There’s nothing more exciting after hours of hiking through wind-scoured mountains or basking by glistening lakes than a plate of tasty food at a proper local pub – especially when your pup can enjoy the occasion too. Fortunately, dotted all around the Lake District are pawstively wonderful pubs with dog-friendly restaurants and bars that provide the perfect place to refuel and recharge. From popular haunts nestled at the foot of fells to winsome village inns to lakeside gems, there all kinds of foodie favourites just waiting to welcome you in.
If you are planning a Lake District holiday with your dog, take a look at our guide to the best dog-friendly pubs to visit. While some have dedicated dog-friendly areas and gardens, many go the extra mile with dog-friendly biscuits, water bowls, and even specialist doggy menus. Whether you’d like to book a table for a hearty meal or just want to pop in for a drink, you can find just the right spot to lap up the atmosphere with your favourite four-legged being. So, without further ado, here are some of the top dog-friendly pubs in this beautiful National Park.
The Flying Pig, Bowness-on-Windermere
Just a short walk(ies) away from the shores of Lake Windermere, the dog-friendly Flying Pig in Bowness awaits with deep-seated pews, a well-stocked bar and a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. For pups, there is a dedicated dog-friendly bar area that’s instantly inviting, decorated in a contemporary take on the traditional. Water bowls are available outside, and dog biscuits and gentle pats are often dished out by the pub staff for willing four-legged guests. It’s a welcoming place to visit with a dog in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Wateredge Inn, Ambleside
Overlooking the sparkling waters of England’s largest lake, the Wateredge Inn in Ambleside is a real favourite amongst discerning canines who like their meals served with a side of gorgeous views. Particularly dog-friendly, this pub welcomes dogs in dedicated areas inside both its dining room and bar, as well as outside in its grounds which roll down to meet the shores of Lake Windermere. Head over for breakfast, lunch or dinner and tuck into classic British favourites.
The Wasdale Head, Gosforth
Located at the head of the valley basin at the tip of Wast Water and below Scafell Pike, the Wasdale Head in Gosforth boasts one of the most stunning locations for a pub in in the UK. Naturally, for energetic dogs and their owners who have been roaming the surrounding landscapes, it’s a hugely popular choice. Follow in the footsteps of British rock-climbing legends and head over for a drink between its thick stone walls or sit outside in the sunshine with a plate stacked with your favourite meal.
The Woolpack, Holmrook
One of the Lake District’s oldest inns, the Woolpack is a well-known dog-friendly pub that exudes character and charm. Situated in Holmrook in the beautiful Eskdale Valley at the foot of Hardknott Pass, it’s an idyllic place to drink and dine throughout the year with indoor and outdoor seating. As well as its seasonally-changing mains, this pub is also famed for its dribble-worthy homemade pizzas made to order in the pub’s woodfired pizza oven.
The Queen’s Head, Troutbeck
The Queen’s Head in Troutbeck is a pub that prides itself on serving food for all, crafted in tandem with the seasons with fresh Lakeland produce. And when we say food for all, we really mean it, as this pub even has its very own dedicated doggy menu. Absolutely guaranteed to set tails wagging with glee, it includes delicious dog-friendly dishes like Wham Bam Lamb and Fishy Dishy, as well as dog-friendly beers and wine. It’s love at first bite.
The Inn, Ravenglass
Set overlooking the water in the Lake District’s only coastal town, the Inn at Ravenglass is well worth a visit for its location alone. With views overlooking the estuary and sea beyond, it really is a wonderful place to treat yourself to a well-deserved meal or drink – especially if you can time it with a showstopping Lake District sunset. What’s more, it’s also very dog-friendly and welcomes dogs into its bar and a dog-friendly dining area. It’s a win from Fido.
The Crafty Baa, Windermere
If you would like to visit somewhere a little different with your dog, look no further than the award-winning Crafty Baa pub in the heart of Windermere. A former bookshop lovingly and creatively transformed into a quirky pub, it’s a real head-turner – with most of the materials and furniture spread out across the pub’s three floors having been recycled or upcycled. Best of all, this pub is very dog-friendly, and your pup may even get a chance to meet the Crafty Baa’s resident doggy too!
The Dog and Gun, Keswick
A favourite among local and visiting four-pawed punters, the Dog and Gun in Keswick is a great pub with plenty of magnetism. For human diners, the pub’s famous home-made Hungarian Goulash is highly recommended, having been made there for years. Meanwhile, for guests of the waggy-tailed variety, we definitely advise a trip to the bar where dog treats are stored, ready and waiting to be delicately sampled (okay, eagerly gobbled up) by lucky hounds.
The Black Bull Inn, Coniston
For a little bow-wow with your wow-chow, head over to the 400-year-old Black Inn in the village of Coniston. Set alongside a babbling beck and in view of the ‘Old Man’ mountain, this real Lake District pub welcomes families, moody-booted walkers and furry pals alike. Choose from seating inside or outside (dogs are allowed in both) and peruse the menu of feel-good pub classics. For added appeal, you’ll find the attractive oak and stone bar well-stocked with local real ales, wines and spirits.
Plan a Holiday With Your Dog in the Lake District
Now you know where to stop for a bite to eat and a drink in the Lake District, why not plan a trip to this mountainous beauty spot with your dog? Visit our Lake District section to see the wide range of holiday homes that allow pets in the Lakes.
