The Northumberland Arms

Tel:
01670 787370
MapWebsite

A handsome 1820s coaching inn on the banks of the River Coquet, once built for the 3rd Duke of Northumberland and now lovingly restored without losing any of its period charm. Just off the A1 at West Thirston, it's an easy stop whether you're heading up the coast or inland towards the Cheviots.

The kitchen leans on a seasonal menu with plenty of locally sourced ingredients, served either inside by the fire or out on the newly expanded terrace overlooking the river and its 16th-century bridge. Six individually decorated rooms make it a good option if you fancy turning a meal into an overnight stay.

Good to know

  • Restaurant: Mon–Sat 12pm–9pm, Sunday 12pm–8pm
  • Bar: Mon–Sat 11am–11pm, Sunday 11:30am–10pm
  • Six ensuite rooms available

Our Time at The Northumberland Arms

We dropped in on a quiet Friday afternoon, once the lunch rush had cleared, and found the conservatory a lovely spot to sit — bright, airy, and with Meg happily stretched out by the open door. Lucy's steak pie was the clear winner of the table (proper pastry, rich gravy); Tom's schnitzel was perfectly good but no match for it. The jam roly-poly with custard and ice cream, though, easily earned a place in our top three Northumberland puddings.

Service was excellent throughout and the riverside setting, right on the Coquet, makes it an easy stop if you're passing through on the A1. Good for a relaxed lunch rather than a quick bite — and dog-friendly, which always helps.

Read the full story from our visit: A Friday Lunch in Felton.