Traditional inns, walkers' bars and Sunday roasts
Pubs of the Lake District
A good Lake District pub can be the centrepiece of the day: a fireside pint after a fell walk, a Sunday roast in a village inn, or a beer garden with views of the fells.
classic bars near popular routes
roasts, gastropubs and local menus
welcoming stops for muddy paws
stay over at historic inns
A Visitor's Guide to Lake District Pubs
- Local Ales are a Must-Try: The Lake District has a thriving craft beer scene. Ask the bar staff for their recommendation of a local Cumbrian ale—breweries like Jennings, Coniston Brewing Co., and Hawkshead Brewery are classics.
- Sunday Roasts are an Institution: If you're here on a Sunday, a traditional pub roast is essential. It's best to book a table, especially in popular pubs, to avoid disappointment.
- Check Food Serving Times: Many pubs, particularly in more rural areas, only serve food at specific times (e.g., 12-2pm and 6-9pm). It's always wise to check their website or call in advance.
- Dog-Friendly but with Rules: While many pubs welcome dogs with open arms, it's often only in the bar area (the "snug"), not the main restaurant. Always check the policy if you plan to dine with your four-legged friend.
- Mind the Roads: Some of the most rewarding pubs are down narrow country lanes. Be prepared for single-track roads and allow extra time for your journey.
Our Favourite Pubs
The Old Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale
An iconic climbers' pub with an atmosphere steeped in history. Its stone floors, open fire, and stunning views of the Langdale Pikes make it the perfect place to refuel after a long hike.
Great Langdale, Ambleside, LA22 9JY
The Drunken Duck, Ambleside
A sought-after gastropub experience. Famous for its own-brewed ales from the Barngates Brewery and an award-winning menu. It’s a special occasion spot that requires booking well in advance.
Barngates, Ambleside, LA22 0NG
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale
Nestled in a dramatic and remote valley, this famous inn is known as the birthplace of British climbing. A must-visit for its history, hearty food, and sense of true wilderness.
Wasdale Head, Seascale, CA20 1EX
The Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater
A charming 16th-century inn with a beautiful beer garden, its own brewery (Cumbrian Legendary Ales), and fantastic food in a peaceful, less-visited corner of the Lakes.
Loweswater, Cockermouth, CA13 0RU
Choose a Pub by Area
The best pub choice often depends on where you are walking, staying or driving that day. These areas are reliable starting points.
Ambleside & Langdale
Great for walkers, classic inns, real ale and post-fell meals after routes around the Langdale Pikes, Loughrigg and Rydal.
Keswick & Borrowdale
Good for town-centre choice, dog-friendly bars, wet-weather lunches and easy access after Derwentwater walks.
Coniston & Hawkshead
A strong area for traditional pubs, lake days, village wandering and relaxed food after gentler walking.
Ullswater & the Western Valleys
Best for quieter inns, dramatic scenery, walkers' pubs and memorable rural settings away from the busiest towns.
What Kind of Pub Day Do You Want?
Cosy & Traditional
Look for old coaching inns, walkers' bars, slate floors, open fires and simple local food.
Food-Led
Book ahead for gastropubs and Sunday roasts, especially around Ambleside, Cartmel, Windermere and Keswick.
Views & Beer Gardens
On dry days, choose rural inns near lakes, valleys and fell roads where the setting is part of the reward.
Best Pubs for Walkers
These pubs are perfectly placed for a post-hike pint and meal.
-
The Sticklebarn, Great Langdale
National Trust owned, at the foot of the Langdale Pikes.
-
The Old Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale
The classic walkers' bar, virtually unchanged for decades.
-
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale
Essential stop after conquering Scafell Pike.
-
The Britannia Inn, Elterwater
Ideal for many low-level valley walks.
-
The Coledale Inn, Braithwaite
Perfectly positioned for tackling the Coledale Horseshoe.
Please note: This is just a selection. We always recommend checking with the pub directly for the most up-to-date information.
Top Dog-Friendly Pubs
Welcome for walkers with two legs or four.
-
The Royal Oak, Grasmere
A welcoming spot in a bustling village.
-
The Dog & Gun, Keswick
Famously dog-friendly with Goulash on the menu.
-
The Britannia Inn, Coniston
A traditional pub that loves canine visitors.
-
The Boot Inn, Eskdale
Water bowls and treats are always on hand.
-
The Sticklebarn, Langdale
Dogs are welcome inside and out.
Please note: This is just a selection. We always recommend checking with the pub directly for the most up-to-date information.
Pubs with Rooms
Why go home? Stay the night at one of these fantastic inns.
-
The Drunken Duck, Ambleside
Luxurious rooms for a foodie getaway.
-
The Wasdale Head Inn, Wasdale
Stay in a piece of mountaineering history.
-
The King's Head, Thirlmere
Cosy rooms and a classic pub atmosphere.
-
The Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite
An elegant inn with riverside rooms.
Please note: This is just a selection. We always recommend checking with the pub directly for the most up-to-date information.
Best for Sunday Roasts
The perfect end to a Lakeland week. Booking is highly recommended.
-
The Horse and Farrier, Threlkeld
Famous for generous portions and local meat.
-
The Masons Arms, Cartmel Fell
Stunning views and an unforgettable roast.
-
The Drunken Duck, Ambleside
A high-end roast worth the splurge.
-
The Britannia Inn, Coniston
A hearty, traditional Sunday lunch.
Please note: This is just a selection. We always recommend checking with the pub directly for the most up-to-date information.
Plan the Rest of Your Day
A Lake District pub works best as part of a wider day out. Pair your meal or pint with a walk, lake, village or simple trip plan.
Walks Near Great Pubs
Find fell walks, lakeside routes and gentler trails that pair well with a proper pub stop.
View walksTowns & Villages
Explore Ambleside, Keswick, Grasmere, Coniston and other good bases for food, pubs and short walks.
View townsLakes to Visit
Choose a lake for the day, then build in a village pub, lakeshore path or boat trip nearby.
View lakesPlan Your Visit
Get practical help with where to stay, when to go, getting around and making the most of your time.
View trip plannerLooking for More Lake District Ideas?
If you are still choosing what to do, browse the wider guide for attractions, boat trips, rainy day ideas and scenic places to visit.