Hole in t' Wall: Historic Pub Gem of Bowness-on-Windermere
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
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.
A brief summary to Hole in t' Wall
- Robinson Pl, Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3DH, GB
- +441539443488
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the Lamb Henry or the Ploughman’s lunch for classic, generous pub meals.
- Visit the sunny beer garden for a relaxed drink, especially on warm days.
- Arrive early during weekends to secure a table, as the pub can get busy.
- Enjoy the historic interior details and artefacts that tell the pub’s centuries-old story.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Hole in t' Wall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hole in t' Wall
A Timeless Lakeland Landmark
Hole in t' Wall, originally named the New Hall Inn, has stood in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere since 1612, making it the village's oldest pub. Its nickname derives from a small gap knocked through the brickwork to serve a blacksmith at work, a quaint story that reflects its deep roots in local history. The building retains much of its original character, with exposed beams, historic artefacts adorning the ceilings and walls, and a traditional pub layout that invites visitors to step back in time.Authentic Atmosphere and Warm Hospitality
The pub exudes an inviting, cozy ambiance with a mix of snug interiors and a sunny beer garden equipped with heating for cooler months. The staff are widely praised for their friendliness and genuine warmth, contributing to an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and unpretentious. This is a place where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy good company and traditional hospitality in a setting that has changed little over centuries.Hearty Food and Well-Kept Ales
Hole in t' Wall offers a menu of classic pub dishes known for generous portions and quality ingredients. Signature meals include the Lamb Henry, renowned for tender meat with minted gravy, and the Ploughman’s lunch, celebrated for its variety and size. The pub serves a broad selection of cask ales, including local favorites like Robinsons beers, making it a favored stop for ale enthusiasts. While the menu is concise, it is thoughtfully crafted to deliver satisfying, traditional fare.Rich Cultural Connections and Stories
Beyond its culinary offerings, the pub carries a rich cultural heritage. It has hosted notable figures such as champion wrestler Thomas Longmire and even Charles Dickens, whose visits add to the pub’s storied past. These connections enrich the experience, making the pub not just a place to eat and drink, but a living piece of Lake District history.Community Hub with Versatile Spaces
The Hole in t' Wall serves as a social hub in Bowness, featuring a function room for larger gatherings and a beer garden perfect for sunny days. Its location offers easy access to the stunning surrounding hills and lakes, making it a convenient and charming stop for walkers and tourists exploring the area. The pub balances its historic charm with practical amenities, ensuring comfort and enjoyment for all guests.Enduring Appeal Amidst Modern Changes
Despite some changes in recent years, including evolving food offerings and a shift toward being more of an eatery, the pub retains its core appeal as a quintessential Lakeland pub. Its blend of history, hearty food, well-kept ales, and welcoming atmosphere continues to draw visitors seeking an authentic taste of the Lake District’s pub culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lake District National Park
15.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, charming villages, and endless outdoor adventures.
Levens Hall
15.1 km
Explore the enchanting gardens and rich history of Levens Hall, a stunning landmark in Kendal, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Westmorland County Showground
18.3 km
Discover the essence of the Lake District at Westmorland County Showground, a vibrant hub for local culture, food, and crafts.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
18.9 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Holker Hall & Gardens
20.1 km
Explore the stunning Holker Hall & Gardens, a perfect blend of nature and history, offering visitors a captivating experience in Grange-over-Sands.
Sir John Barrow Monument
20.9 km
Discover the Sir John Barrow Monument: A stunning lookout point with breathtaking views of the Lake District and a rich historical legacy.
Scafell Pike
21.3 km
England's highest peak: a challenging mountain adventure with war memorial significance and spectacular Lake District views.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
21.4 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
Start Of Cumbria Way
21.9 km
Explore the Start of the Cumbria Way, where breathtaking landscapes and serene hiking trails await every adventurer in the heart of Ulverston.
The Westmorland Family
22.2 km
Discover comfort and local flavors at The Westmorland Family, a charming rest stop in Orton, Penrith, perfect for travelers exploring Cumbria.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
22.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Eskdale Mill
22.9 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
23.5 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Aira Force Waterfall
23.5 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
Honister Slate Mine
24.3 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake District
0.5 km
Experience England’s largest lake with vibrant watersports, cultural treasures, and scenic beauty in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
1.8 km
Easily accessible hilltop with breathtaking 360° views of Lake Windermere, perfect for sunset and picnics in the Lake District.
The Lamplighter Dining Rooms
1.9 km
Cozy Victorian inn with British charm, local cuisine, and a prime Windermere location near the Lake District.
