The Trent Lock

You'll find this sprawling Vintage Inn right where the waterways meet, and the canal-side terrace is exactly where you want to be on a decent day. The setting does most of the heavy lifting – barges chugging past, ducks paddling about, that proper English countryside-meets-industrial heritage vibe that works so well around these parts. Inside, it's the usual Vintage Inn formula done well: exposed beams, flagstone floors, and enough nooks to feel intimate despite the size. The menu hits all the gastropub standards without trying to be clever – think proper fish and chips, decent steaks, and Sunday roasts that actually arrive hot. Staff know their stuff and don't hover. It's not going to win any culinary awards, but when you're watching the world drift by from that terrace with a pint in hand, you really won't care.