Best Bars in Lake District National Park
Hungry in Lake District National Park? Explore top-rated bars with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best bars in Lake District National Park
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
32 bars
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Bar4.2★3,032 reviews
Quayside Bowness
Quayside Bowness is a lively, family- and dog-friendly bar and kitchen located on Glebe Road in Bowness-on-Windermere. Offering stunning views over Lake Windermere, it features three floors of entertainment including a bar, kitchen, cellar bar, and nightclub. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, live sports events, and lake view dining, Quayside is a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking good food, drinks, and a vibrant social scene.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Pub4.4★2,603 reviews
The Albert
Situated in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, The Albert is a bustling, traditional pub owned by Robinsons Brewery. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, it offers a wide selection of local ales, seasonal food menus, and cozy indoor and outdoor spaces, including a log fire in winter. Popular for Sunday roasts and live music, it’s a favored spot for locals and visitors exploring the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.6★2,335 reviews
Hole in t' Wall
Hole in t' Wall is the oldest pub in Bowness-on-Windermere, dating back to 1612. This charming traditional Lakeland inn offers a cozy atmosphere, hearty pub grub, and a wide range of well-kept cask ales. Known for its rich heritage, original features, and friendly staff, it is a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking authentic Lake District hospitality in a relaxed setting with indoor and outdoor seating.
Daily 12:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bar4.6★2,281 reviews
The Crafty Baa Windermere
Located at 21 Victoria Street in Windermere, The Crafty Baa is a vibrant bar, café, and tapas spot renowned for its eclectic décor, lively atmosphere, and extensive selection of ales, ciders, and wines. This moderately priced venue offers a unique experience with quirky interiors, a welcoming vibe, and a menu featuring sharing platters and pub snacks, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a distinctive social setting in the Lake District.
Daily 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.7★2,062 reviews
Queens Head, Troutbeck
Nestled in the scenic Troutbeck Valley near Windermere, The Queens Head is a charming historic pub and inn offering hearty British fare, local ales, and comfortable en-suite rooms. Popular with walkers and cyclists, it features cosy interiors, a welcoming beer garden, and splendid views of surrounding hills. This gastropub blends traditional character with modern comforts, making it an ideal base for exploring the Lake District’s natural beauty.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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British4.5★2,024 reviews
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
Nestled in the picturesque town of Windermere, The Tilly Bar and Kitchen offers a delightful blend of traditional British cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're stopping by for a casual meal, a refreshing drink, or a cozy afternoon tea, this venue is a must-visit for tourists seeking to experience local flavors and hospitality.
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Pub4.2★2,425 reviews
The Flying Pig Pub
The Flying Pig Pub in Bowness-on-Windermere is a traditional Lakeland pub known for its hearty English fare, welcoming atmosphere, and locally sourced seasonal dishes. Popular for its Cumberland sausage sandwich and reputedly the best chips in the Lakes, it offers a cozy setting with friendly service, ideal for casual dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Restaurant4.3★1,817 reviews
The Magic Roundabout
Nestled in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, The Magic Roundabout is a charming restaurant and bar that offers a delightful array of dishes, from hearty breakfasts to savory grilled specialties. Its vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for both casual dining and social gatherings.
Daily 8:30–23:00
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Pub3.8★2,187 reviews
The Dog Beck
The Dog Beck is a lively Wetherspoon pub located in the heart of Penrith, Cumbria. Housed in an early 19th-century grade II listed building, it offers a wide range of affordable drinks and meals from early morning until late at night. Known for its spacious interiors, step-free access, and family-friendly atmosphere, The Dog Beck blends historic charm with modern convenience, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.2★1,678 reviews
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
The Village Inn in Bowness-on-Windermere is a welcoming traditional pub and restaurant set on Lake Road, offering a cozy atmosphere with local ales, hearty British cuisine, and a spacious beer garden. Popular with both locals and visitors, it features live sports broadcasts, live music events, and is dog- and family-friendly, making it a vibrant social hub in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Wainwrights' Inn
Nestled in the village of Chapel Stile near Ambleside, Wainwrights' Inn is a beloved traditional Lakeland pub offering hearty local cuisine, a fine selection of ales, and a welcoming atmosphere. With a rich history as a farmhouse and petrol station, it serves as a cozy retreat for walkers and locals alike, featuring a large outdoor area and a roaring fireplace.
Daily 12:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
Nestled in Bowness-on-Windermere, the Lake View Garden Bar offers a vibrant pub experience with stunning vistas over Lake Windermere. This lively venue features indoor and outdoor seating, a varied menu including vegetarian and vegan options, and regular live music performances. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it is a popular spot for families, couples, and groups seeking good drinks, hearty food, and lakeside ambiance.
Mon–Fri 12:00–23:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
Nestled along the scenic shores of Windermere, Boardwalk Bar and Grill offers an inviting atmosphere combined with a delectable menu. Tourists can indulge in a variety of grilled dishes while enjoying stunning views of the lake, making it a perfect stop for relaxation and enjoyment.
Daily 12:00–22:00
Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
Nestled in the scenic town of Cockermouth, the Brewers Fayre offers a cozy and inviting family-friendly atmosphere. This dining establishment is perfect for tourists looking to enjoy a hearty meal while soaking in the local charm. With a diverse menu featuring British classics and an emphasis on breakfast offerings, it's an ideal spot to fuel your day of exploration.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
Nestled in the scenic Barngates area near Ambleside, the Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery offers a quintessential Lake District experience with hearty cuisine, expertly brewed ales on site, and a warm, convivial atmosphere. This country inn combines rustic charm with modern comforts, making it a beloved destination for food lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
Nestled in the picturesque Bowness-on-Windermere, BAHA Bowness offers a vibrant atmosphere with delicious food, lively music, and a diverse drink selection. This restaurant combines the charm of a local pub with the excitement of live entertainment, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking a unique dining experience.
