Gastropub of the Year
The Kirkstyle Inn & Sportsman's Restaurant
The Kirkstyle Inn & Sportsman's Rest brings together the best of a traditional country pub and ambitious, produce-led cooking. Led by Head Chef Connor Wilson, the kitchen champions Northumberland’s produce, working closely with small local producers, neighbouring farms and the surrounding estate. Wild game, pasture-bred sheep and cattle, and fish from the Northumberland coast and The Tyne feature prominently, with Connor often buying whole animals to maximise every part and minimise waste. Classic cooking techniques sit alongside preservation, pickling and fermentation, with the same thoughtful approach extending to the pub’s bar snacks and menus. Guests can choose from à la carte, Sunday lunch and six or ten-course tasting menus, including dishes such as roasted venison haunch with butternut squash, pickled walnut and Hen of the Woods. The drinks offering is equally considered, with more than 350 wines curated by Nick Parkinson, an extensive by-the-glass selection and wine and non-alcoholic flights available alongside the tasting menus. The Kirkstyle Inn has earned three AA Rosettes and recognition from the Michelin Guide and Good Food Guide, alongside Gold Pub of the Year at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2026 and a North East England Regional Win at the National Pub and Bar Awards. Most recently, in September 2026, it was named Best Pub for Food at the Great British Pub Awards.
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