A Foodie’s Guide to the 6 Best Pubs in the South Lakes
Hello! I work for Brathay Cottages, and I spend much of my weekends eating good food, in particular at good pubs! After years of “research” (i.e. eating my way across the region), here are some of my absolute favourite pubs in the South Lakes. There is a mix of character, delicious food, and cracking ale—and not a chain pub in sight.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
This is a sophisticated gastro pub just fifteen minutes from Windermere—think twice baked Cheese souffle, 8 oz Cumbrian Beef fillet and seasonal additions local to the Lakes. They do a great Sunday Lunch and also offer a vegan menu (perfect for my wife) . Add a wood-burning fire and an extensive wine list and you’ve got a winner.
The Brown Horse Inn, Winster
This is one of my favourites after a long fell walk – the atmosphere is relaxed, the staff are lovely, and the food is great pub grub with decent portion sizes…. Hearty without being heavy. Their fish pie is legendary! Great sandwiches too if you are after a lighter lunch.
The Crafty Baa, Windermere
Not your traditional country pub—but who says you can’t mix things up? The Crafty Baa is quirky, award-winning, and absolutely brilliant. Walls made of upcycled wood, shelves of over 100 craft beers from around the globe and some of the best ciabatta rolls and wraps you’ll ever eat (Try the BBQ Cluckin Oink Wrap – my go to). They also serve great pizza. It’s cozy, chaotic, and completely up my street! There is one in Keswick too should you venture to the North Lakes.
The Drunken Duck Inn and Barngates Brewery, near Ambleside
Another gastro pub, stylish yet rustic. The food in the restaurant is quite sophisticated (think wild rabbit, charred baby gem, pea and mint sauce, liquorice) but they also serve soup, sandwiches and chips in the bar area. The views are fab, and they brew their own beers under the name Barngates Brewery. A pint of Tag Lag with your meal? Yes please.
The Black Labrador, Underbarrow
Tucked away in the tiny village of Underbarrow, this cosy traditional country pub is small but mighty and serves up homemade pub classics. My favourite is the Steak, Ale, Mushroom and Stilton pie but my children without fail choose the Black Labrador Beef Burger.
The Mortal Man, Troutbeck
Just two miles from Windermere this country pub is a local’s favourite with its views down to the Lake from the Beer Garden. Old fashioned in a good way (solid wood tables/ beams and red checked carpet) with good pub grub. It is particularly good for brunch or a post walk hot sandwich.
