There's nothing quite like finishing a Lake District walk with a well-earned pint in a proper pub, your dog stretched out by the fire. The good news is that the Lakes is one of the most dog-friendly regions in Britain, and finding a pub that welcomes four-legged visitors is rarely a challenge.
From centuries-old coaching inns to walkers' favourites with flagstone floors and roaring fires, the Lake District's pubs understand that dogs are part of the family. Many go beyond mere tolerance, offering treats, water bowls and genuine warmth that makes both ends of the lead feel welcome. Some even provide dog menus, dedicated drying areas for wet pooches, and beds by the fire.
The pub culture here is intertwined with walking culture. Generations of fell-walkers have finished their days in these establishments, and dogs have been welcome companions throughout. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated gastro pub with locally foraged ingredients or a no-frills walkers' bar where wet dogs and muddy boots are standard, the Lake District delivers.
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have tested dozens of Lake District pubs over the years. This guide shares our favourites, organised by area so you can find the perfect post-walk refreshment wherever your Lake District adventures take you.
Keswick Pubs
Keswick was named Britain's Most Dog-Friendly Town by the Kennel Club three years running, so it's no surprise that virtually every pub welcomes dogs. The town sits between Derwentwater and the northern fells, making it a natural base for walkers. After exploring Derwentwater's shores or climbing Catbells, these are the best spots to refuel.
The Dog and Gun
If a pub called the Dog and Gun wasn't dog-friendly, something would be very wrong. Happily, this traditional Keswick institution welcomes dogs in all areas and has done for generations. It's the kind of pub where four-legged customers sometimes outnumber two-legged ones.
- Dog welcome: All areas, treats available at bar
- Food highlight: The legendary Hungarian goulash, served for over 60 years
- Real ales: Good selection of local brews
- Atmosphere: Traditional, cosy, often busy with walkers
- Address: Lake Road, Keswick, CA12 5BT
The goulash here is genuinely famous. It comes in small and large portions, is hearty and warming, and is exactly what you want after a wet day on the fells. The kitchen prides itself on not serving any shallow or deep-fried food, making this a proper meal rather than just pub grub.
The Wainwright
Named after the legendary fell-walker whose pictorial guides still inspire walkers today, this pub on Lake Road delivers exactly what you'd expect: a warm welcome for walkers and their dogs.
- Dog welcome: Throughout, water bowls provided
- Food highlight: Traditional pub food, all-day menu
- Real ales: Local cask ales
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, walker-focused
- Address: Lake Road, Keswick, CA12 5BX
A good choice after walks to Walla Crag or around Derwentwater.
The Pheasant Inn
At Crosthwaite near Keswick, this traditional country pub is known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent Lakeland food.
- Dog welcome: Bar area, muddy boots and bikes also welcome
- Food highlight: Locally sourced Lakeland dishes
- Real ales: Jennings ales
- Atmosphere: Traditional country pub with real fire
- Address: Crosthwaite, Keswick, CA12 5PB
The raised beer terrace offers stunning views in summer.
Bank Tavern
In Keswick town centre with flagstone floors designed for muddy paws.
- Dog welcome: Bar area
- Food highlight: All-day food menu
- Real ales: Good selection
- Address: Main Street, Keswick
Ambleside Pubs
Ambleside sits at the head of Windermere and makes an excellent base for exploring the central Lakes. After walking Stock Ghyll Force or climbing Loughrigg Fell, these pubs will sort you out.
The Golden Rule
A hidden gem tucked away from the main street, this Grade II listed traditional pub is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
- Dog welcome: All areas, treats from bar for well-behaved dogs
- Food highlight: No food served (pub focuses on drinks)
- Real ales: Extensive range of cask beers, lagers, ciders
- Atmosphere: Traditional, quiet, proper pub
- Address: Smithy Brow, Ambleside, LA22 9AS
This is a pub for quiet enjoyment. Noisy dogs may be asked to leave, but well-behaved ones are genuinely welcome. A proper Lakeland drinking establishment.
The Wateredge Inn
Right on the shore of Windermere, this pub offers views, good food and genuine dog-friendliness.
- Dog welcome: Designated areas inside and out, water bowls provided
- Food highlight: Fresh fish, lakeside dining
- Real ales: Good selection
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, stunning location
- Address: Borrans Road, Ambleside, LA22 0EP
Perfect after a lakeside walk. Dogs receive biscuits from passing waiters if they wag convincingly enough.
The Lily Bar
A more contemporary option in the heart of Ambleside with a dog-friendly policy.
- Dog welcome: Throughout
- Food highlight: Local craft beers, modern menu
- Atmosphere: Contemporary, inviting
- Address: Lake Road, Ambleside
Stiles of Ambleside
A family-run coffee bar and B&B that's perfect for a post-walk caffeine hit.
