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.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn) location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mirehouse & Gardens
20.1 km
Explore Mirehouse & Gardens: A tranquil escape in the Lake District, blending beautiful gardens, rich history, and breathtaking views of nature.
National Trust - Wray
20.3 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
Latterbarrow
20.5 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve
20.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve in the heart of the Lake District.
Grizedale
20.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and artistic wonders of Grizedale Forest, a national park filled with adventure and serenity in the Lake District.
Brockhole on Windermere
21.7 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve
22.2 km
Experience the serene landscapes and rich wildlife of Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
22.5 km
Discover the charming Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's historic home, where nature and imagination intertwine in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Hill Top
22.6 km
Explore Hill Top, the historic home of Beatrix Potter, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world that inspired her timeless stories.
National Trust - Wordsworth House and Garden
22.9 km
Experience the literary legacy of William Wordsworth at his childhood home, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Cockermouth.
National Trust - Townend
22.9 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Duke Pit Fan House
23.5 km
Explore the Duke Pit Fan House, a historical landmark in Whitehaven, revealing the rich industrial heritage of Cumbria's coal mining era.
Holehird Gardens
23.8 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
23.8 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
23.9 km
Discover Queen Adelaide's Hill, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Lake District, offering stunning vistas of Windermere and lush landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ritson's Force
0.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Ritson's Force, a charming waterfall nestled among England’s highest peaks in the Lake District.
Scafell Pike
3.3 km
Explore Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking opportunities in the heart of the Lake District.
Honister Slate Mine
6.1 km
Explore England’s last working slate mine with thrilling adventures and rich heritage amid stunning Lake District landscapes.
Eskdale
6.2 km
Discover Eskdale, a breathtaking Lake District valley of towering peaks, historic trails, and serene natural beauty in Cumbria, England.
Eskdale Mill
7.7 km
Step back in time at Eskdale Mill, the Lake District’s last working water-powered corn mill with historic machinery and scenic riverside charm.
Bird How
7.9 km
A remote, rustic Lake District cottage offering peaceful off-grid retreat and prime access to challenging hiking routes in Eskdale Valley.
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
8.0 km
Explore one of Britain’s most remote Roman forts perched high in the Lake District with stunning valley views and evocative ruins.
Moss Force Waterfall
8.6 km
Discover the breathtaking 100-meter cascades of Moss Force, a serene yet powerful waterfall nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District.
Scale Force Waterfall
9.1 km
Discover England’s highest waterfall, Scale Force, a breathtaking 170-foot cascade hidden in the serene woodlands of the Lake District.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
9.3 km
Discover Stanley Ghyll Waterfall’s breathtaking 60-foot cascade nestled in Eskdale’s lush, fern-filled ravine, a Lake District natural gem.
Galleny Force Waterfall
9.6 km
Discover the enchanting Galleny Force Waterfall, a tranquil mossy gorge with crystal-clear pools nestled in Borrowdale Valley’s stunning natural landscape.
Wild Ennerdale
10.1 km
Experience the wild heart of the Lake District where nature thrives through pioneering rewilding and tranquil wilderness.
Bowder Stone
10.2 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Goldscope Mine
10.6 km
Explore the historic copper and lead mining legacy nestled in the scenic Lake District’s Newlands Valley.
Lake District National Park
10.9 km
Explore England’s largest national park, where majestic mountains, tranquil lakes, and rich literary heritage create an unforgettable natural and cultural journey.
Essential places to dine
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
10.3 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
11.1 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
14.4 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Jumble Room
15.0 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
The Cottage In The Wood
15.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining nestled in Whinlatter Forest with cozy rooms and stunning views of the Lake District’s Skiddaw mountains.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
18.0 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
Dodds Restaurant
19.4 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
Lucy's on a plate
19.4 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
19.4 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
19.5 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
19.5 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
The Samling Hotel
20.6 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
The Wild Duck Inn
20.7 km
Experience the charm of The Wild Duck Inn: where American flavors meet local hospitality in Branthwaite.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
21.0 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
21.0 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
16.5 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Love the Lakes Keswick
16.7 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Booths, Keswick
16.7 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Alternative
16.7 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
16.7 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
RockShop
19.5 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
Little Whims
23.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Little Whims, a cozy and creative gift shop in Whitehaven’s historic Market Place.
Tesco Express
24.6 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
24.6 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
The Original Man Shop
24.7 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Love the Lakes Bowness
24.7 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
24.7 km
Discover gifts and memorabilia inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
24.7 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Lonsdale Galleries
24.7 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
LAKELAND Leather
24.7 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
0.0 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
Wainwrights' Inn
14.0 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
16.6 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Golden Rule
19.4 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
19.5 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
19.5 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
21.7 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
22.4 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
Castle Bar
22.8 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
23.2 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Boaters Bar
24.4 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
24.4 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
24.5 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
Hole in t' Wall
24.6 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Easy Breeze
24.6 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
24.4 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
24.8 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The loose moose
39.1 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Lounge C9
39.3 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
39.4 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
39.4 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
Secret Carlisle
51.5 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
51.7 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
51.8 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
51.9 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
secret bridge
52.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Moorcock Inn
63.0 km
Discover the charm of The Moorcock Inn in Sedbergh, where cozy accommodations meet delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views.
The Tides Inn
65.4 km
Discover the charm of The Tides Inn, a cozy pub in Kirkcudbright offering delicious food, local drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all tourists.
The Steamie
65.5 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Steamie, a charming pub in the heart of Kirkcudbright offering local ales and a cozy atmosphere.
The Masonic Arms
65.6 km
Experience the cozy charm of The Masonic Arms in Kirkcudbright, where great food, local brews, and a friendly atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly