degrees Tucked away above busy Westgate Street, the rooftop at Zero Degrees is one of Cardiff city centre's best-kept secrets and a proper little sun trap to boot. While everyone else scrabbles for pavement tables below, head upstairs at Zerodegrees (you'll need to be dining) and bag yourself a spot on the rooftop. With views of the Principality Stadium, it's the perfect perch for whiling away an afternoon and basking in the warmth. Order a freshly fired pizza, grab a pint of their ever-changing craft brews, and soak up the sunshine from one of the two outdoor terraces. 27 Westgate Street, Cardiff Mocka Lounge (Image: Mocka Lounge ) If you've spent any time on Mill Lane, chances are you've clocked Mocka Lounge—a sleek cocktail bar and alfresco hotspot that's long been a favourite with Cardiff's Friday night crowd. Mill Lane comes alive when the sun's shining, and Mocka is right at the heart of the action. As the outdoor tables fill up and the music gets louder, the whole street takes on a proper summer party vibe. It's not just about the drinks either. While soaking up the rays, you'll want to tuck into some tasty food. And if you're after something special, Mocka's Bubbles and Brunch is where it's at. For £35 a head, you get 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco, Mimosas, Peroni, mocktails or soft drinks alongside a cracking three-course meal. Expect big tunes, feel-good energy and plenty of fizz as you sip and brunch in style. 1-2 Mill Ln, Cardiff The Pen & Wig (Image: Pen & Wig ) Situated in the heart of the city centre, the award-winning Pen & Wig has a large and busy beer garden, which is wildly popular with everyone from local students to city centre workers. It has a great selection of benches in its dog-friendly urban outdoor area and sheltered seats if it rains. This reasonably-priced pub is a great place for outdoor drinking in the city centre that won't break the bank. The pub has a brilliant choice of ales from local breweries and beyond, ciders, wines, and Welsh spirits. Drinking and dining with mates? Try the Signature Combo, loaded with chicken goujons, chicken wings, crispy calamari and Camembert, served with cheesy garlic ciabatta and a selection of dips. 1 Park Grove, Cardiff Ty Mawr On sunny days, the garden is where it's at, especially as dusk falls and you can see city lights in the distance. (Image: Facebook / Tymawrcardiff ) Perched on the edge of Cardiff with sweeping views over the Vale, Ty Mawr is a proper gem of a pub that feels far from the urban centre. With its rustic charm, countryside setting and cracking beer garden, you'll want to linger for a long lunch or a lazy afternoon in the sun. Inside, there's a smart restaurant and a lovely barn-style function space for bigger get-togethers, but on sunny days, the garden is where it's at, especially as dusk falls and you can see city lights in the distance. Round up your mates, order a round, and don't miss the Hunter's Chicken Schnitzel—breaded chicken topped with crispy smoked bacon, cheese sauce, melted mature Cheddar, a BBQ drizzle, and triple-cooked fries. Tidy. Graig Rd, Cardiff Pontcanna Inn The Pontcanna Inn, which is a great spot to enjoy a pint on a summer's day or some live sport. (Image: Rob Browne /WalesOnline ) The Pontacanna Inn is another lovely terraced drinking establishment in Cathedral Road. This revamped venue has two fantastic terraces, one at the front and one at the rear of the pub, and also offers boutique B&B accommodation. The back terrace has been overhauled in recent years, undoubtedly making it one of the most impressive in the city. Previously an empty car park, the pub has converted it to a huge outdoor space, with covers when needed, and can now hold up to 270 seats and double that standing. The space can also be hired for private functions and has a range of craft beers, real ales, cider, wines, cocktails and spirits. It's a great place to watch live sports on their huge TVS with your mates. 36 Cathedral Road Lab 22 It may have been voted one of the best bars in the UK, but most won't realise that the decorated venue has a tiny heated terrace in the middle of the city centre. Sip on crafted, award-winning cocktails in luxurious surroundings. Book a table with your mates and prepare to be wowed by their daring mixology. Their premium cocktails change regularly, so you never know what kind of shaken and stirred delights you may encounter on your next visit. 22 Caroline Street, Cardiff The Heathcock (Image: Mark Lewis ) The Heathcock in Llandaff pairs great food with a laid-back pub atmosphere and a sunny garden. It's a smart spot for sipping local ales in the sunshine and tucking into seriously good food from their award-winning kitchen. This Michelin Bib Gourmand pub was recently named one of the UK's best pubs with secret gardens by chef Tom Waters of Cardiff's Michelin-starred Gorse. The Heathcock was the only Welsh pub to make The Telegraph list and was praised for its relaxed Sunday evening vibe and sun-trap garden. The menu makes the most of seasonal produce from the Vale and Cardiff, with standout dishes like hake, lamb, pork belly, and their signature ham hock and leek pie. Out the back, the peaceful garden and fragrant herb beds make it a great spot for a long lunch or early evening pint. 58-60 Bridge St, Cardiff The Dock (Image: Portia Jones ) If you're heading down to Cardiff Bay for a sunny pint, make sure The Dock is on your radar. It's a top spot for a laid-back afternoon by the bay with two outdoor terraces overlooking the water. Inside, huge floor-to-ceiling windows mean you'll still get cracking views while you tuck into your food. The waterside terrace is especially popular in the warmer months, so if you bag a seat, settle in and make a day of it. And keep an ear out for the regular live music sessions, featuring some of Cardiff's finest crooners adding smooth vibes to your sundowners. Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Laguna Bar and Kitchen (Image: Laguna Bar and Kitchen ) Swanky Laguna bar at the Park Plaza hotel has a hidden outdoor terrace at the back that's a bit of a local secret. It's a quiet leafy terrace that offers a tranquil retreat from city life and overlooks a small stream. You can order drinks, feast on bar dishes, or treat yourself to delicious traditional afternoon tea. Park Plaza, Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff Jacob's Antiques Perched about the Jacobs Antique Centre, this secret oasis has an incredible urban vista (on a day when rain is not forecast). (Image: John Myers ) Wine with a view over Cardiff's skyline? Yes, please! And the best part? You can enjoy this idyllic scene from the rooftop of an antiques shop—one of the city's best-kept secrets. Above the Jacobs Antique Centre, this hidden oasis offers epic urban views (as long as the Welsh weather plays nice of course). Article continues below Don't miss the Roof Garden Bar's summer opening party on May 3rd, where you can soak up the views, groove to great tunes, and sip on cocktails. It's the perfect spot to kick off the summer season in style. W Canal Wharf, Cardiff
The Independent
18-04-2025
- The Independent
UK pub walks for the Easter weekend, from leisurely countryside rambles to refreshing coastal strolls
The UK is blessed with more than 140,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways, meaning that you're never very far from a wonderful walk through our green and pleasant land. A ramble is a fine thing in itself, providing untold health benefits for both body and mind. But many would argue that a really good walk requires a good pub at the end of it. What could be better than a table by a fireplace, a good meal and a stiff drink after a lengthy stroll through the countryside? With that in mind, here are 12 top routes for a stroll across the UK countryside, from Sussex to Scotland, and, of course, where to stop for a quick pick-me-up before heading home. Seven Sisters circular walk from Birling Gap, Sussex Duration: 3-4 hours There are few sights as quintessentially 'English' as the Seven Sisters – the undulating succession of chalk cliffs facing out into the Channel. Start at Birling Gap then take the coast path west, passing across the clifftops before turning inland to follow the winding River Cuckmere. Turn right again at Westdean and follow the public footpaths towards Friston and East Dean. Be sure to stop at the latter for a drink at the Tiger Inn, a 15th-century tavern serving real ales and hearty grub, before walking the last mile back to the starting point. Ribblehead Viaduct Whernside circular walk, Yorkshire Dales Duration: 4 hours Starting from Ribblehead train station, follow the trackside footpath northwest – almost immediately, you'll see the elegant arches of the Ribblehead Viaduct on your left. Keep going until the path eventually crosses the railway line. A short way beyond the crossing, you'll come to Force Gill waterfall. The route then wends its way around Whernside before turning sharply uphill for the summit – one of the highest in the Dales. It's a steep climb but worth it for the sweeping views. Descend back towards the starting point, with a short detour to the Station Inn for a restorative pint. Thames Path from Battersea Park to Kew Gardens, London Duration: 3 hours There's no need to leave London to find fine views and fresh(ish) air. The Thames Path is a rich and rewarding journey through the heart of the capital. The section along the southern bank from Battersea Park to Kew Gardens is undoubtedly one of the prettier stretches, passing through inner-city woodlands and wetlands, past parks and boat clubs, cricket pitches and tennis courts while the river slips by. Upon reaching Kew, it's just a short hop down to The Botanist, a smart gastropub with a metropolitan menu and a strong selection of wines, beers and cocktails. Blakeney Point wildlife walk, Norfolk Duration: 3 hours This brisk and breezy walk on the north Norfolk coast can be challenging underfoot, since much of it is shingle. But those who persevere may well be rewarded with an up-close view of the UK 's largest seal colony. From the National Trust car park at Cley, follow the beach west for two miles, then turn left when you come to the grassy dunes. Follow this path until you reach the Old Lifeboat House, then turn right along the boardwalk. From here at other times of the year, you may be able to spot the seals – they come here to breed between late October and mid-January. Be sure to keep a safe distance and keep dogs tightly leashed. Retrace your footsteps to the car park, then make the short trip into Cley, where you'll find good gastropub fare and a convivial atmosphere at The George & Dragon. Cheddar Gorge loop, Somerset Duration: 3 hours This four-mile National Trust circuit