A Complete Guide to the 9 Best Pubs in Keswick
The Lake District is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and rolling hills that attract tourists worldwide. However, only a visit to the Lake District is complete with a visit to its quintessential Keswick pubs.
Keswick, located in the northern region of the Lake District, is home to some of the most charming and authentic pubs in the area. From historic watering holes to modern gastropubs, which are needed after a great Keswick walk!
Keswick offers a diverse range of options for every type of pub-goer. One of the great things about the pubs in Keswick is that many of them are dog-friendly. Whether you’re taking a walk in the Lake District with your furry friend or just looking for a place to relax and grab a drink, plenty of pubs in Keswick will welcome your dog with open arms. In fact, all the pubs we mention are dog-friendly pubs in Keswick.
In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the best pubs in Keswick with the best pub food in Keswick that are worth visiting on your next trip to the Lake District. These pubs will surely delight you with their warm hospitality, delicious food, and their selection of drinks.
9 Best Pubs in Keswick
The Pheasant Inn
Nestled in the heart of Keswick, The Pheasant Inn is a quintessential British pub that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Situated on Crosthwaite Road, opposite the northwest entrance to Fitz Park, this traditional establishment is a must-visit for anyone looking for great food and local real ales.
The Pheasant Inn prides itself on serving high-quality dishes bursting with flavour. From free-range pork Cumberland sausages to legendary fish pie – the menu at the Pheasant Inn has something for everyone. It is some of the best pub food in Keswick.
To top it all off, you can enjoy a refreshing pint of Jennings ale, including the establishment’s very own Pheasant Ale. With indoor and outdoor dining options, the Pheasant Inn offers a warm and welcoming environment where you can relax and unwind after a long day of exploring Keswick and the surrounding areas.
With its friendly staff, mouth-watering menu, and an unbeatable location, it’s easy to see why this pub is one of the best in Keswick.
Dog friendly? Yes – bring them along. It is one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Keswick (there are doggy snacks).
Opening times: noon to late every day for drinks.
The Wainright Pub
If you’re looking for a traditional pub with a relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of Cumbrian real ales, then The Wainwright Pub on Lake Road in Keswick town centre is a perfect choice. This welcoming establishment opened its doors in April 2015 after a complete refurbishment of the old ‘Four In Hand’ and has quickly become one of the best pubs in Keswick.
The Wainwright is dog-friendly, with oak floors throughout, making it an excellent spot for casual tourists and committed hikers. With up to eight real ales on offer, all sourced from Cumbrian breweries, this pub is a haven for ale lovers. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing pint or something more full-bodied, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.
But it’s not just the beer that makes The Wainwright a standout pub. The food here is also top-notch and has some of the best pub food in Keswick, with generous portions of hearty dishes like the steak and ale pie that will satisfy any appetite. Even on a Monday in April, the pub was bustling with happy customers, a testament to the quality of the food and service.
And with a lovely homely feel, friendly staff, and Victorian gents’ toilets that add a touch of old-world charm, The Wainwright is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great Keswick pub experience. So why not drop in, grab a pint, and see for yourself why The Wainwright is one of the best pubs in Keswick?
Dog friendly? Yes!
Opening times: from 11 am – late
The Pocket Bar and Cafe
If you’re looking for a cosy and welcoming pub in Keswick, then The Pocket Bar and Cafe should be on your list. Even though we know it’s technically not a pub, we felt it deserved a spot on the list anyway.
This fantastic establishment serves excellent drinks, delicious snacks, and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a relaxed meal after a day in the hills.
One of the standout features of The Pocket is its well-kept real ales. With three excellent options, you will indeed find something that satisfies your thirst. But it’s not just the drinks that make The Pocket a standout spot. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home, and the snacks are top-notch, with their beautiful pizzas being a particular highlight.
But more than the food and drink make The Pocket a great spot. There’s also live music to enjoy, adding to the already great atmosphere. It was the live music that drew us inside. What a fantastic atmosphere. And if you’re out with your furry friends, you’ll be pleased to know that dogs are allowed, making it the perfect spot for a family day out.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a night of good food, drinks, and entertainment, The Pocket Bar and Cafe is worth a visit. With its quirky charm, friendly staff, and a great selection of drinks and snacks, it’s no wonder it’s become a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Opening times: 11-11:30 pm (closed Tuesdays).
Dog friendly? Yes
Lake Road Inn
The Lake Road Inn, situated at the heart of Keswick, has undergone a stylish renovation and offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy traditional food and cask ale.
The name is derived from its location, which leads down to Derwentwater. Despite its small size, the quirky decor adds a unique charm to the pub, making it a great spot to grab a bite before exploring the wonders of Keswick or attending a show at the Theatre by the Lake.
A selection of excellent cask ales and wines are available, fitting for the Lake District. In addition, The Lake Road Inn welcomes dogs, making it an ideal choice for pet owners.
Despite the pub’s popularity and the bustling atmosphere, the friendly staff ensure every visitor feels welcome and comfortable. Make sure to stop by The Lake Road Inn on your next visit to Keswick.
Opening times: 12-10 pm
Dog friendly? Yes
Craft Beer Keswick
Craft Beer Keswick is a must-visit Keswick pub run by a group of beer enthusiasts dedicated to introducing the town to the exciting world of craft beer. Whether you want to sit in and enjoy a drink or take some beer home, Craft Beer Keswick has got you covered.
