Drink and dine in the best pubs in Northampton with Chef & Brewer
The thriving market town of Northampton is steeped in history, dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. Surrounded by leafy green spaces, winding waterways and stately homes, it offers visitors the idyllic beauty of the countryside alongside the energy of a vibrant town.
While other East Midlands hotspots such as Derby and Nottingham, Grantham and Loughborough may be firmly hailed as getaway hotspots, we believe Northampton's unique appeal deserves far greater recognition.
Landmarks, such as Althorp House and Delapré Abbey, are within easy reach, as well as the Northampton Arm of the impressive Grand Union Canal, a 137-mile waterway that links London to Birmingham. The town has also undergone significant renovation in recent years, carefully preserving its historic charm while boosting its appeal as a hub for culture and entertainment.
Northampton is also an area filled with a generous selection of welcoming pubs, including charming Chef & Brewer inns. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming place to rest your feet, somewhere to enjoy a well-earned drink, or a tempting retreat to indulge in a delicious meal, settle into one of our pubs and savour the moment.
Our restaurant menus are filled with great pub food, including seasonal surprises and comforting classics to feast on, like Sunday roasts, fish and chips, and hearty pies. Our bars are stocked with plenty of drinks, and our staff are prepped to pour, from beers, lagers and ales to mixed spirits, classic cocktails and low and non-alcoholic options.
Enjoy scenic views from our pubs with beer gardens. We've also got dog-friendly pubs for your four-legged friends, as well as family-friendly locations that cater to all ages.
Whatever occasion brings you to Northampton, make sure a visit to a Chef & Brewer pub is on your itinerary.
Find your nearest pub in Northampton
Discover the best pubs near Northampton
Finding the perfect pub for your trip to Northampton can mean many things. You might favour a characterful country pub with a story to tell, or a waterside setting made for basking in the summer sunshine.Perhaps it’s a family-friendly spot with a plate to please even the pickiest of little eaters, or a hidden gem tucked away in a nearby village waiting to be discovered.
At Chef & Brewer, our collection of pubs spans near and far, so there’s always a cosy inn to welcome you in and make you feel at home.
The Britannia rules
Perched on the banks of the River Nene, the Britannia is a historic tavern beloved by locals. It's not far from Northampton centre, yet it feels wonderfully rural thanks to its waterside views and leafy beer terrace – the ideal place to park yourself with a refreshing drink on a warm summer’s day. Families particularly love the Britannia thanks to the warm interiors and vast menu of pub classics, with a dedicated restaurant menu for young guests to keep meals stress-free. Dogs are always welcome, and in the winter, you can grab one of the coveted tables by the pub's roaring fireplaces.
Beautiful beer garden
Dating back to the 16th century, the Greyhound is a pub that has been delighting guests for generations. Nestled in the picturesque village of Milton Malsor, you can breathe in the fresh countryside air from the large beer garden, as well as the fresh lavender blooming from the plant boxes. Whether you're stopping by for lunch or a hearty dinner, there are plenty of tempting options on the menu to experience. And if you're keen for a post-pub stroll, there are plenty of country lanes and green spaces to enjoy.
Arms wide open
The Spencer Arms is another outstanding pub that's well worth a visit, whether you're stopping in for a mid-week treat or enjoying a weekend escape. Situated in the heart of the village of Chapel Brampton on Northampton Road, it was historically a coaching inn and is still filled with plenty of period gems. Step inside and soak up our pub’s warm character, from its exposed beams to its roaring inglenook fireplace. The cosy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a traditional, hearty pub meal as well as a glass of something special.
Find yourself at a Crossroads
Believed to have started its journey as a tollhouse, the Crossroads has plenty of charm, from the distinctive clock tower feature to the open fireplace and array of cosy nooks and crannies. The Grade II listed venue sits in the hamlet of Weedon, just a short drive from Northampton. As well as offering hungry guests an excellent selection of dishes, it also boasts fantastic function facilities for hire. Whether you’re planning a family celebration or gathering with friends, it’s the perfect setting to mark the occasion within its historic walls.
Food, glorious food
The Green Man Inn is an atmospheric local country pub near Northamptonshire that serves up a vast menu of quality British cuisine, with delicious options to suit everyone’s taste buds. Pick up a menu and settle down at a table in the pub’s inviting interiors. You can grab a seat near the fire for a cosy crackle or slide into one of the comfy banquette seats. The pub has space for plenty, with coaches accepted in the car park. There is also function space for hire, as well as disabled access, and free Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
More about Northampton
Northampton may have begun its story as an Anglo-Saxon settlement, but it has since grown into a vibrant market town with an impressive blend of attractions both old and new.Whether you’re keen to immerse yourself in rich history, stroll along the water, or indulge in a little retail therapy, Northampton offers something for every kind of visit. Here are some of the best attractions:
The River Nene
Flowing through the south of the town centre, it offers visitors scenic waterside views, while the nearby Northampton arm of the Grand Union Canal provides a peaceful route for leisurely walks and boat journeys.
The Northampton Museum and Art Gallery
Once renowned as one of Britain’s most important centres for shoemaking, Northampton’s heritage is still proudly preserved today. The Museum pays homage with one of the largest shoe collections in the world, celebrating the town’s globally significant footwear legacy.
Grosvenor Shopping Centre
From fashion brands and tech to gifts and health essentials, there’s no shortage of choice to tempt you at this shopping centre. Nearby, Rushden Lakes offers a mix of high-street favourites and designer labels.
78 Derngate
This visitor attraction is perfect for history lovers. It showcases striking Art Nouveau interiors remodelled by renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh in the late 1910s. There is also a boutique restaurant and a design shop to take a piece of art home with you
Abington Park Museu
A 15th century house filled with fascinating local history, from military exhibits to displays focused on the Victorian manor home itself.
Althorp House
Just beyond the town, you can explore the magnificent ancestral home of the Spencer family and the final resting place for Diana, the Princess of Wales.
Delapré Abbey
With a history of 900 years, this landmark offers history with a hands-on approach. You can tour the home as well as fire a bow and arrow, and create your own crest.
Find a Chef & Brewer pub in Northampton
Ready to discover the sights and delights of Northampton? Let's start with a Chef & Brewer pub! We've got a generous choice of cosy, country pubs just waiting to welcome you in. Enjoy a pint or a bite to eat and make the day a real event.
Soak up all Northampton has to offer before soaking up the setting of one of our pubs. Finding a pub near you is easy. Just put your postcode or location into our pub finder, and see what's close to you.