follows a craggy route along the sides of the largest gorge in England. Head up Cufic Lane, opposite the visitor information centre, then turn right onto the footpath. The route is well-signposted with waymarkers, so it should be easy to follow. Continue along the northern clifftop – there are views of the Somerset Levels and Glastonbury Tor on a clear day – until you reach the road at Black Rock Nature Reserve. Cross over, and follow the arrows along the gorge's southern flank back towards Cheddar. From the visitor centre, it's a 10-minute walk into the town centre, where you'll find the Riverside Inn, a gastropub beside the Cheddar Yeo river. Port Eynon to Oxwich, Gower Peninsula, Wales Duration: 3-4 hours The Gower Peninsula is sorely underrated outside of South Wales. It was the UK's first AONB, and any stretch of its 39-mile coastline is worthy of exploration. One of the best bits is the path from Port Eynon to Oxwich as it's beautiful and relatively easygoing. Walk through the nature reserve into Oxwich village, then head back to where you started via the inland route, passing the impressive castle (really just a grand house with military pretensions, and also sadly closed this time of year). Once in Port Eynon again, grab a table at the Ship Inn, an old smugglers' haunt with strong local ales on tap. Bourton-on-the-Water circular walk, via Lower Slaughter, Cotswolds Duration: 4 hours This rambling loop through the Cotswolds starts in the honeypot village of Bourton-on-the-Water. From there, follow the River Windrush through gently rolling hills towards Naunton (pause to admire the wonderful 17th-century dovecote) before turning east towards the River Eye. Turn right at the river and follow it down through Upper Slaughter and onward to Lower Slaughter. From there, it's another half-hour walk back to Bourton, where you'll find the Kingsbridge, a warm and welcoming venue offering cask ales and strong cider alongside a menu of pub classics. Bamburgh Castle to Waren Mill, Northumberland Duration 2-3 hours From the gates of Bamburgh 's imposing Norman fortress, head down to the coast path and turn left, going past the lighthouse and the Newtown Gun Emplacement, with the Farne Islands visible out to sea. Skirt the edge of Budle Bay until you reach the pretty little hamlet of Waren Mill. You can then return the way you came, or cut inland, passing the Grace Darling Museum as you head back into Bamburgh. Stop in at the Lord Crewe before heading for home – it's been providing bed and board to weary travellers for more than 850 years. Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh Duration: 2 hours Making the lung-busting ascent up Arthur's Seat is not for the faint-hearted – it's a steep 251m climb to the summit. Still, for many in Edinburgh it offers a favourite outdoor jaunt in the heart of the city. The best place to start is the entrance near Holyrood Palace. Go past St Margaret's Well and bear left at the fork. Follow the path to the hill's peak, admire the views, then descend via the zig-zagging steps. If you can, it's worth making a detour down towards Duddingston, where you'll find the Sheep Heid Inn at the foot of the slope. It's an inviting country-style pub with a convivial atmosphere and, most unusually, its very own skittle alley. Castle Ward shoreline circuit, Northern Ireland Duration: 1-2 hours This trail partly follows the southern shoreline of Strangford Lough, the largest sea inlet in the British Isles and a good place for birdwatching. Start at the Shore Car Park and follow the path, keeping the water to your right. Almost immediately, you'll pass Old Castle Ward, which fans of HBO's Game of Thrones may recognise as Winterfell Castle. The path curves inland shortly after passing another historic monument, Audley's Castle. Follow it past the ornamental canal, then either cut across the parkland back to the car park or continue following the boundary path to extend the walk. For a glass of something medicinal, and perhaps a bite to eat, head into nearby Strangford and grab a table in The Cuan. Porthdinllaen marine trail, Llŷn Peninsula, Wales Duration: 1-2 hours This two-and-a-half-mile National Trust trail treads through a Welsh wildlife haven from Mora Nefyn car park. Head down onto the sand to follow the beach past unfinished sea defences and sand martin nests until you reach the hamlet of Porthdinllaen. Here, walkers can reward themselves with a local brew mid-coastal stroll at the Tŷ Coch Inn – accessible only via foot for non-residents. Carry on around the seagrass-studded headland past the lifeboat station onto the golf course for views across the bay before you loop back to the car park. Kinloch Hourn to the Old Forge, Inverie, Scotland Duration: 1-2 days Clocking in at 15.5 miles long, this trail to the most remote pub on mainland Britain is one for the serious steppers and ultimate pub enthusiasts. The route from Kinloch Hourn to The Old Forge, Inverie, is a one-way hike on the edge of the Knoydart Peninsula that committed pint sinkers can complete over one or two days. Climb the gravel path past Loch Hourn to Barrisdale Bay with views of Ladhar Bheinn mountain and pitch up for a deserved picnic before ascending to Mam Barrisdale. Finally, follow the Highland cows down to Loch an Dubh Lochain and keep plodding until you reach the village of Inverie and the legendary Old Forge for a frosty ale.
