Discover the National Park’s stunning scenery and hidden gems when you embark on some of the best pub walks in the Lake District. Wander through idyllic valleys and scale rugged fells before returning to one of the best pubs in the Lake District, where you can cosy up in front of a roaring fire and enjoy a well-earned drink.
Ambleside to Grasmere via Rydal Cave and Loughrigg Terrace
Just a short stroll to Lake Windermere and surrounded by epic Lakeland fells, Ambleside is considered one of the most picturesque market towns in England. As well as boasting independent shops and cool little restaurants, you’ll find several local inns, making it the perfect location for some of the best pub walks in the Lake District.
This 10-mile pub walk steers you from the centre of Ambleside, through Rothay Park and along the River Rothay. At Pelter Bridge, begin the short climb up to Rydal Cave, one of the most impressive in the country. Located on the north side of Loughrigg Fell, the manmade cavern is accessed via a series of stepping stones – make sure you look out for the fish! The acoustics inside the cave are fantastic, attracting singers and musicians who come to perform here.
From Loughrigg Cave, follow the path that winds its way up to Loughrigg Terrace and soak up the panoramic views across Rydal Water and Grasmere. On a clear day, you can also see the majestic peaks of the Fairfield Horseshoe.
As the trail meanders above the two lakes, begin to descend into the picturesque village of Grasmere, famous for its connections to William Wordsworth and its delicious Grasmere gingerbread. Take a stroll through the village before making your way back to Ambleside. If you don’t want to return the same way, you can take an alternative route along the old Coffin Route and visit Dove Cottage, the former home of William Wordsworth. If you feel like cheating on the way back from Grasmere, hop on a bus and rest your legs – shh, we won’t tell anyone!
Which Pub? – The Temperance Inn, Ambleside
Address: 33 Lake Rd, Ambleside LA22 0BH
Phone: 015394 33192
When you arrive at Ambleside, head straight for the Temperance Inn. Nestled right in the heart of the town, this dog-friendly inn is one of the best pubs in Ambleside and promises a warm welcome and the perfect pint. And if you’re feeling a bit peckish after your walk, you can tuck into a hearty homecooked meal or a light lunch. Don’t worry if you’re in the mood to push the boat out with a few more drinks, you can always slope off upstairs and stay in one of the cosy rooms for the night at this dog friendly pub accommodation in the Lake District
Tarn Hows Circular
From the car park at Tarn Hows, walk down to the well-marked trail that meanders along the waterside. With the tarn on your right, follow the path until you come to a gate then turn right where you’ll soon see a sign for Tom Gill waterfall. I’d definitely recommend taking this short detour through the woodland to the waterfall.
Return to the path and continue along the route, staying close to the water’s edge. At the northern tip of the tarn, cross over a small wooden bridge and head back along the western shore. To return to the car park, make sure you follow the path that climbs up to the left, signposted Hawkshead, where you’re met with the most incredible views of the tarn and fells beyond.
This is an easy two-mile circular route that can be extended with a walk to one of the most famous Lake District pubs, The Drunken Duck. You can either head up to the Cumbria Way, through the Iron Keld plantation and over the hillside path or you can take the easier route along the roadside and via Knipe Fold.
Which Pub? The Drunken Duck Inn
Address: Barngates, Ambleside LA22 0NG
Phone: 015394 36347
Standing on the hillside overlooking the fell scenery of Ambleside, The Drunken Duck Inn serves up some of the best food in the Lake District. The pub has made a huge buzz on the foodie scene, attracting Lakeland walkers and locals hankering after divine Cumbrian dishes and a pint of the famous ale, brewed on-site at the Barngates Brewery.
Its rustic charm mingles with an air of sophistication, keeping it classy yet laid-back. An eclectic array of photographs hangs on the walls above wooden floors as the roaring fire lulls you into total relaxation. Inspired by the seasons and the freshest local produce, the Chef puts a contemporary spin on hearty classics. The Drunken Duck also boasts some of the best pub accommodation in the Lake District, with seriously stylish rooms and suites featuring roll top baths or dreamy fell views.
The Ullswater Way
This 20-mile walking route along the Ullswater Way takes you on a circuit around England’s most beautiful lake. Soak up breathtaking views, explore charming villages and a get a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
The route begins in the village of Glenridding, which lies beneath the gaze of Helvellyn, England’s third highest mountain. From here, follow the path along the western shore of Ullswater, passing through the sleepy villages of Patterdale and Howtown.
