‘Best pub lunch on A69’ revealed in Northumberland hamlet

A riverside pub is one of the best stops in the Tyne Valley, customers say, describing it as a ‘charming pub in a lovely setting’.

Sunday lunch at The Boatside Inn, Warden (Image: The Boatside Inn)

The Boatside Inn, situated in the picturesque hamlet of Warden, is just a few miles west of Hexham and minutes from the A69.

It combines a traditional stone‑built pub, beer garden and B&B rooms beside the River South Tyne, making it a popular choice for motorists breaking their journey or exploring Hadrian’s Wall.

The Boatside Inn’s website said: “Whether you’re joining us for a relaxed lunch, an evening meal, a Sunday roast or a peaceful overnight stay, you’ll enjoy freshly prepared seasonal food, regularly changing specials, an excellent selection of beers, wines and spirits, and a warm Northumbrian welcome.

The Boatside Inn has ‘lovely and polite’ staff, reviews said (Image: The Boatside Inn)

“With comfortable guest accommodation, a peaceful riverside setting and award-winning food, The Boatside Inn is the perfect destination for visitors exploring Hexham, Hadrian’s Wall and Northumberland, as well as for locals looking to enjoy great food, quality drinks and genuine hospitality.”

Tripadvisor reviews praise the ‘lovely cosy’ atmosphere, ‘delicious’ food and ‘attentive’ staff.

One review said: “What a lovely place to eat. We happened on this place by chance on our visit to Hexham. We loved it so much we went for lunch two days in a row.”

Fish and chips (Image: Tripadvisor)

Another said: “Atmosphere is lovely. Food and drinks are so nice – we had soup of the day and some side dishes.

“It was delicious and just enough for us. After dinner we also ordered sticky toffee and raspberry crumble, which were amazing. Again, highly recommend this place with very friendly staff.”

One reviewer said it was the ‘best bar meal’ they’d eaten ‘in ages’.

“We were in the area for the races and a walk and booked online here. Lovely cosy pub, dog friendly, staff were attentive and very helpful re the menu choices. Service was quick, and food was amazing. Worth every penny. Well deserved after a long walk.”

Food at The Boatside (Image: Tripadvisor)

Another added: “Visited with friends for the first time and we all enjoyed the food and friendly service. The menu choices were nothing too fancy, with standard basic pub food on offer. The food was absolutely delicious and well presented. I have to say it was faultless and one of the best pub lunches I’ve had for a long time.”