- Dog welcome: Welcome with biscuits available
- Food highlight: Cumbrian-roasted coffee, homemade cake, Wallings Farm ice cream
- Address: Church Street, Ambleside
Grasmere Pubs
Grasmere is quintessential Lake District, home to Wordsworth and the famous gingerbread. After walking to Easedale Tarn or climbing Helm Crag, these pubs provide refuge.
Tweedies Bar
A local favourite with a spacious beer garden and relaxed atmosphere.
- Dog welcome: Throughout, water bowls and treats available
- Food highlight: Good pub menu
- Real ales: 17 unique craft ales and perries
- Atmosphere: Electric but informal
- Address: Red Lion Square, Grasmere, LA22 9SP
The extensive craft ale selection sets this apart.
The Good Sport
The village's newest pub, a stone's throw from Grasmere Brewery.
- Dog welcome: Throughout, water bowls and treats
- Food highlight: Food served from 8.30am
- Real ales: Full Grasmere Brewery range
- Atmosphere: Friendly, community-focused
- Address: Red Lion Square, Grasmere
The Traveller's Rest
On the A591 just north of Grasmere, this inn has served travellers for centuries.
- Dog welcome: Main bar area (not dining room), beer garden
- Food highlight: Traditional pub food
- Accommodation: Dog-friendly rooms available
- Address: A591, Grasmere, LA22 9RR
A good option if you're staying in a dog-friendly cottage nearby.
1769
A traditional style pub in the centre of Grasmere where dogs are warmly welcomed throughout, provided they're well-behaved.
Langdale Pubs
The Langdale valleys are serious walking country, home to some of the Lake District's most dramatic scenery and challenging walks. After tackling the Langdale Pikes or exploring this spectacular valley, these pubs reward your efforts with genuine character and proper refreshment. The pubs here have served climbers, walkers and their dogs for generations, and there's an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the Lakes.
Old Dungeon Ghyll
The legendary climbers' and walkers' pub at the head of Great Langdale. This is a pilgrimage destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and if you only visit one Lake District pub, many would argue it should be this one.
- Dog welcome: Walkers Bar (not lounge or dining room), dog-friendly rooms available
- Food highlight: Basic but excellent bar food, hearty portions that fill hungry walkers
- Real ales: At least 5 real ales at any time, constantly rotating
- Atmosphere: Spit and sawdust, authentic, lively, unchanged for decades
- Address: Great Langdale, LA22 9JY
- Live music: Regular folk sessions that bring the place alive
The Climbers Bar has a huge open fire in an old range, flagstone floors worn smooth by generations of boots, and an atmosphere that simply cannot be replicated. The Walmsley family have run the place since the 1980s and have preserved its character perfectly. This is what a Lake District pub should be. Dogs have been warming themselves here for generations, and the welcome remains as genuine as ever.
The food is intentionally basic: proper bar food designed to refuel rather than impress. That's not a criticism. After a day on the Langdale Pikes or Bow Fell, you want hearty portions and honest cooking, and that's exactly what you get.
Sticklebarn
A National Trust pub with a location that's hard to beat, right in the heart of the Langdales with views that justify the visit alone.
- Dog welcome: Inside and outside, welcome by fires, mud no problem
- Food highlight: Locally sourced, sustainability-focused menu
- Real ales: Good selection including local brews
- Atmosphere: Walkers' favourite, stunning terrace views of the Pikes
- Address: Great Langdale, LA22 9JU
The stone terrace offers unsurpassed views of the Langdale Pikes. On a clear day, sitting outside with a pint while your dog dries off is one of the great Lake District experiences. This pub has a two-star Sustainable Restaurant Association rating for its commitment to local sourcing and hydro-electric energy, so you can feel good about your patronage too.
The National Trust ownership means the character has been preserved while standards remain high. Dogs are welcomed as naturally as walkers, with water bowls and a relaxed attitude to the inevitable mud.
New Dungeon Ghyll
Next door to Sticklebarn but different from the Old Dungeon Ghyll.
- Dog welcome: Walkers bar, outdoor seating
- Food highlight: Soups, sandwiches, cooked meals
- Address: Great Langdale, LA22 9JX
Three Shires Inn
In Little Langdale, this pub welcomes wet dogs, muddy boots and weary walkers.
- Dog welcome: Throughout, dry off by the fire
- Food highlight: Great food, local real ales
- Atmosphere: Lovely views from garden and verandas
- Address: Little Langdale, LA22 9NZ
The sign says it welcomes muddy boots and wet dogs, and it means it.
Hawkshead and Coniston Pubs
The quieter southern Lakes around Coniston and Hawkshead offer character pubs with Beatrix Potter connections.
The Red Lion, Hawkshead
A handsome 15th-century pub next to the Beatrix Potter Gallery in the heart of traffic-free Hawkshead.
