Britain's highest pub, perched at 1,732 feet above sea level, sits amid expansive Yorkshire moorland, providing a respite for ramblers and drawing visitors who regard it as a treasured secret destination. The Tan Hill Inn, located near Richmond but isolated in reality, delivers a genuinely remote atmosphere for those approaching on foot.
A Centuries-Old Sanctuary
The existing stone building dates from the 1600s, though an inn has occupied the spot even earlier, serving as a sanctuary for exhausted wanderers. While its form has changed over the decades, its function has remained constant. Today it operates as an inn with accommodation for reservation and as a pub and restaurant serving hearty, classic pub fare.
Inside, it exudes a distinctly British character with crackling hearths and timber joists, creating a welcoming environment where hikers and cyclists congregate after a day outdoors. One visitor said: "Talk about in the middle of nowhere! Loved the location. I wish I lived there. I just went to be able to say I've been there, but it was fabulous."
Walking Routes and Scenic Drives
The pub is enveloped by Yorkshire's vast countryside, positioned between the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines National Landscape, with several hiking destinations nearby. Closest is High Greygrits, a peak on the boundary between the two areas; its trig point lies approximately two miles from the pub, allowing trekkers to reward themselves with a drink or meal after the climb.
Standing at 522 metres, the summit demands challenging moorland trekking with intermittent steep stretches, though generally it represents an achievable objective for hillwalkers. Alternatively, about 90 minutes away on foot and a 50-minute drive is Wain Wath Force, a cascade along the River Swale beloved by outdoor enthusiasts, with multiple walking trails winding through the National Park.
For those preferring creature comforts, a simple visit to the pub alone might suffice, and it's approximately a 45-minute drive from Richmond, Yorkshire.
