The Lake District is known for its stunning mountainscapes that beckon two and four-legged adventurers alike with the promise of wonder-filled escapism. But did you know that the area is a real hot spot for foodies too? Tempting canine connoisseurs and their loyal owners for post-walk refuels, leisurely lunches and late-night dinners, there are some superb dog-friendly restaurants in the Lake District providing a vast menu of options for everyone.
If you’re planning your next visit to the Lake District with your dog, we have just the thing for you. Compiling a list of some of the top restaurants in the National Park that open arms (and paws) to all dogs great and small, we’ve found somewhere to suit every appetite and occasion.
So, without further ado, here are our top dog-friendly restaurants in the Lake District…
Rothay Manor Restaurant, Ambleside
Rothay Manor Restaurant takes pride of place against a leafy backdrop on the banks of the River Rothay in Ambleside. Understanding that no holiday (or meal) is complete without your best friend by your side, this lovely manor has a dedicated dog-friendly drawing room where you can head for coffee, drinks, lunch and afternoon tea. They also have dog-friendly gardens and an outdoor terrace where relaxed afternoons can be spent over plates of finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones and an array of sweet treats. Dreamy.
Francine’s, Windermere
Laidback and oh-so dog-friendly, Francine’s is a modern bistro-style restaurant and coffee house just a short walk(ies) away from the shores of Lake Windermere. It’s certainly one of the finest dog-friendly restaurants in the Lake District, close to superb holiday accommodation in Windermere. Presenting an à la carte menu alongside daily specials, there’s always something delicious to tempt keen noses here. As well as delightful foodie offerings, Francine’s also offers the humans of the pack a generous list of drinks too, including quaffable wines and real local ales – a well-earned reward after outdoorsy exploration. Just remember to call in advance to confirm the reservation of you and your pooch to avoid missing out.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
The Michelin-recommended Punch Bowl Inn should be on everyone’s list of dog-friendly restaurants in the Lake District. A 17th Century inn in Crosthwaite in the heart of the hilly Lyth Valley, it serves up classic British and French-inspired dishes curated with the highest quality, seasonal Lakeland ingredients. Phone up in advance to secure one of their two sought-after dog-friendly tables and look forward to flavoursome repasts – ready to choose from mouth-watering starters and mains such as the Punch Bowl’s twice-baked Lancashire cheese soufflé and Creedy Carver duck breast.
The Wild Boar, Windermere
Close to Bowness-on-Windermere, The Wild Boar is a great place to go after days exploring the scenic highlights of the Lake District National Park. Home to a great dog-friendly bar and lounge, it sets an atmospheric scene for meals with your pup with exposed old beams, a large fireplace that crackles away in winter, and comfortable seating topped with plump cushions. Offering a menu of locally-sourced fare – including grilled meats, seafood and veggie options – this dog-friendly eatery is a firm favourite with locals and visiting canines alike.
The Black Labrador, Underbarrow
Dubbed one of the best-kept secrets in the Lake District, The Black Labrador in Underbarrow is a real hit. And, as the name duly implies, it’s very dog-friendly, too. Welcoming day-trippers, fell walkers and seasoned foodies alike, it balances a warm welcome with even warmer plates to tempt all generations in for rest and fodder. If you can’t wait to visit with your dog, then you can look forward to all sorts of appetising mains to satiate your appetite. Served in tandem with the seasons, the set menu and daily specials here include traditional dishes such as steak and ale pie, bangers and mash, and the special Black Labrador chicken burger.
The Square Orange Cafe Bar, Keswick
Lovingly known as “The Squorange” by regulars, The Square Orange is a café, bar and eatery in the town of Keswick. Just a ball’s throw from Skiddaw, one of the highest mountains you can climb with your dog in the Lake District, it is a popular haunt for those looking to lap up the atmosphere between adventures in the fells. With baked pizzas, tapas-style small plates and all sorts of deliciously tempting desserts to choose from, you’re to find something to pique your attention. We’re sure your dog will help you with a chip or two, too.
Lewis’s, Grasmere
Lewis’s is a fantastic dog-friendly bistro in Grasmere. A family-run restaurant within stunning surroundings and dressed with modern décor, it has all the ingredients for a wonderful venue for meals with your pup. Take your seat and peruse the menu of local goodies – all the dishes here are comprised of locally-sourced produce wherever possible for a true taste of the Lakes. Just be aware that it’s first paws first served though, as this modestly-proportioned restaurant only has space for up to four dogs per service.
Queen’s Head, Troutbeck
We couldn’t write a guide to the best places to eat with your dog in the Lake District without mentioning the Queen’s Head in Troutbeck. One of our favourite pubs with a dog-friendly restaurant, this gastro-hub has put so much thought into its four-legged clientele that it has even created its very own dog-friendly menu. Composed of all sorts of delectable doggy feasts that’ll have your dog’s tail whirring with excitement, it features canine culinary highlights such as wham bam lamb, pork this way and cluck chuck chicken – all served with dog-friendly gravy, naturally. If that wasn’t enough, there are even some dog-friendly wines and beers available for all those pampered pooches of the pack too. After all, why not?
If you’re feeling inspired to fuel your appetite, take a look at some our favourite dog-friendly things to do with your dog in the Lake District too – from scenic walks to dog-friendly attractions.
Book a Holiday Cottage to Sample these and other Dog Friendly Restaurants in the Lake District
Sample the food at these delightful dog-friendly restaurants in the Lake District and explore the phenomenal local countryside by booking a holiday cottage in the Lakes. We have over 1,400 holiday lets to choose from and they all welcome dogs!
