The Talbot Bar at Skelwith Bridge Hotel, Ambleside
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
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.
A brief summary to The Talbot Bar
- Lake District National Park, Skelwith Bridge Hotel, Ambleside, LA22 9NJ, GB
- +441539432115
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-10:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the signature steak pie, praised for its slow-cooked meat and flaky pastry.
- Book in advance for the indulgent afternoon tea featuring scones and Prosecco.
- Visit on Sunday to enjoy the traditional Sunday roast with local meats and vegetarian options.
- Bring your dog along—the bar is very dog-friendly and welcomes four-legged guests.
- Be aware that the bar closes food service at 8 PM, so plan your evening meal accordingly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Talbot Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Talbot Bar
A Rustic Gem in the Lake District
The Talbot Bar is situated within the charming Skelwith Bridge Hotel, just outside Ambleside, in the scenic Lake District National Park. This location offers visitors a cozy retreat surrounded by the natural beauty of Cumbria, with easy access to the fells and lakes that define the area. The pub's setting combines rustic charm with a relaxed ambiance, making it a comfortable stop for travelers seeking authentic local hospitality.Traditional Lakeland Flavors
The bar specializes in traditional Lakeland comfort food, featuring dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients prepared with care and simplicity. Signature offerings include a renowned steak pie with slow-cooked, meaty filling and a thin pastry crust, generous fish and chips, and a variety of vegetarian options such as mushroom tagliatelle and sweet potato curry. The menu is modest but well-crafted, emphasizing quality over quantity, and is complemented by a selection of Jennings ales, Lakeland Bedrock gin, Lakes vodka, and whiskies from The Lakes Distillery.Warm Atmosphere and Welcoming Service
Visitors consistently note the friendly and attentive staff who contribute to the bar's inviting atmosphere. The Talbot Bar prides itself on being dog-friendly, ensuring that four-legged companions are as welcome as their owners. Despite occasional comments about the lighting being bright, the overall vibe remains cozy and unpretentious, with a drawing room-style lounge adjacent to the bar providing a comfortable space to relax.Dining Experience and Traditions
The Talbot Bar serves meals daily from noon until 8 PM, with a brief pause between 4 PM and 5 PM. The adjoining Bridge Restaurant offers additional dining options from early evening. A highlight for many is the traditional Sunday roast, featuring locally sourced meats and vegetarian alternatives, celebrated as a staple of the Lake District culinary experience. The bar also offers an indulgent afternoon tea service, complete with freshly baked scones, pastries, fine teas, and an optional glass of Prosecco, available daily by advance booking.Ale Excellence and Local Spirit
The Talbot Bar has earned the prestigious Cask Marque accreditation for eight consecutive years, underscoring its commitment to serving quality ales. This recognition places it among the top establishments on the world's largest ale trail, appealing to enthusiasts eager to sample authentic regional brews. The bar’s beverage selection reflects the rich distilling traditions of the Lake District, enhancing the overall experience.Ideal for Visitors and Locals Alike
Whether you are returning from a day exploring the fells or seeking a relaxed evening meal, The Talbot Bar offers a hearty, satisfying experience. Its location a short drive from Ambleside means it is a peaceful alternative to busier town pubs, though the walk back can be steep. The bar’s blend of good food, quality drinks, and a welcoming environment ensures it remains a cherished spot in the Lake District.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eskdale Mill
16.8 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Fell Foot
16.9 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Lodore Falls
17.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
Surprise View
17.3 km
Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
17.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Ashness Bridge
17.8 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Aira Force Waterfall
17.9 km
Explore Aira Force Waterfall, a breathtaking natural attraction in the Lake District, offering stunning views and exhilarating hiking adventures amidst lush landscapes.
National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
18.0 km
Experience breathtaking beauty at Aira Force and Ullswater, the crown jewel of the Lake District, with cascading waterfalls and stunning landscapes.
Friars Crag
20.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.
Moss Force Waterfall
20.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Moss Force Waterfall, a hidden treasure in the heart of Cockermouth, perfect for hiking and nature appreciation.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
20.8 km
Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Keswick Methodist Church
21.3 km
Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.
Keswick War Memorial
21.4 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
Lake District National Park Authority
21.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.
National Trust - Sizergh
21.9 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rydal Cave
2.5 km
Explore the atmospheric man-made Rydal Cave, a historic slate quarry nestled beside tranquil Rydal Water in the scenic English Lake District.
Ambleside Roman Fort
2.9 km
Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.
Stepping Stones
3.0 km
A tranquil riverside retreat under Loughrigg near Ambleside, blending scenic beauty with cozy comfort in the heart of the Lake District.
Rothay Park
3.0 km
A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.
Borrans Park
3.1 km
Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.
White Platts Recreation Ground
3.2 km
A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.
Ambleside Town Centre
3.3 km
Ambleside Town Centre: A vibrant market hub at Lake Windermere’s edge, blending heritage, nature, and local charm.
The Bridge House
3.4 km
A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Armitt Library & Museum Centre
3.5 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside and the Lake District at The Armitt, a unique museum, gallery, and library founded in 1912.
Golden Rule
3.5 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.
RockShop
3.5 km
Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
3.5 km
Explore William Wordsworth’s cherished home and gardens, where poetry, nature, and history intertwine amidst stunning Lake District views.
Wordsworth Grasmere
3.6 km
Step into William Wordsworth’s world at Dove Cottage in Grasmere, where poetry, nature and history come alive in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
3.7 km
Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.
Faeryland Grasmere
3.8 km
Enchanting lakeside tea garden with colorful outdoor seating, boat hire, and stunning views on Grasmere Lake near Ambleside.
Essential places to dine
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
2.3 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
2.4 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Lucy's on a plate
3.4 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
3.4 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lake Road Kitchen
3.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Dodds Restaurant
3.4 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Samling Hotel
4.1 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
The Jumble Room
4.1 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
4.4 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)
4.4 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
The Gaddum
5.2 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
5.7 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
6.4 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
8.3 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
8.5 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
8.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
8.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
8.8 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Mountain Warehouse
8.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Pretty Things
8.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
8.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
LAKELAND Leather
8.8 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Lonsdale Galleries
8.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Love the Lakes Bowness
8.8 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
19.5 km
Explore the Lakeland Distribution Centre for an unparalleled selection of kitchen supplies and home goods in the heart of Kendal.
The Antiques Emporium
19.8 km
Explore a remarkable collection of antiques and collectibles at The Antiques Emporium in Kendal, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and treasure hunters alike.
Sainsbury's
19.9 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
Elephant Yard Shopping
20.1 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
20.1 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Talbot Bar
0.0 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Wainwrights' Inn
2.8 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Lily Bar
3.4 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Vault
3.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
6.0 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.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
7.0 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
The Windermere Speakeasy
8.4 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
8.4 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
8.4 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
8.4 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.
Hole in t' Wall
8.7 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
8.7 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
Boaters Bar
8.8 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
The Lake View Bowness
8.8 km
A welcoming lakeside pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering stunning views, hearty fare, and classic English charm.
The Easy Breeze
8.8 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
Windermere Social Club
8.6 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
8.7 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
31.7 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
37.0 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
37.0 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
37.0 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
secret bridge
41.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
52.4 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
52.6 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
52.9 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
52.9 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Hawes Club
54.6 km
Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.
Settle Working Mens Club
61.9 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
The George Inn
63.3 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
Peek A Booze
66.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Lively
- Dog Friendly
- Cozy
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
