The Lake District is the UK's most popular national park and it's not hard to see why. With craggy hilltops, rolling fells, and vast lakes this is an outdoor enthusiast's ideal landscape. Whether you are here to hike, bike, climb or sail — choosing to stay in one of the area's many pubs offers an atmospheric and authentic base. Our hotel experts have compiled a collection of the best pubs with rooms in the Lake District selected on their location, character, food (and ales). Whether you like your pub to be more of the gastropub variety or you prefer something a little more traditional, there is something for most tastes and budgets here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next break in the great outdoors?
For a traditional stay
- The Queen’s Head is a traditional country inn just outside Windermere. The atmosphere is smart but relaxed and the decor includes both original features and modern craftsmanship. There are twelve stylish bedrooms and the food is generously portioned. A cosy stay.
- The Hare and Hounds is a historic and homely 16th-century country inn. Rooms are individually designed with lots of character. The beds are king-size and very comfortable. The restaurant is superb and the bar has a cosy fireplace and atmosphere. The wide range of cask ales on offer makes this an unforgettable Cumbrian inn.
- The Queen's Head Askham is a snug, beamed 17th-century village pub with a smart but understated contemporary country feel that still retains its atmosphere. You'll find big comfortable bedrooms with occasional antiques and confident, robust cooking using ingredients from the local Lowther estates.
For walkers
- Eltermere Inn's name is a bit misleading, as this is a small relaxed, 18th-century country house (originally a farmhouse) that’s been given a careful, contemporary update. Menus comprise delicious, unfussy, homecooked meals. Set close to the mighty fells of Langdale — this is perfect walking country.
- The Crown Inn at Pooley Bridge is a 17th-century coaching inn situated in a charming village by Ullswater Lake. Expect a friendly atmosphere and a large beer garden with gorgeous views. Smart rooms are cosy and comfortable. An easygoing base surrounded by superb walking country.
- The Kirkstile Inn is a charming Lake District inn set in a quiet village with walking and cycling opportunities aplenty. Cottagey rooms are simple and traditional and most offer lovely views. The pub is a popular spot with a selection of good ales and elevated pub fare — ideal to return to after a day outdoors.
- If you’re into hill walking you might already have heard of the Wasdale Head Inn, spectacularly located just below Scafell Pike. The views are stunning, and the hearty pub fare is good, but the offerings in the wood-panelled dining room are better. There are twelve simple, comfortable rooms.
For foodies
- The Pheasant Inn is an old remote coaching inn with an acclaimed bistro that uses locally sourced produce. Friendly and welcoming with well-kept gardens and a cosy lounge with a fireplace. Enjoy country walks and fishing in the nearby Lake Bassenthwaite.
- Another good option for foodies is the Drunken Duck Inn. Set in the pretty village of Ambleside and surrounded by the Southern Lowland Fells the position is a real lure. Built-in the 18th-century, this is one of the Lake District’s best-known gastro pubs.
For couples
- The Punch Bowl Inn is a quaint 18th-century inn with sweeping valley views. Interiors have been well-renovated keeping the building's original features but feeling fresh and luxurious; the best have his and hers tubs for romantic evenings. With a popular restaurant and bar, this is the complete package.
For families
- Awash with traditional charm, The Masons Arms is a delightful hotel in the Lake District. Featuring excellent food in the restaurant, a wide range of ales and comfortable rooms. The pub's cottages which sleep up to six, make it a great option for families or groups.
For great value
- The Royal Oak is right in the heart of Keswick. Its fourteen rooms are smart, and there's an excellent restaurant and atmospheric bar.
Still not sure where to book?
