Harrington, a small village in Northamptonshire with just 154 residents, is drawing comparisons to the Cotswolds for its idyllic countryside and honey-hued stone cottages. It is also home to the Tollemache Arms, which has been named a 'Pub of the Year' by VisitEngland in its 2026 Awards for Excellence, securing bronze in the category.
A village of charm and history
Situated in the Welland Valley, about 30 minutes north of Northampton, Harrington features stretches of farmland, narrow lanes, and traditional stone farmhouses and country houses. The Church of St Peter and St Paul stands at the village centre, alongside Warner's Distillery Ltd, known for its farm-grown gins.
Visit Northamptonshire notes that footpaths and bridleways cross the surrounding fields, connecting Harrington with neighbouring villages and offering views across open countryside. The former railway line between Northampton and Market Harborough, once served by Lamport and Harrington station, is another reminder of the area's changing transport links.
The Tollemache Arms
Affectionately known as 'The Tolly', the 17th-century pub features a traditional thatched roof, open fire, and an elevated menu of locally sourced food. It prides itself on being a "thatched gem in the heart of Northamptonshire", with the website noting, "The kind of place you’d proudly call your local, and what many say is the best pint of Guinness around."
Beer is poured from Charles Wells and Brewpoint, while gins come from Warner’s Distillery in the village. The menu includes traditional pub dishes with an elegant, seasonal twist, from small plates and steaks to beer-battered haddock and Harissa beef skewers. The interior features exposed brick walls, chic furnishings, Velux windows, and a patterned floor, alongside an outdoor terrace.
Awards and recognition
In the VisitEngland awards, silver for 'Pub of the Year' went to The Tickled Trout in Barlow, Derbyshire, a two AA-Rosette gastropub. Gold was awarded to The Kirkstyle Inn and Sportsman’s Rest in Slaggyford, which offers en-suite bedrooms and a "field-to-fork philosophy" using local produce.
VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said: "The awards are a celebration of England’s outstanding tourism industry and an opportunity to highlight the excellence that makes it world-leading." He added, "I congratulate the wonderful range of first-class award recipients, all of whom are so passionate about tourism. They are all deserving winners."