The pub stocks some of the best beer from the best breweries and also stock an array of local beer, cider, and spirits, so there’s something for everyone.
Craft Beer Keswick operates primarily as a shop, but there is also draught available with seating indoors and out for customers to enjoy a drink on-site.
There’s a great choice of craft beer and ciders, and the pub even offers a good selection of Gluten Free beers. Craft Beer Keswick is highly recommended without reservation and is perfect for anyone looking to try something different or set up a community of beer lovers in town.
Opening times: 12-8 pm (Saturday and Friday 12-9 pm).
Dog friendly? Yes
The Oddfelllows Arms
The Oddfellows Arms is a quintessential market town pub with everything you could want for a great time. Whether after a hearty meal, a refreshing drink in the warmth of the cosy interior during the colder months, or a relaxing drink in the extensive beer garden on a sunny day, this pub has got you covered.
With a wide range of pub drinks, including real ales, beers, wine, prosecco, spirits, juices, hot drinks, and soft drinks, there is something to suit every taste bud. The food menu is equally impressive, offering various options from light bites to steaks, burgers, curries, pizzas, and classic pub favourites such as fish and chips. It has some of the best pub food in Keswick.
So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, you’ll find it at one of the best Keswick pubs!
Opening times: 11 am-11 pm
Dog friendly? Yes
Dog and Gun
The Dog and Gun is a well-loved Keswick pub boasting friendly service, reasonable pricing, and a cosy atmosphere. Their famous homemade Hungarian Goulash has been a staple on the menu for years, available in both small and large portions. The pub takes pride in serving only freshly prepared meals, with no deep-fried options.
If you’re looking for a great meal in a relaxed setting, The Dog and Gun won’t disappoint with some of the best pub food in Keswick. Their beef pies are particularly recommended, and the fish and chips are also tasty. With a good selection of ales and ciders, it’s a great spot to unwind with a drink.
Dog lovers will be pleased to know that the pub is dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors. Overall, The Dog and Gun is a must-visit pub for those seeking an authentic local experience and is one of the best in Keswick.
Opening Time: 12 pm-11 pm
Dog friendly? Yes – the pub is full of them!
The Pack Horse Inn
The Pack Horse Inn is one of the traditional Keswick pubs with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its old wooden beams and a real fireplace provide the perfect setting for a cosy evening.
The Keswick pub boasts a diverse drinks range, including a fantastic selection of draught beers, lagers, ciders, and fine wines from around the world. The home-cooked food is a menu highlight, with dishes perfectly paired with a drink of your choice. The comfortable dining room and cosy bar areas offer a great place to enjoy your meal, whether it’s a quiet dinner for two or a celebration with friends and family.
The pub’s famous special pie is a must-try, and they offer a delicious Sunday roast that will satisfy your cravings. The roast beef and pork are perfectly cooked, and the Yorkshire puddings are light and tasty. For dessert, make sure to take advantage of the homemade apple pie with custard for some of the best pub food in Keswick.
Dogs are welcome at The Pack Horse Inn, and there is plenty of space between tables to ensure a comfortable experience for all. With great food and drinks, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere, The Pack Horse Inn is a top pub to visit in Keswick.
Opening Times – 11 am-11 pm
Dog friendly? Yes
The Bank Tavern
The Bank Tavern is a historic Keswick pub conveniently located in the town centre. It exudes a charming and warm atmosphere during winter and comes alive in summer with its lively beer garden. The traditional décor reflects the pub’s long history as one of Keswick’s oldest establishments, which has recently been converted to focus on dining and drinking.
As a Cask Marque-accredited establishment, The Bank Tavern prides itself on the quality of its pints. Its resident ales are from local brewers, Jennings, who use water from their well at Cockermouth Castle, which gives their ales ‘The Taste of the Lake District’.
The unpretentious menu offers a wide range of traditional pub food with an emphasis on quality, presentation, and service. Food is cooked fresh on the premises and served in generous portions. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for a relaxed family meal or a formal outing for some of the best pub food in Keswick.
There is friendly and efficient service, high-quality food, and a comfortable atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening meal or a lively night out, The Bank Tavern is sure to please you and is one of the best pubs in Keswick.
11 am to 11 pm and 11.30 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Dog friendly? Yes – they have an area for dogs – making it one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Keswick.
The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak in Keswick is a popular pub in the heart of Keswick. The pub’s well-stocked bar and varied menu provide a pleasing blend of pub classics and seasonal dishes prepared with fresh produce.
Food at The Royal Oak is a highlight, and it is no surprise that it is a popular choice for diners in Keswick. The restaurant serves delicious dishes made with seasonal ingredients, and a great selection of drinks complements the meal.
Despite being a busy pub, the staff at The Royal Oak go out of their way to ensure guests are accommodated, even finding a table for diners with dogs. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it a must-visit pub in Keswick. We recommend booking ahead for food to avoid disappointment.
Opening Times: Mon-Sat 10 am-11 pm Sunday 10 am – 10:30 pm
Dog friendly? Yep – it is one of the top dog-friendly pubs in Keswick.
Overall Thoughts on the Best Pubs in Keswick
No matter which Keswick pub you choose to visit, you’re sure to find a good spot with plenty of character and charm. From historic watering holes to modern gastropubs, Keswick has something to offer for every type of pub-goer.
So, if you’re in the Lake District and looking for a place to enjoy a pint of real ale or a hearty meal, be sure to check out one of these best pubs in Keswick.
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