The Yew Tree Inn Bunbury – your classic Cheshire country pub

The Yew Tree Inn Bunbury is one of those Cheshire country pubs that people happily drive out of their way for – roaring fires, a proper bar with real ales, a big beer garden, and seriously good, locally sourced food in the middle of postcard-pretty countryside. Hidden between Bunbury and Spurstow on Long Lane, this independent 19th-century free house is the kind of place that works for everything from muddy-boots walks and dog-friendly lunches to special-occasion dinners and lazy Sunday roasts.

If you’re planning a visit and you’re searching for things like “Yew Tree Inn Bunbury menu”, “Yew Tree Inn Bunbury Sunday lunch” or “country pub with beer garden near Tarporley”, this guide pulls together everything you’ll want to know before you book a table.

Where is the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury and what’s it like?

Yew Tree Inn Bunbury location – between Bunbury and Spurstow

The Yew Tree Inn sits on Long Lane, Bunbury, CW6 9RD, straddling the border between Bunbury and Spurstow in rural Cheshire, a short drive from Tarporley, Nantwich and Chester.

From Tarporley: roughly 10 minutes’ drive south.
From Nantwich: about 20 minutes north-west.
From Chester: around 25–30 minutes via the A51.

You’re also close to some of Cheshire’s best countryside – the Shropshire Union Canal at Bunbury Locks, Beeston Castle, the Sandstone Trail and lots of circular walks, so it’s perfect as a starting or finishing point for a day out.

First impressions – a characterful 19th-century inn

Pulling up outside, you’re greeted by a distinctive red-brick and black-and-white timbered frontage – a classic Cheshire look which hints at the inn’s 19th-century origins.

Inside, expect:

Low beams and cosy nooks.
A central bar with cask pumps lined up.
A mix of traditional pub furniture and more contemporary touches brought in during a recent revamp under new ownership.

It manages to feel both like a proper village local and a destination dining pub, which is why it’s so popular with both locals and visitors. The pub has picked up multiple plaudits over the years, including recognition in guides for both good food and good beer.

Food at the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury – what’s on the menu?

Yew Tree Inn Bunbury menu – seasonal pub classics with a twist

The Yew Tree Inn Bunbury menu is all about pub favourites done properly – think bar nibbles, hearty mains and Sunday roasts – using local, seasonal produce with a modern twist.

Menus usually include:

Bar snacks & small plates – ideal for grazing with a pint.
Pub classics – fish and chips, burgers, pies, steaks and comforting dishes which change with the seasons.
Lighter bites – salads, sandwiches and smaller plates for lunch.
Desserts – classic puddings, often with locally sourced ingredients.

The kitchen team deliberately keeps things seasonal and flexible, so dishes can change regularly. For the very latest main menu, Sunday menu and kids’ menu, it’s always worth checking the official website’s “Menus” page before you visit.

Sunday lunch at the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

Yew Tree Inn Bunbury Sunday roast – what to expect

The pub has built a reputation for its Sunday roast dinners, which are a big draw for locals and visitors from across Cheshire.

Typical features of Sunday lunch at the Yew Tree Inn include:

A choice of roast meats (often beef, pork, chicken or lamb, depending on the season).
Proper roast potatoes, seasonal veg, Yorkshire puddings and gravy.
Vegetarian options and classic starters like soups or small plates.

Portions are generous without being over the top, and it’s very much the kind of Sunday roast that suits family gatherings, celebrations or post-walk lunches. Because it’s so popular, advance booking for Sunday lunch is strongly recommended, especially between autumn and spring or on Bank Holiday weekends.

Real ales, craft beers and wine list

Cask ales at the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

The Yew Tree Inn is also known for its well-kept cask ales and has featured in CAMRA’s beer guides. Expect a regularly changing line-up of local and regional beers on the pumps – breweries like Weetwood and Timothy Taylor often feature, alongside guest ales.

You’ll usually find:

Traditional bitters and golden ales from Cheshire and beyond.
Premium draught lagers and craft beers.
Occasional limited-edition or seasonal brews.

If you like your beer, this is very much a destination pub for real ale in the Bunbury and Tarporley area.

Wine, spirits and soft drinks

Alongside the beers is a solid wine list, a range of gins and spirits, and plenty of soft drinks and low/no-alcohol options, making it easy to cater for designated drivers or those not drinking.

Yew Tree Inn Bunbury beer garden and outside space

One of the inn’s biggest selling points is its large beer garden and meadow, which are ideal for sunny days and long summer evenings.

Spacious patio with lots of outdoor tables.
Grassy meadow area for kids to let off steam under supervision.
Umbrellas and shade for hotter days.