The Brown Horse Inn
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Windermere, The Brown Horse Inn is a charming restaurant and pub that offers a delightful culinary experience, making it an ideal spot for tourists looking to unwind and savor local flavors. With its inviting atmosphere and rustic decor, visitors can enjoy a range of traditional British dishes and a selection of fine ales in a cozy setting that captures the essence of the Lake District.
Boaters Bar
Boaters Bar, situated on the shores of Lake Windermere in Bowness-on-Windermere, is the Lake District’s premier bar and live entertainment venue. Since opening in 2019, it has become a vibrant destination offering stunning lake views, a wide selection of craft beers, family-friendly games, and regular live music and comedy events. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for locals, tourists, families, and dog owners alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Fizzy Tarté
Located on Ash Street in Bowness-on-Windermere, The Fizzy Tarté is a vibrant cocktail bar and café known for its stylish décor, expertly crafted cocktails, and popular afternoon tea service. It offers a lively atmosphere with a menu featuring pâtisserie treats, savoury dishes, and a selection of champagne and fizz. The venue is praised for its friendly staff and inviting ambiance, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed experience.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
Nestled in the picturesque Lyth Valley, The Punch Bowl Inn is a delightful restaurant and inn that offers a unique blend of fine dining, cozy accommodations, and a charming atmosphere. Ideal for tourists seeking a taste of local cuisine and hospitality, this establishment is a must-visit.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
The Boathouse is a stylish gastropub and bar located at Windermere Marina Village in Bowness-on-Windermere. It offers a modern dining experience with a menu blending British classics and European favorites, complemented by scenic views of Windermere Lake and marina. Open daily with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, it is perfect for enjoying quality food and drinks while soaking in the picturesque lakeside setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Arts Bar
Nestled on Brantfell Road in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, The Arts Bar offers a unique blend of creative cocktails, seasonal locally sourced food, and a quirky, characterful atmosphere. Housed in a building once linked to the Arts & Crafts movement, it combines artistic heritage with a warm, inviting ambiance perfect for casual dining and social drinks.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Lily Bar
The Lily Bar is a vibrant independent bar and restaurant located on Lake Road in Ambleside, at the heart of the Lake District. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it offers a diverse menu featuring quality local ales, cocktails, and well-prepared food including steak and pasta dishes. The venue hosts live music and comedy nights regularly, making it a lively social hub for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Easy Breeze
The Easy Breeze is a lively bar and restaurant located on Church Street in Bowness-on-Windermere. Known for its trendy atmosphere, live music, and friendly service, it offers a diverse menu featuring street food, hearty mains, and creative cocktails. The venue combines rustic Lakeland charm with stylish interiors, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking great food, drinks, and entertainment in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Lake View Bowness
The Lake View Bowness is a popular pub located on Glebe Road in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering a welcoming atmosphere with spectacular views over Lake Windermere. Known for its friendly staff, spacious interior, and a varied menu, it is a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed drink or meal by the lake. Open daily from noon, it combines traditional pub charm with scenic beauty in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Talbot Bar
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, The Talbot Bar offers a welcoming pub experience with traditional Lakeland comfort food, a cozy atmosphere, and a fine selection of local ales and spirits. Located within the Skelwith Bridge Hotel near Ambleside, this bar is known for its hearty meals, friendly service, and dog-friendly environment, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors exploring the region.
Daily 12:00–22:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Windermere Speakeasy
Nestled at 4 High Street in Windermere, The Windermere Speakeasy is a charming cocktail bar known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks. This versatile venue doubles as a brunch and lunch restaurant, coffee and tea house, and wine bar, offering a diverse menu and a relaxed vibe. With its friendly staff, creative cocktails, and sharing platters, it’s a perfect spot for casual gatherings or intimate evenings in the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Whistling Pig
Nestled in the charming village of Staveley near Kendal, The Whistling Pig is a popular, inexpensive pub known for its warm atmosphere, generous portions, and locally sourced hearty meals. This family-friendly spot delights visitors with its relaxed vibe, attentive service, and standout Sunday roasts, making it a beloved destination for both locals and travelers exploring the Lake District.
Price level $Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
Ritson's Bar, part of the Wasdale Head Inn in Cumbria, England, is a renowned mountain pub beloved by walkers and climbers. Nestled at the foot of Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, it offers a cozy atmosphere with real ales, hearty pub food, and stunning fell views. The inn also features a formal dining room, accommodation, and an outdoor gear shop, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lago
Lago is a vibrant bar located at 10 St Martin's Parade in Bowness-on-Windermere, offering a lively atmosphere with well-crafted cocktails and sharing platters. Popular among locals and visitors alike, it provides a cozy spot to unwind near the heart of Windermere. With a strong reputation for quality drinks and friendly service, Lago is a favored destination for evening socializing in the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
Nestled in the heart of Windermere, The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, known as The Pie and Pint, offers a cozy and quirky atmosphere with a delightful selection of real ales and homemade pies. This intimate bar is famous for its charming small size, quality local beers, and a welcoming vibe that invites visitors to relax and savor authentic Lake District hospitality.
Daily 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Lake District Cocktail Co.
Discover the unique charm of Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile cocktail catering service perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and adventurous tourists alike. Experience expertly crafted drinks amidst the stunning backdrop of the Lake District.
Mon–Fri 19:00–23:00 · Sat–Sun 12:00–23:00
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Lake District National Park in England combines glacial lakes, mountain trails, literary heritage, stone villages and outdoor adventures across Cumbria.
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