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Ritson's Bar at Wasdale Head Inn: Historic Mountain Pub in the Lake District

Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.

4.5

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.

A brief summary to Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)

  • Wasdale Head Inn, Seascale, Wasdale Head, CA20 1EX, GB
  • +441946726229
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 1 out of 5

Local tips

  • Try the local real ales sourced from Cumbrian breweries for an authentic taste of the region.
  • Visit the beer garden to enjoy unrivalled views of the surrounding fells and the stream behind the inn.
  • Check the seasonal table d’hôte menu in Abraham’s Restaurant for a more formal dining experience.
  • Bring waterproofs and walking boots, or purchase them at the onsite Barn Door Shop before heading out on the fells.
  • Be prepared for limited Wi-Fi and no mobile signal; plan your communications accordingly.
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A Storied Hub for Mountain Enthusiasts

Ritson's Bar is the heart of the Wasdale Head Inn, located in the remote village of Wasdale Head, Cumbria. Named after the inn’s first and most famous landlord, the bar has a rich heritage as a gathering place for climbers and walkers tackling the surrounding fells, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain at 978 meters. The inn’s walls are adorned with climbing memorabilia and images of legendary mountaineers, reflecting its deep connection to the outdoor community.

Atmosphere and Offerings

The bar exudes a warm, welcoming ambiance with a traditional pub feel. It serves up to six rotating real ales, primarily sourced from local Cumbrian breweries, alongside a selection of lagers, wines, gins, vodkas, and single malt whiskies. Food is available all day from noon until 9pm, featuring classic pub favourites such as steak and ale pie, haddock and chips, sandwiches, and jacket potatoes. A children’s menu caters to younger guests, while the adjoining Abraham’s Restaurant offers a seasonal table d’hôte menu with dishes like slow-cooked lamb and butternut squash risotto.

Facilities and Services

Beyond the bar, the Wasdale Head Inn provides a range of accommodations, from bed and breakfast rooms to self-catering options and camping facilities. The inn is dog-friendly, with biscuits and towels for wet paws, and boasts a beer garden with spectacular views of the surrounding fells and a stream. An onsite outdoor gear shop, The Barn Door Shop, supplies walking boots, waterproofs, and guidebooks, making it a one-stop location for fell walkers.

Setting and Surroundings

Situated near the head of Wastwater, the deepest lake in England, the inn enjoys a dramatic landscape of towering mountains and tranquil waters. This setting makes it an ideal base for exploring the Lake District National Park’s rugged terrain, including popular routes to Scafell Pike and other nearby peaks. The natural beauty and peaceful environment contribute to the inn’s enduring appeal.

Connectivity and Practical Information

While the inn offers satellite internet, Wi-Fi can be patchy, and mobile phone reception is generally non-existent due to the remote location. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly. Nearby, Lake Head Car Park provides parking and public toilets, serving as a starting point for many hikes. The area is accessible by shuttle bus during peak seasons, with parking fees supporting conservation efforts.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Ritson's Bar is more than just a pub; it is a cultural landmark within the Lake District, embodying the spirit of mountain adventure and community. It holds a civil wedding licence, hosting intimate ceremonies amid the fells. The inn’s blend of hospitality, history, and connection to England’s highest mountains ensures it remains a cherished destination for visitors seeking both comfort and adventure.

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