The Lord Nelson in Southwold, Suffolk, England, is a popular coastal pub.

The Betjeman Arms, St. Pancras, London

1. Whether you want a last pint before zooming beneath the Channel to France orBelgium, or a first taste of the best of British ale, hasten along to The Betjeman Arms, a comfortable pub in St. Pancras Station, home of Eurostar. Part “gastro” (good food) and part pub (good beer), this is a highly successful modern take on the railroad pubs of old.
   Planning: Opening hours: 10 a.m.–11 p.m.

The Royal Oak, Borough, London

1. Situated close to the spot where the Tabard Inn in Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales supposedly stood, this pub has its own pilgrims, who come to contemplate the magnificent beers of Sussex brewer, Harveys. Keeping alive the traditions of London pub life, it is a good place for that time-honored pub activity: conversation.
   Planning: Opening hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m., weekdays; 12 p.m.–11 p.m., Saturdays; 12–6 p.m., Sundays.

The Bricklayer’s Arms, Putney, London

1. This compact Victorian gem—with wooden floors, old photos on the walls, and a central bar—lies hidden away down a small cul-de-sac not far from the Thames. Run by former actress Becky Newman, it is a showcase for Timothy Taylor’s range of pristine Yorkshire ales. There are also guest ales, occasional beer festivals, and delicious food in the evenings.
   Planning: Opening hours: 12–11 p.m.; 12–10:30 p.m., Sundays.

The Thatchers Arms, Mount Bures, Essex

1. Sitting atop a ridge, The Thatchers Arms overlooks the Stour and Colne valleys, beloved of the locally born landscape painter John Constable. This is also excellent walking country, and The Thatchers Arms is an ideal place to relax after a ramble. Order a plate of traditional pub food, such as bangers and mash, and wash it down with a pint of local Brewers Gold.
   Planning: Opening hours: 12–3 p.m., 6–11 p.m., weekdays (closed Mondays); 12–11 p.m., weekends.

The Anchor, Walberswick, Suffolk

1. Walberswick is everyone’s idea of an English country village, in which The Anchor presents its own distinctive style. A prime example of 1920s’ “Tudorbethan” architecture, it has a bright two-roomed bar, while a sea-facing terrace offers space for alfresco eating and drinking. Plump down for Adnams’ real ales, a tremendous wine list, and a superb menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
   Planning: Opening hours: 11 a.m.–4 p.m., 6–11 p.m., weekdays; 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Saturdays; 12–11 p.m., Sundays.