On fine days, it’s a perfect spot for a pint in the sun, al fresco lunch, or a post-walk drink after exploring the canal or local footpaths.

Is the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury dog-friendly and family-friendly?

Dog-friendly country pub near Bunbury

The Yew Tree Inn is widely regarded as a dog-friendly pub in Cheshire, especially popular with walkers and canal-boaters. Dogs are typically welcome in the bar area and outside, provided they’re well behaved and on a lead.

Because policies can change – and certain areas of the dining room might be dog-free – it’s always worth mentioning when you book a table with your dog so the team can seat you in the best spot.

Family-friendly atmosphere

With its relaxed feel, kids’ menu and outdoor space, the Yew Tree Inn works very well for families:

Children are welcome at lunchtime and early evening.
There’s a dedicated children’s menu with smaller portions of pub favourites.
High chairs are usually available – just mention any requirements when booking.

Booking, opening times and how to contact the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

Do you need to book the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury?

For weekend evenings, Sunday lunch and special occasions, booking is highly recommended as tables go quickly, especially in peak season and around Christmas. For impromptu midweek lunches, you may sometimes be able to walk in, but it’s still wise to reserve if you’re travelling.

You can usually:

Book online via the pub’s booking partner.
Or call the pub directly – the phone number and email are listed on the official website and menus.

Yew Tree Inn Bunbury opening hours

Exact opening times can vary with the season and for special events, but a typical pattern is all-day opening from late morning through to late evening, with food served at lunchtime and in the evening.

Because times and last food orders can change, always double-check the latest opening hours and serving times on the pub’s website or social media pages before you set off.

Parking and how to get to the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

Parking at the Yew Tree Inn

The pub has on-site parking for guests, and overflow parking may be available at busier times. If you’re visiting during a big event or peak Sunday lunch, it’s wise to arrive a little early to secure a space, or be prepared to park considerately on nearby roads where allowed.

Getting there by public transport

Bunbury is a rural village, so public transport options are limited. There are occasional local buses from nearby towns like Tarporley or Nantwich, but services are infrequent, especially on Sundays, so check timetables in advance.

Many visitors come by car or as part of a canal boat holiday, mooring near Bunbury Locks and walking up to the pub for lunch or dinner.

Walks near the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

One of the best things about the Yew Tree Inn is how easy it is to combine a visit with a Cheshire countryside walk.

Popular options include:

Bunbury Locks and Shropshire Union Canal – gentle towpath walking with views of the famous staircase locks, starting just outside the village.
Beeston Castle walks – several circular routes link Bunbury and Beeston Castle, giving you big views from the ruined hilltop fortress and a choice of lengths to suit your group.
Sandstone Trail – slightly further afield, the trail runs along the Cheshire ridge with views back towards Bunbury and the surrounding countryside.

The pub has even published its own Beeston Castle walk route starting and finishing at the Yew Tree, which you can download as a PDF from their website – ideal if you want a ready-made map and directions for a half-day out with a pub meal.

Staying near the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

While the Yew Tree Inn itself is focused on being a restaurant and pub rather than a hotel, you’ll find plenty of nearby accommodation in:

Bunbury village and surrounding countryside – B&Bs, holiday cottages and farmhouse stays.
Tarporley and Tattenhall – small hotels, inns and guesthouses in nearby villages.
Chester and Nantwich – a wider range of hotels if you’re combining your visit with a city break.

This makes the Yew Tree Inn a great choice for an evening meal during a Cheshire holiday, or as part of a canal boating route where you moor nearby and walk up for dinner.

Events, specials and seasonal menus

The Yew Tree Inn often runs seasonal menus, themed food nights and special events, especially around:

Spring and summer – garden-friendly dishes, lighter menus and outdoor drinking.
Autumn and winter – heartier dishes, game, and warming specials by the fire.
Festive season – Christmas menus, party nights and New Year celebrations.

For the latest on what’s happening – from special menus to live music or local events – keep an eye on their Facebook and Instagram pages, where they regularly share menus, photos and news.

Tips for visiting the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury

To make the most of your visit to the Yew Tree Inn Bunbury:

Book in advance for weekends and Sundays – particularly if you’re a larger group or have dogs/children with you.
Check the latest menus online – dishes change regularly with the seasons.
Pair your meal with a walk – canal towpaths, Bunbury Locks or Beeston Castle make for lovely pre- or post-lunch strolls.
Ask about dietary requirements – the kitchen is happy to discuss vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options so you can relax and enjoy your meal.
Arrive a little early – especially on busy days when the car park and bar can fill up quickly.