9 Country pubs around Merseyside you need to try

There is nothing better than a trip out to a country pub at the weekend for a nice meal, sampling the drinks menu and just a change of scenery.

Check out these 9 country pubs around Merseyside for you to enjoy.

The Stanley Arms, Aughton, near Ormskirk

For great food, a lovely atmosphere and friendly staff, The Stanley Arms is a great destination for a run out to a country pub.

Family run and situated in Aughton, near Ormskirk, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to a traditional country pub.

Situated next to the historic St Michael’s Church and with a gorgeous beer garden, The Stanley serves traditional pub food, with daily specials, homemade chips, mouth-watering desserts and very popular Sunday roasts.

They also have a busy quiz night every Tuesday with cash and voucher prizes. Make sure you book a table for food though as they get very busy.

Call 01695 423241 to book.

The Ship, Lathom, near Ormskirk

With real fires, real ale, a canal side location and traditional menu, the Ship has everything you would expect from a country pub.

The menu is full of hearty dishes like steak pie, haddock goujons and sausage of the day. The broccoli and stilton soup comes highly recommended and sounds perfect as the temperature starts to drop.

More details and book here.

The Sparrowhawk, Formby

Set in five acres of woods and parkland, The Sparrowhawk is a picturesque and popular country pub and restaurant.

The attractive surroundings are matched by the traditional interior and good food, with a varied menu packed with traditional pub favourites and modern cuisine. We love the Appleby cheese, onion and potato pie and the crispy chilli beef starter is brilliant.

Nestled on Southport Old Road, just off the Formby By-pass, there is a peaceful atmosphere, even on the busiest of days. Sunday roasts are particularly popular and booking a few days in advance is recommended.

Find out more and book here.

The Hightown, Hightown, near Formby

Recently nominated in two categories for Great British Pub of the Year 2023, this family run establishment in Hightown is a must for a trip out to a country pub.

The Hightown has a lovely menu, is housed in a beautiful historic and building, and sits right next to a train station – so you can leave the car at home and sample a cask ale or glass of wine. There is even a steak deal on a Friday night when you can get two ribeye steaks, three sides, two sauces and a bottle of house wine for £39.95.

Great for families, with a lovely menu there is also regular entertainment and a popular quiz night. For warmer days there is a spacious beer garden and you can enjoy a walk on the beach before you tuck into your meal.

Find out more and book here.

The Star Inn, Rainford

A classic village pub serving good food and real ales in a traditional setting.

There is a pretty beer garden for the warmer aftenoons, and the Sunday roasts are very popular.

Make sure you book in advance though as food is only served until 5.45pm on a Sunday.

Call 01744 882 639 to book.

Devon Doorway, Heswall

With its Tudor timber and thatched roof, the Devon Doorway is the classic British village pub.

The menu lives up to the exterior and you can enjoy lunch or dinner from a selection that features classics like pan roasted lamb rump, veggie options including sweet potato curry, as well as burgers, pizzas, salads and much more.

The décor is a modern twist on tradition and with a fabulous outdoor area, the Devon Doorway is a must visit all year round.

Find out more and book here.

The Red Fox, Thornton Hough

The Red Fox is a stunning traditional pub set in gorgeous gardens.

With a menu featuring dishes like gorgonzola gnocchi, to crispy beef salad and Devon crab, there is something for all tastes.

The pub runs monthly dog walks in the beautiful surrounding countryside on the first Sunday of each month and hosts regular events. Tickets are available now for the Cider and Sausage Festival on 20-22 October which is sure to prove popular.

Call 0151 353 2920 to book.

Farmers Arms, Frankby

This traditional pub on the edge of Royden Park features real fires and a cosy interior, making it a great option for a drive out to the countryside. 

From traditional dishes like club sandwich and bacon chop, to modern favourites such as chicken katsu curry and Japanese prawns, you’ll be spoiled for choice by the menu. There are also speed quiz nights, cocktail offers and big screens for the football, which means you don’t have to miss the match if you fancy a country pub during the football season. 

And with a gorgeous and very popular beer garden, you might even be able to enjoy a bit of early autumn sunshine before the winter sets in.

Find out more and book here.

The Fishpool Inn, Cheshire

The Fishpool Inn, Delamere, is worth the trip if you are looking for the classic country pub experience.

It enjoys an ideal position on the edge of Delamere Forest and serves real ales, fine wines and freshly prepared food, ranging from the traditional to sandwiches, pizzas and gorgeous desserts. There is also a lovely children’s menu. You can even enjoy afternoon tea, featuring homemade scones, with added bubbles if you fancy.

Find out more and book here.

For more bars and pubs around Merseyside click HERE.