- Dog welcome: Bar area
- Food highlight: Quality pub food
- Atmosphere: Laid-back, beautiful interior
- Address: The Square, Hawkshead, LA22 0NZ
Perfectly positioned between Windermere and Coniston, ideal for exploring Tarn Hows.
Kings Arms, Hawkshead
- Dog welcome: Bar area, B&B rooms, self-catering annexe
- Food highlight: Really good food
- Real ales: Local selection
- Address: The Square, Hawkshead, LA22 0NZ
Queen's Head, Hawkshead
- Dog welcome: Snug rooms (limited space, booking recommended), treats available
- Address: Main Street, Hawkshead
Tower Bank Arms, Near Sawrey
This National Trust-owned pub features in Beatrix Potter's Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck.
- Dog welcome: Bar area, overnight in bedrooms at no extra charge
- Food highlight: Locally sourced food, Cumbrian ales
- Extras: Free dog treats on bar, water always available
- Address: Near Sawrey, LA22 0LF
Wonderful walks from the door, including to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's farmhouse.
The Ship Inn, Coniston
On the hill overlooking Coniston village, on the route of the Cumbrian Way.
- Dog welcome: Bar area, treats for well-behaved dogs
- Food highlight: Ploughman's lunch, pub classics
- Real ales: Robinson's ales
- Atmosphere: Roaring log fire, local favourite
- Address: Tilberthwaite Avenue, Coniston, LA21 8HH
Perfect after climbing the Old Man of Coniston.
The Coniston Inn
- Dog welcome: Complimentary dog treats, water bowls, friendly staff
- Food highlight: Seasonal pub classics menu
- Address: Tilberthwaite Avenue, Coniston
The Sun Hotel, Coniston
A traditional Lakeland inn with stunning views.
- Dog welcome: Bar area
- Food highlight: Donald Campbell suite restaurant
- Address: Coniston, LA21 8HQ
Buttermere Pubs
After walking the Buttermere circuit or climbing the surrounding fells, these pubs in one of the Lake District's most beautiful valleys await.
The Bridge Hotel
The Walkers Bar welcomes hiking humans and their hounds.
- Dog welcome: Walkers Bar, recently refurbished rooms
- Food highlight: Good pub food
- Real ales: Local selection
- Address: Buttermere, CA13 9UZ
The views of the Buttermere Round from here are exceptional.
The Fish Hotel
- Dog welcome: Bar area
- Food highlight: Traditional Lakeland fare
- Address: Buttermere, CA13 9XA
Both Buttermere pubs make excellent bases for exploring this quieter corner of the Lakes.
Ullswater Pubs
After visiting Aira Force or walking along the shores of beautiful Ullswater, these pubs refresh.
The Patterdale Hotel
In the village at the southern end of Ullswater.
- Dog welcome: Bar areas
- Food highlight: Traditional fare
- Address: Patterdale, CA11 0NN
The White Lion, Patterdale
- Dog welcome: Throughout
- Address: Patterdale
Remote and Special Pubs
Some Lake District pubs are worth the journey themselves.
The Woolpack Inn, Eskdale
Beautifully located at the top of the Eskdale Valley and the foot of Hardknott Pass.
- Dog welcome: Throughout, guest rooms, shop, cafe
- Food highlight: Wood-fired pizzas, Cumbrian Tatie Pot, vegan options
- Real ales: CAMRA Cider Pub of the Year (multiple times)
- Address: Eskdale, CA19 1TH
Worth the scenic drive through one of the most beautiful valleys in the Lakes.
The Ratty Arms, Ravenglass
Named after the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (La'al Ratty), this pub sits in the only coastal village in the Lake District National Park.
- Dog welcome: Yes
- Food highlight: Traditional pub food
- Location: Near Ravenglass beach
- Address: Ravenglass, CA18 1SN
Combine with a ride on the dog-friendly miniature railway.
The Drunken Duck Inn
Set on a crossroads between Ambleside and Hawkshead with far-reaching views over the Lake District fells.
- Dog welcome: Bar area and terrace (not restaurant)
- Food highlight: Sophisticated dining, own micro-brewery
- Real ales: House-brewed ales
- Atmosphere: Famous, often fully booked
- Address: Barngates, Ambleside, LA22 0NG
This 300-year-old inn is one of the most famous in the Lakes. Perfect after walking Tarn Hows.
Queen's Head, Troutbeck
A pub that sets tails wagging with its own dog menu.
- Dog welcome: Bar area, special dog menu
- Dog menu: Minced lamb with potato and gravy, chipolata sausages, white fish pieces, chicken breast pieces
- Food highlight: Quality gastro pub food for humans too
- Address: Troutbeck, LA23 1PW
One of the most dog-friendly pubs we've encountered anywhere.
