The last week or so has been pretty chilly to say the least, leaving the Lake District covered in a blanket of snow and ice. But what can we do to warm up? How about whiling away an afternoon or evening in the comfortable surroundings of a cosy Lake District pub?
To provide a little inspiration, we've whittled the choice down to a few of our favourites, focussing on Windermere and the surrounding area. Below are a few of our favourite cosy Lake District pubs, somewhere to enjoy some delicious food and drink in the fine company of family and friends.
The Crafty Baa
This quirky, family run, former AA Pub of the Year is situated in the heart of Windermere, and if you're a craft beer fan, The Crafty Baa is a must visit, boasting over 100 bottled craft beers from around the world, as well as real ales, stouts, porters, IPAs and lagers. Food is served all day (from 11am to 10.30pm) and whether it's nibbles, platters or hot sandwiches, there's something to satisfy most appetites.
The Punchbowl Inn, Crosthwaite
The Punchbowl Inn is a charming, rustic seventeenth century pub on the outskirts of the village of Crosthwaite, in the heart of the Lyth Valley. It has become synonymous with fantastic food, earning two well-deserved AA rosettes along the way. The extensive menu is available at lunchtime from Monday to Saturday (12.00 - 3pm) and every evening between 5.30pm and 8.30pm (Saturday and Sunday 6pm - 8.30pm). The Sunday Lunch menu changes on a weekly basis and is served from 12pm - 3pm.
If you do decide to book a table, make sure you try the twice baked cheese souffl�. It's amazing.
The Black Labrador, Underbarrow
Located in the village of Underbarrow, a few minutes up the road from the Punchbowl, is the Black Labrador, where, as the name suggests, your canine friends will be given a warm welcome.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday (at the time of writing), this 16th century pub provides a warm Lakeland welcome, not least due to the roaring log burner in the bar. It also offers delicious food and a fine selection of beers and wine.
The Hare and Hounds at Bowland Bridge
To the east of Lake Windermere is the Hare and Hounds at Bowland Bridge. And if you're looking for fantastic food without the fuss, this is perfect.
You'll find classic pub dishes here, such as steak and ale pie or beer battered fish and chips, as well as daily specials, lighter meals and vegetarian dishes. For something truly special, make sure you book a table for Sunday lunch, particularly if you're partial to a Yorkshire Pudding.
The Queens Head, Troutbeck
The Queen's Head at Troutbeck is a 17th century coaching inn that lies at the foot of the Kirkstone Pass, nestled on the side of the fells which overlook the Troutbeck Valley. The inn has recently undergone an extensive restoration and the result oozes class with ornate wood carvings, large stone fireplaces and exposed beams.
The Queens Head has become renowned for serving up some great dishes, with a range of tasty options, including a full cooked breakfast available for guests and non-guests. The perfect way to start your day.
Tower Bank Arms, Near Sawrey
When the ferry is running, why not head to the west side of Lake Windermere and Beatrix Potter country. Or more precisely, why not pop to Tower Bank Arms, a traditional country pub with a roaring log fire and flagstone floors?
The food is considered to be some of the best food in the area, so it's pretty popular. It's also earned a reputation for catering extremely well for those with food allergies and intolerances. So if you're planning on enjoying a meal there, make sure you book in advance.
Hole in t'Wall, Bowness-on-Windermere
Our final stop is the Hole in t'Wall in Bowness, the oldest pub in Bowness. It has also been named the cosiest pub in Britain in a survey conducted earlier this year.
Whether you're looking for a pint of award-winning Robinsons' ale, a craft gin or a wholesome meal, a warm welcome awaits you at Hole in t'Wall.
With so many amazing pubs in and around Windermere, narrowing down the choice to just a few was a challenge. But if you're in the area, we can highly recommend these cosy Lake District pubs.
And if you'd like more information, please get in touch.
