Pub lunches are part of many people’s Lake District experience; and that’s because there’s simply no better way to refuel after a busy day up the fells than with a hearty plate of food! Luckily, there’s no shortage of spots to sample, but we’ve chosen our top 10 to give you a taste of what’s on offer.
1. The Bridge Inn, Buttermere
Whether you’ve enjoyed a lovely long loop around Buttermere, or if you’ve braved High Stile or Red Pike, you’ll be in the right place to make a pitstop at The Bridge Inn. Located in Buttermere village, this charming inn will be a welcome sight after your outdoor adventures. The main bar is a warm, cosy setting, and it has a dedicated dog-friendly area called the Walkers Bar. Quench your thirst and tuck into something tasty, there’s plenty of Cumbrian ales and traditional bar meals to choose from, and there’s options for kids too. The menu makes use of lots of local produce, with some coming from as close as Buttermere itself!
You don’t need to have a booking, the friendly team will help you to find a table as soon as one is available – it’s a popular spot, so it can be busy at times!
Post code: CA13 9UZ
2. The Old Crown, Hesket Newmarket
Located in Hesket Newmarket, The Old Crown is owned by a co-operative of over 100 local people and other supporters, giving this quaint pub a real community feel! It’s actually thought to be the first ever co-operatively owned pub in the UK, and there’s always a buzz inside – whether you call in for a bite to eat after a hike up Binsey Fell, or if you’re lucky enough to stop by on quiz night, you’re certain to feel at home here. Ale enthusiasts will be catered to here; there’s an array to choose from, and they are all brewed by the Hesket Newmarket Brewery, which is located behind the pub itself.
Try the fragrant salmon fillet, savour a steak and Hesket ale pie, or load up on carbohydrates with cannelloni and garlic bread – there’s so much to choose from, and we’re confident that this menu will satisfy even the hungriest of hikers!
Post code: CA7 8JG
3. The Dog & Gun, Keswick
You’re in the prime location for stopping off at The Dog & Gun once you’ve reached the peak of Blencathra, Latrigg, or Cat Bells, as this bustling spot is situated in the heart of Keswick. Here, you’ll find some classic pub lunch staples, accompanied by a few wild card additions – in fact, the speciality is the homemade Hungarian Goulash! No shallow or deep fried food is on the menu at the Dog & Gun, so you can enjoy a hearty feast that doesn’t come with the usual sluggish aftermath!
Given that this one is located in Keswick, it can get extremely crowded, especially on weekend afternoons! If you’re quick, grab a table and enjoy the atmosphere here, as it’s one of the most popular on the list. It’s another dog-friendly option, too – bonus!
Post code: CA12 5BT
4. Travellers Rest, Grasmere
Looking for a real traditional Cumbrian Inn? Relax in a cosy pub setting at the Travellers Rest, located on the outskirts of Grasmere. The quirky, old world charm and a warm, relaxed environment make this one of our favourites on the list, and it’s within easy reach of peaks such as Loughrigg Fell, Tarn Crag, and High Street to name just a few. If you’re calling by on a chilly winter’s afternoon, try to find a table where you can warm up beside one of the brilliant log burning fireplaces.
Our top picks from the menu here include some signature pub specials – beer battered fish and chips, and the 8oz venison burger would be our go-to main, but don’t forget about the puddings! A dessert will taste even better after you’ve ticked another Wainwright off your list – we’d suggest trying the sticky toffee pudding!
Post code: LA22 9RR
5. The Crown Inn, Pooley Bridge
Pooley Bridge is on many people’s itineraries when visiting the Lake District, and it’s within reach of so many great paddle-boarding spots including lake Ullswater. Get wrapped up, and head over to The Crown Inn after your morning on the lake, and take a pick from the impressive, locally sourced dishes on the menu here. Want to go all out? Add a starter and make the most of your pub lunch, we’d opt for the garlic mushrooms or nachos! For your main course, be tempted by pork belly or braised beef.
Savour your flavoursome, fresh, tasty lunch, and look out onto stunning views of the River Eamont. All areas of the bar are dog-friendly too, and we’re sure your four legged friends will sniff out some treats and a bowl of water. You can book a table in advance here, making it easy to plan the perfect day out in the Lake District.
Post code: CA10 2NP
Get cosy after a wholesome day spent in the Lake District
After you’ve explored and enjoyed a tasty pub lunch, head back to your cosy stay with us at Snittlegarth, and make the most of having a home-from-home in the Lake District.
Our lodges, log cabins, and gorgeous shepherd’s hut will be the perfect base for you during your stay, where you can explore the local area and of course, sample a meal from some of these excellent Cumbrian pubs! If you need any specific recommendations for your stay, simply contact us and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction. Find availability for our accommodation options online, and plan your next staycation today.