As you walk, pause to appreciate the lake and fell views. You might even be lucky enough to spot red squirrels, peregrine falcons and ospreys along the way. The trail continues along the eastern shore of Ullswater, passing through the villages of Pooley Bridge and Watermillock.
The Ullswater Way is challenging but also rewarding and is a great walk for both seasoned hikers and anyone less experienced. The good news is, you don’t have to walk the entire route in one go and you can break it down into more manageable sections.
Which Pub? – The Ullswater Inn, Glenridding
Address: A592, Glenridding, Penrith CA11 0PB
Phone: 017684 82228
Perched on the shores of the southern tip of the lake, the Ullswater Inn is a sight for sore eyes and weary legs after a long hike. Following an extensive refurbishment, this Lake District pub with rooms has been transformed into a stylish watering hole for wetting your whistle and enjoying seasonal pub grub by the fire.
The views from the inn stretch across Ullswater and on a sunny day you can sit outside and gaze up at the dramatic peaks of Helvellyn while you feast on some of the best pub food in the Lake District. If you want to extend your trip, stay overnight in a room with a view. Being one of the most dog friendly pubs in the Lake District, dogs are just as welcome as their humans here, and they’re sure to love it as much as you.
Windermere to Wray Castle via the Western Shore
Just over eight miles from the centre of Windermere, this is one of the most beautiful pub walks in the Lake district and guides you along the quieter side of the lake. Head south along the shore towards Bowness Nab and take the ferry to Mitchell Wyke. It’s worth a slight detour up to Claife Viewing Station to take in the magnificent views from its dizzying heights overlooking Windermere.
Return to the path that hugs the western shore of the lake, passing peaceful lakeside beaches and hidden viewpoints. The linear trail culminates at Wray Castle, a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle wrapped inside sprawling gardens and pretty woodlands. From the castle, take a lake cruise back to Bowness and return along the shore to Windermere.
Which Pub? – The Crafty Baa, Windermere
Address: 21 Victoria St, Windermere LA23 1AB
Phone: 015394 88002
Filled with lovable eccentricities, The Crafty Baa is a real gem of a place with a string of awards to its name. This family-run pub may be small but it sure packs a punch with its quirky interior, exposed stone walls and chilled vibe. Whether you’re a coffee snob or you prefer a more traditional real ale, the open fire provides the perfect spot for enjoying your favourite tipple and a good old chinwag with friends.
The menu is just as quirky as the décor with its tasty selection of humorously named wraps, pizzas and tapas-style dishes. If the “Sun Burnt Piggy Skin” doesn’t tempt your tastebuds then you might want to get your mouth around the “Chillie Willie” instead!
Tongue Pot, Eskdale
Considered another of the best pub walks in the Lake District, this scenic 4-mile hike starts and ends at The Woolpack Inn at Boot and takes you on a stunning journey through the Eskdale Valley. This route is blessed with fell views, a riverside trail, waterfalls and wild swimming spots.
Set off from the 16th-century coaching inn and turn left onto the road. If you prefer to skip the walk along the road, you can drive down to one of the roadside parking areas.
As you walk, views of the surrounding fells open up before you, including the majestic Scafell range. When you arrive at an old red telephone box at the foot of Hardknott Pass, follow the country lane on the left, passing through rolling hills and idyllic farmland.
Keeping the river on your left, walk for approximately two miles. The path does get rocky and boggy underfoot in places but there are plenty of natural pools along the river where you can stop off for a rest. You eventually reach Tongue Pot, a natural pool carved into the hillside that sits beneath a leafy canopy. This has become a popular spot for wild swimming, so I’d recommend getting there early or visiting during the week. Continue a bit further up to reach the old packhorse bridge and the beautiful waterfalls.
Which Pub? – The Woolpack Inn, Boot
Address: Woolpack Inn, Boot, Holmrook CA19 1TH
Phone: 019467 23230
Nuzzled into the beautiful Eskdale Valley, The Woolpack Inn is one of the best Lake District pubs. Its historic charm, friendly atmosphere and incredible location are huge draws for anyone visiting the western Lake District. Inside, you’ll find flop-into sofas, wooden floors and crackling log burners, the perfect backdrop for enjoying delicious homemade food in the winter months.
In the summer, step outside into the beer garden and share one of the pub’s famous wood-fired pizzas, all washed down with a local ale or chilled wine, of course. If you fancy staying over with friends, the Woolpack Lodge has four bedrooms, kitchen and lounge and is a great place to hang out after a long walk. Alternatively, book yourself into one of the elegant guest rooms.
