The Best Pubs In The Lake District

Last Updated on 8th May 2026

The Lake District is home to some of the best ales and best pubs across the the UK.

As well as breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and endless walking trails, few things beat a post-hike pint or a hearty meal at a traditional pub.

There are many great public houses nestled throughout the fells and towns – each with its own character, stories, and a promise of a friendly welcome and a drink. Here’s my guide to the best pubs in the Lake District, perfect for when you want to drink beer, sample some local ales, and soak up true Cumbrian hospitality.

The Dog & Gun, Keswick

Hearty Eats and Legendary Ales

This is one of the best pubs in the Lakes for me. Keswick is bursting with great drinking spots, but The Dog & Gun remains a local favourite. Popular with both locals and visitors, it’s particularly well-known for its delicious Hungarian goulash – a welcome twist on traditional pub fare. The pub offers a good range of local real ales, classic Cumbrian hospitality, and – true to its name – a welcoming attitude towards muddy boots and wet dogs.

The Kirkstile Inn, Loweswater

Traditional Charm in Every Corner

If you’re searching for that quintessential country pub, look no further. The Kirkstile Inn dates back to the 16th century and is loved for its low-beamed ceilings, warming fires, and famous Loweswater Gold ale. After a circular walk around Crummock Water, nothing beats ending your journey here to enjoy home-cooked specials and an inviting beer garden with far-reaching views of Melbreak fell.

The Wainwright Inn, Chapel Stile

Great Food, Roaring Fire, Dogs & Ales

Just along the riverside path from the Britannia Inn below, the Wainwright Inn combines dog-friendliness with great food, great ales, quiz nights and a roaring fire to warm you up after a day on the fells. For it’s fairly remote location, you can be assured it will be busy regardless of what day you pass through the doors.

The Britannia Inn, Elterwater

Perfectly Placed in the Heart of the Lakes

In the lovely village of Elterwater, you’ll find The Britannia Inn. This welcoming pub is a superb spot to sample some local ales after a day exploring Langdale or the surrounding fells. The interior oozes Lakeland charm, with slate floors and crackling open fires, while the outdoor seating is a delight when the sun’s out. The food menu showcases the best of local produce, with an emphasis on seasonal, satisfying dishes.

The Woolpack Inn, Eskdale

Gateway to the Western Fells

I’ve had several great evenings in here. With a campsite next door, a YHA down the road, a pool table and great ale & cocktail list, this is a brilliant pub. Remote and rugged, the Eskdale valley is a paradise for explorers – and The Woolpack is its undisputed social hub. It’s a favourite haunt for those tackling Scafell Pike or enjoying the dramatic scenery. There’s a fantastic selection of regional ales and ciders, hearty pub classics, and views across the valley. On chilly afternoons, the roaring fire and friendly welcome make it the perfect place to relax and refuel.

The Drunken Duck Inn, Ambleside

A Legendary Lakeland Retreat

Hidden away and not the easiest to walk to, but no list of the best Lake District pubs is complete without mentioning The Drunken Duck Inn. Perched on a hilltop with spectacular views over the surrounding fells, it’s become a pilgrimage stop for walkers and foodies alike. Expect a rotating range of well-kept real ales, many brewed on-site at Barngates Brewery. The stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, log fires, and locally sourced menu make it a standout for anyone wanting more than just a quick pint.

The Golden Rule, Ambleside

A Genuine Westmorland Gem

Tucked off the main street in Ambleside, The Golden Rule is a traditional pub that feels like a secret locals would perhaps rather keep to themselves. This unpretentious spot is famed for its excellent cask ales, traditional atmosphere and welcoming staff. With a beer garden in summer and snug corners in winter, it’s the ideal place to drink beer and chat with fellow wanderers.

The Masons Arms, Cartmel Fell

Cosy and Quintessentially Cumbrian

High above the Winster Valley, The Masons Arms perfectly blends classic pub comfort with spectacular countryside views. Cosy interiors, local ales on tap, and an inventive gastropub menu packed with Cumbrian produce make this an excellent choice for walkers and food lovers alike. Enjoy a pint on the terrace as the sun sets over the fells – it’s pure Lake District magic.

The Queen’s Head, Troutbeck

A Timeless Village Favourite

After its recent restoration, The Queen’s Head in Troutbeck now stands as one of the best pubs in the Lake District. With centuries-old beams and a roaring fireplace, this is the place to unwind after a day on the trails. Its range of local ales, excellent Sunday roasts, and warm service make it a must-visit, especially if you’re exploring the eastern side of Windermere.

The Bridge Hotel, Buttermere

Lakeside Ale and Stunning Scenery

If your walk ends at Buttermere, you’re in for a treat. The Bridge Hotel’s riverside beer garden offers breathtaking views across the lake and nearby peaks—a unique setting to sample some local ales or sip a G&T. The pub is walker-friendly and dog-friendly, with local dishes that’ll satisfy the hungriest adventurer.

Tips for Enjoying the Lake District Pub Scene

• Walk first, drink later: With so many great public houses on popular walking routes, plan your hikes around a well-earned post-walk drink!
• Try local ales: Many of the best Lake District pubs are proud to serve brews from local breweries—be adventurous and taste something new.
• Book ahead in peak season: Popular spots (especially those serving food) can fill up quickly during weekends and school holidays.
• Bring the dog: Many pubs in the Lake District are happy to welcome four-legged explorers, especially after a rambunctious ramble.

Conclusion: Raise a Glass to Lakeland Tradition

The Lake District’s pub scene is a huge part of what makes this part of Britain so special. From fellside flagstones to riverside retreats, the best pubs in the Lake District promise not just great food and drink, but a slice of local life rich in stories and friendliness. Whether you want to sample some local ales in a centuries-old inn or simply drink beer in a sunny garden, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. Next time you’re in the Lakes, don’t just walk the fells—step inside a pub or two and toast to the timeless charm of this remarkable corner of the UK.