George and Dragon, Clifton
Near Penrith, one of the most genuinely dog-friendly pubs in the region.
- Dog welcome: Throughout
- Food highlight: Forages and grows most food from nearby Askham Hall gardens
- Must-try: Mushroom and garlic soup, Lowther venison ragu, Helton rough fell lamb Sunday roast
- Address: Clifton, Penrith, CA10 2ER
What to Expect
Typical Dog Policies
Most Lake District pubs follow similar patterns, though there's variation:
Bar areas: Almost universally dog-friendly. This is where walkers gather, floors are designed for muddy boots, and dogs are expected.
Restaurants and dining rooms: Often dog-free to accommodate diners who prefer to eat without dogs present. However, food is usually available in bar areas too.
Beer gardens: Almost always dog-friendly, often the most relaxed areas in summer.
Water and treats: Most pubs provide water bowls. Many have treats available, sometimes with a donation box for mountain rescue or animal charities.
Leads: Appreciated in busy areas but rarely strictly enforced for well-behaved dogs.
Multiple dogs: Generally accepted, though very large groups might raise eyebrows.
Etiquette Tips
To ensure a warm welcome for all dog owners who follow:
- Give your dog a quick towel-down before entering (most pubs understand mud, but a token effort is appreciated)
- Keep your dog under control and out of other diners' way
- Don't let your dog beg from other tables
- Clear up any accidents immediately
- Ask before assuming dogs can go everywhere
- Keep dogs on leads in busy areas or if they're excitable
Booking Recommendations
Popular pubs, especially for food, can fill quickly. If you're planning a meal rather than just drinks:
- Book ahead for weekend lunches (Friday to Sunday especially)
- Mention you have a dog when booking
- Request a table in the dog-friendly area
- Be flexible with times, as dog-friendly spaces may be limited
- For evening meals, book well in advance for popular pubs like the Drunken Duck
Seasonal Considerations
Winter: The best season for pub atmosphere. Dogs curl up by fires, the cosy atmosphere is at its peak, pubs are quieter midweek, and there's nothing better than coming in from a wet fell walk to a warm welcome.
Summer: Beer gardens come into their own. Pubs may be busier with tourists, but outdoor spaces offer more room. Water is essential for dogs in warm weather.
Spring and autumn: Shoulder seasons offer the best of both worlds. Spring sees longer evenings; autumn brings spectacular colours on walks before a pub stop.
Wet days: Lake District pubs fill quickly when weather drives walkers off the fells. Arrive early for the best seats by the fire.
Pubs by Walk
After Catbells: Dog and Gun or Wainwright, Keswick
After Tarn Hows: Drunken Duck Inn, Red Lion Hawkshead
After Buttermere circuit: Bridge Hotel or Fish Hotel, Buttermere
After Langdale Pikes: Old Dungeon Ghyll, Sticklebarn
After Loughrigg Fell: Golden Rule, Wateredge Inn, Ambleside
After Helm Crag: Tweedies, Good Sport, Grasmere
After Aira Force: Patterdale Hotel
After Old Man of Coniston: Ship Inn, Sun Hotel, Coniston
Book Your Stay
Planning a Lake District pub crawl with your dog? Find accommodation near the best pubs.
Book Your Dog-Friendly Lake District Stay
Many pubs listed here also offer dog-friendly accommodation, combining great food and drink with a comfortable bed for you and your dog. For more independence, explore our guide to dog-friendly cottages in the Lake District.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed in Lake District pubs?
+Do Lake District pubs provide water bowls for dogs?
+Can I eat with my dog in Lake District pubs?
+Which Lake District pub has a dog menu?
+Are muddy dogs welcome in Lake District pubs?
+What's the most dog-friendly pub in the Lake District?
+Can I stay overnight with my dog at Lake District pubs?
+Which pubs are near good dog walks?
+Final Thoughts
A Lake District walk isn't complete without a pub stop. Whether you're looking for a legendary walkers' inn with a roaring fire and basic bar food, a sophisticated gastro pub with locally foraged ingredients, or simply a quiet pint in a traditional local, there's a dog-friendly pub waiting.
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have their favourites. The Old Dungeon Ghyll for atmosphere, the Queen's Head for the dog menu, the Golden Rule for a proper quiet pint. But really, we've never had a bad experience in a Lake District pub. The welcome is genuine, the fires are warm, and dogs are treated as the valued visitors they are.
Happy drinking (responsibly).
Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke
Continue Planning Your Trip
Discover more Lake District adventures: best walks, lakeside beaches, attractions and accommodation.
For dog-friendly pubs elsewhere in the UK, explore our guides to Cornwall, Yorkshire, and Scotland.
Last updated: December 2024
Opening hours, menus and dog policies can change. We recommend calling ahead to confirm current arrangements, especially if travelling specifically for a particular pub.
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