Discover tales of times gone by, dine in age-old inns, and sip tea from charming cafes as you wander through Foxton’s enchanting landscapes.

Follow Foxton Heritage Trail 

The Black Horse and its adjoining quaint companion, The Stables Tea Room, are ideally located for lovers of countryside walks near Foxton Locks. Upon approaching The Black Horse on Main Street, you’ll notice this village twosome is conveniently close to the Leicester Line of the Grand Union Canal. Even though the canal isn’t directly visible from the pub and cafe, The Black Horse boasts an impressively spacious sloped beer garden offering pleasant views and a weatherproof canopy-covered patio, perfect for outdoor dining and sunny alfresco drinks.

Over the years, the pub has built its reputation for generous home-cooked meals, pub classics and, since the tea room opened in April 2012, cakes, cream teas and homemade scones. The pub menu showcases dishes such as Ploughman’s, steaks, homemade sourdough pizzas, burgers and fish & chips, with several vegan and gluten-free options. The traditional Sunday lunch is particularly popular among both locals and visitors. Adjacent to the pub, The Stables Tea Room offers a warm atmosphere for those seeking a pub alternative. Homemade delights here include scones, cakes, hearty jacket potatoes, fresh baguettes and toasted sandwiches. The tea room serves a signature afternoon tea, which requires prior booking

The Foxton Locks Inn is either a reward for narrowboaters after successfully descending Foxton Locks or a place to gather your strength before working your way up Britain’s longest and steepest flight of staircase locks. It is also a scenic retreat for non-boating countryside lovers who simply want to chill out by the canal – because this Grade II-listed hostelry provides impressive views of the canal and local wildlife. This traditional pub can get busy due to its stunning location, but the team are well drilled, and there are plenty of places to sit, including the conservatory, pub, or outdoor terrace. On sunny days, the outside tables fill up fast, offering uninterrupted views of narrowboats gliding by. You can spend hours just watching the boats in this tranquil setting.

The menu caters to diverse palates. The Foxton Sandwiches, herb-crusted fillet of Seabass, Chicken Caesar Salad, and Fishcake of the Day served with herb potatoes and lemon mayo are just a few of the enticing options. Those craving comfort food might opt for the chargrilled Gammon Steak, breaded Scampi, or the crispy Chicken Burger. Vegetarians have a delightful choice too, such as the chef’s homemade quiche with leek, and cheddar cheese, accompanied by chunky chips and a fresh salad. To enhance your meal, The Foxton Locks Inn offers a selection of real ales, allowing guests to savour their drink while soaking up the sun on the terrace. And for dessert enthusiasts, a slice of cake paired with a warm coffee is the perfect ending to the meal.

Dog lovers will appreciate the dog-friendly touches, including a dedicated dog menu and water stations. Parking is available at the Foxton Locks Car Park, though a fee is required.
Whether for the views, food, or the relaxed atmosphere, The Foxton Locks Inn is a good option for anyone exploring Foxton.

The 18th-century Shoulder of Mutton is another Foxton option – and it’s a village pub that welcomes walkers with its homely ambience and comforting fare.

Walkers can fortify themselves with a selection from the keenly priced lunch menu. Choose from homemade sandwiches loaded generously with fillings such as Butcher’s Roast Ham & Mustard or the intriguing Wroxton Stilton Red Apple and Pickle. Alternatively, the warm ciabattas might tempt with comforting combinations like Smoked Bacon, Brie and Sweet Chilli Jam or a classic Ham and Cheddar Cheese Melt. For a more substantial refuelling, try the Homemade Hearty Steak & Ale Pie: slow-cooked beef with onions and mushrooms in stout gravy encased in light puff pastry. As the day turns into evening, the Shoulder of Mutton continues to cater to the culinary needs of walkers. From a Marinated Minted Lamb Steak on a bed of Colcannon Mash to a Homemade Mango & Ginger Chicken Curry, there’s something to suit all palates. Seafood enthusiasts might opt for the Pan-Roasted Fillet of Fresh Salmon cooked in a rich tomato and garlic white wine sauce. So, if you find yourself exploring the lush landscape of Foxton, remember that the Shoulder of Mutton is there to offer you respite and refreshment.

So why not tie those laces, take in the Foxton heritage trail and whilst there indulge yourself at one of these amazing eateries.