The Kings Head: Carlisle’s Historic Real Ale Haven
Historic 17th-century pub in Carlisle’s heart, famed for award-winning real ales, hearty British fare, and a lively courtyard with live music.
Nestled in the heart of Carlisle’s historic town centre on Fisher Street, The Kings Head is one of the city’s oldest pubs, with origins dating back to the 10th century. Known for its award-winning real ales, welcoming atmosphere, and hearty British pub fare served daily until mid-afternoon, it offers a quintessential local experience. The seventeenth-century building features traditional wooden floors and cosy seating, complemented by a large outdoor courtyard with live music and a big-screen TV.
A brief summary to The Kings Head
- 31 Fisher St, Carlisle, CA3 8RF, GB
- Click to display
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
- Thursday 10 am-11 pm
- Friday 10 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the Yates Bitter, a local real ale that’s always on tap alongside rotating guest beers.
- Visit for lunch to enjoy hearty British classics like steak pie and fish & chips served until 3 pm.
- Enjoy the covered outdoor courtyard, perfect for live music and watching big-screen sports.
- The pub welcomes dogs in non-carpeted areas, making it a great stop for pet owners.
- Note that The Kings Head is an adult-focused venue and does not allow children.
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services from Carlisle Bus Station to the city centre take approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing around £2-£3. The stop near Fisher Street is within a short walking distance of The Kings Head.
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Train
Carlisle Railway Station is about 1.5 km from The Kings Head. A taxi ride takes 5-10 minutes costing approximately £5-£8. Alternatively, a 20-minute walk through the city centre leads you directly to Fisher Street.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Carlisle city centre. A short trip from main transport hubs to The Kings Head costs around £5-£8, with travel times varying from 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to The Kings Head is ideal. The pedestrianised Fisher Street is accessible with flat terrain, and the walk from Carlisle Castle or Cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Outdoor Seating
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Information Boards
The Kings Head location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Kings Head
A Timeless Landmark in Carlisle’s Historic Core
The Kings Head stands proudly in Carlisle’s medieval quarter, just behind the Town Hall and adjacent to the Guildhall. The site’s history as a hostelry stretches back over a millennium, reputedly offering ale since the 10th century. The current building, dating from the 17th century, preserves a traditional charm with its wooden floors, exposed beams, and a warm, inviting interior that reflects centuries of local heritage.A Celebrated Pub for Real Ale Enthusiasts
Renowned for its real ale selection, The Kings Head is a multiple-time winner of the City Pub of the Year award from Solway CAMRA. It consistently features Yates Bitter from nearby Westnewton alongside a rotating lineup of guest ales from across the UK, served from four handpumps. The pub’s commitment to quality cask ales has earned it a place in the Good Beer Guide for nine consecutive years, making it a must-visit for beer connoisseurs.Atmosphere and Amenities that Blend Tradition with Comfort
Inside, the pub offers a mix of seating including high tables near the entrance, long communal tables along the walls, and a raised carpeted area with banquettes for a cozier experience. Pictures of old Carlisle adorn the walls, adding to the sense of place. Outside, a large covered courtyard provides a lively setting with a big-screen TV and regular live music, making it a vibrant social hub.Hearty British Fare and Welcoming Service
The Kings Head serves freshly prepared British pub food from opening until 3 pm Monday through Saturday. Popular dishes include classic steak pie, fish and chips, and burgers, all praised for their quality and value. The pub welcomes dogs in the non-carpeted areas and maintains a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, although it is not child-friendly, catering primarily to adults seeking a relaxed yet lively environment.Location and Nearby Attractions
Situated centrally on Fisher Street, The Kings Head is conveniently close to Carlisle Castle, Carlisle Cathedral, and The Lanes shopping centre. This prime location makes it an ideal spot for visitors to rest and refresh after exploring the city’s historic and cultural sites. The pedestrianised street adds to the relaxed vibe, away from busy traffic.Legacy and Local Significance
More than just a pub, The Kings Head embodies Carlisle’s rich history and community spirit. Its long-standing reputation for excellent ales and hearty food, combined with its historic setting, makes it a cherished institution in the city. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it offers an authentic taste of Carlisle’s past and present.Explore the best of what The Kings Head has to offer
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