National Trust - Claife Viewing Station and Windermere West Shore
2.1 km
Discover panoramic Victorian views of Windermere from a charming lakeside folly with historic coloured glass and a welcoming café.
Blackwell
2.4 km
Explore Blackwell, a stunning Arts & Crafts house near Windermere, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, historic charm, and breathtaking Lake District views.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
2.6 km
A short woodland ascent to stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere and the Lake District’s iconic fells.
National Trust - Windermere and Troutbeck
2.7 km
Historic cottage charm meets stunning Lake District landscapes in Windermere’s tranquil natural setting.
National Trust - Hill Top
3.5 km
Beatrix Potter's beloved farmhouse, frozen in time and filled with the inspiration for her timeless children's tales.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
3.6 km
Step into Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Lake District home, where her stories and inspirations come vividly to life in a timeless 17th-century farmhouse and garden.
The Wild Boar | Bar, Restaurant & Hotel
3.6 km
A luxurious Lake District inn blending rustic charm, gourmet dining, and tranquil woodland escapes near Kendal.
Holehird Gardens
3.8 km
Discover Holehird Gardens, a volunteer-run Lakeland haven with stunning plant collections and breathtaking views over Lake Windermere.
Latterbarrow
4.1 km
A scenic hill near Ambleside offering family-friendly walks and panoramic views across the Lake District’s iconic landscapes.
Zip World Windermere
4.2 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.
Brockhole on Windermere
4.2 km
Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.
Watermill Inn & Brewery
4.6 km
Rustic charm meets craft brewing excellence in this cozy Lake District inn near Kendal and Windermere.
Essential places to dine
The Magic Roundabout
0.1 km
A vibrant café and bar in Bowness-on-Windermere offering diverse British cuisine, inclusive menus, and a lively atmosphere from morning to late night.
The Flying Pig Pub
0.1 km
Experience hearty Lakeland hospitality and classic English fare in the welcoming atmosphere of The Flying Pig Pub, Bowness-on-Windermere.
Porto Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience modern British cuisine with locally sourced flavors in a warm, inviting setting just steps from Lake Windermere.
BAHA Bowness - Bar | Restaurant | Live Music
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Asian BBQ, live music, and nightlife across three lively floors in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lakeview Restaurant at Macdonald Old England Hotel
0.1 km
Modern British fine dining with stunning panoramic views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding fells in a refined lakeside setting.
Lake View Garden Bar - Pub | Food | Live Music
0.2 km
Discover Lake View Garden Bar: A scenic pub offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music by beautiful Windermere.
The Westmorland Inn
0.4 km
Rustic charm and hearty dining just steps from Lake Windermere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Boardwalk Bar and Grill
0.6 km
Relax by Lake Windermere with delicious grilled dishes and panoramic views at Boardwalk Bar and Grill, Bowness-on-Windermere’s lakeside favorite.
Henrock
1.5 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern cuisine with tranquil garden views at Henrock, nestled in the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel near Lake Windermere.
Hooked Seafood
1.6 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
The Ryebeck Hotel
1.7 km
Charming lakeside hotel with quirky style, fine dining, and stunning views over Lake Windermere in the heart of the Lake District.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
1.8 km
A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
1.8 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Brown Horse Inn
3.8 km
A cozy and charming inn near Windermere offering hearty food, comfortable rooms, and a warm Lake District welcome.
The Gaddum
4.2 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tesco Express
0.1 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
0.1 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Love the Lakes Bowness
0.1 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Herdy Bowness
0.1 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Lonsdale Galleries
0.1 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
The Original Man Shop
0.2 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
0.2 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Forget Me Not
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Booths, Windermere
2.0 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Elephant Yard Shopping
11.9 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
12.0 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Waterstones
12.0 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
12.0 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Kendal Indoor market
12.0 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hole in t' Wall
0.0 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Lago
0.0 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Easy Breeze
0.1 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
0.1 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
The Fizzy Tarté
0.1 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Village Inn Bowness-On-Windermere
0.1 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty British fare, live sports, and a spacious beer garden.
The Arts Bar
0.2 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
0.4 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
Quayside Bowness
0.6 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Boaters Bar
0.7 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
1.9 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
1.9 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
1.9 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
The Windermere Speakeasy
2.0 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
0.6 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
1.4 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lounge C9
34.3 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
34.3 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
34.3 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The loose moose
35.0 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
42.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
58.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Deja Vu 60's 70's 80's Bar
58.5 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of the 60's, 70's, and 80's at Deja Vu Bar in Carlisle, where classic music and a lively atmosphere await.
Club Britannia
58.8 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
59.0 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
59.1 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Peek A Booze
60.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
Funny Girls
61.0 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Sanuk Nightclub
61.1 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
