The best Bowness on winderemere pubs

Pubs with a View in Bowness-on-Windermere

Nestled on the eastern edge of the magnificent Lake Windermere, the vibrant village of Bowness-on-Windermere stands out as a prime destination for pubs that offer more than just exceptional food and drink; they provide unparalleled panoramic views of England's largest natural lake.  

Lake View Garden Bar lives up to its name by providing truly spectacular vistas of Lake Windermere, elevating the pub experience in every sense. This establishment has garnered national recognition, having been crowned the "Best Beer Garden in the UK," making it an idyllic setting to savour a drink under the Lakeland sunshine. Beyond the stunning views, the Lake View Garden Bar boasts an extensive selection of beverages, including locally brewed craft beers, expertly mixed cocktails, and a refined wine list, all complemented by a menu featuring beloved pub classics and seasonal culinary creations. Families and their four-legged companions are warmly welcomed here, with dedicated children's menus and convenient dog water stations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone. The addition of live music and entertainment on weekends further enhances its appeal as a lively and engaging lakeside destination. This national accolade for its beer garden highlights the significance of outdoor spaces and scenic views for those visiting Windermere pubs. The emphasis on accommodating families and dog owners also reflects the key demographics of tourists in the region.  

For an even more immersive experience with the lake, Quayside's Lake View Pub is uniquely positioned directly on the shores of Windermere, offering breathtaking views right from your table. This welcoming Lakeland pub takes pride in offering excellent value and reasonably priced drinks, ensuring a relaxed and accessible experience for all who visit. Their menu showcases a delightful fusion of traditional British fare and contemporary pub cuisine, with a strong emphasis on homecooked and seasonally inspired dishes. With its spacious interior and a dog-friendly beer garden, it serves as an ideal spot for a casual afternoon drink, a leisurely lunch, or a memorable evening out. Quayside's unparalleled access to the lake positions it as a top choice for those seeking the quintessential Windermere lakeside pub experience. The focus on affordability makes it an attractive option for visitors mindful of their budget.  

Nestled right by the lake at Gilly's Landing, Boardwalk Bar & Grill provides breathtaking panoramic views that can be enjoyed while indulging in freshly prepared and delicious food. Its recognition by Tripadvisor as one of the top 10 pet-friendly restaurants worldwide underscores its inviting atmosphere for visitors travelling with their canine companions. With a commitment to quality and a new summer menu featuring signature dishes and expertly prepared dry-aged beef, Boardwalk Bar & Grill promises a dining experience to remember, all set against an unbeatable backdrop. The global recognition for its pet-friendliness, combined with its stunning lake views and high-quality food, suggests that Boardwalk Bar & Grill sets a high standard for a specific segment of tourists.  

Traditional Pub Charm in Bowness

Beyond the captivating lake vistas, Bowness is also home to a collection of pubs steeped in history and tradition, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly embodies the classic British pub experience.  

Hole in t' Wall, proudly holding the title of the oldest pub in Bowness with roots tracing back to 1612, exudes an undeniable old-world charm and character in every corner. Its fascinating history, including the well-known tale of the neighbouring blacksmith who had a hole created in the wall to conveniently receive his ale, adds to its unique allure. Even renowned literary figures like Charles Dickens are believed to have enjoyed its hospitality. Today, it continues to offer a wide selection of Robinsons' well-regarded real ales and hearty pub fare in a welcoming and friendly environment, complete with a comforting open fire. Its heated patio and beer garden extend the welcome to dogs, making it a perfect stop for everyone. Recently honoured as the "Cosiest Pub in Britain," Hole in t' Wall stands as a true Lakeland institution. The longevity and historical anecdotes associated with Hole in t' Wall establish it as a significant cultural landmark within Bowness, attracting visitors seeking an authentic and cosy traditional pub experience. The national "cosiest pub" award further reinforces this reputation.  

Located in the very heart of Bowness-on-Windermere, The Albert consistently proves to be a popular choice for both local residents and visiting tourists. As a Robinsons Brewery establishment, it boasts a fine array of their highly regarded real ales. The menu presents a diverse range of options, from traditional pub classics to more contemporary culinary creations, with excellent choices available for vegetarians and those with gluten-free dietary requirements. Featuring a spacious outdoor area, partially covered to accommodate all weather conditions, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink regardless of the forecast. The Albert also offers comfortable overnight accommodation and hosts lively live music and engaging bingo nights, providing entertainment that extends beyond just food and drink. Its convenient location places it near popular attractions such as the World of Beatrix Potter. The central location and diverse offerings of The Albert, encompassing food, drink, accommodation, and entertainment, make it a versatile and appealing option for a wide range of visitors. Its association with Robinsons Brewery ensures a reliable selection of traditional ales.  

Having opened its doors in 2015, The Flying Pig has quickly become a beloved traditional family-friendly Lakeland pub situated in the heart of Bowness. Its name playfully references the notion that finding excellent British pub food is a rarity, a challenge the owners have successfully overcome by focusing on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus. Alongside a fantastic selection of local real ales, they also offer a curated list of fine wines and premium lagers and ciders. The inviting and cosy atmosphere, complete with a warming real log fire, makes it a welcoming destination throughout the year. Its proximity to popular walking routes and its dog-friendly policy further enhance its appeal. The relatively recent establishment of The Flying Pig, coupled with its strong commitment to traditional pub values and its family-friendly and dog-friendly approach, demonstrates a successful adaptation to the modern tourist landscape while preserving classic charm.  

With a rich history spanning over 200 years in the heart of Bowness, The Royal Oak Inn stands as a true traditional Lake District Inn. Family-run since 1995, it also serves as the official finishing point for the renowned Dales Way Walk, offering a warm welcome to weary hikers seeking a well-deserved pint. Inside, guests are greeted by cosy interiors featuring inviting open fires and rustic exposed beams, creating a truly Lakeland ambiance. As a proud member of CAMRA, they serve a selection of quality real ales from across the UK, ensuring a delightful experience for ale enthusiasts. The Royal Oak also provides comfortable rooms for those wishing to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the Bowness experience. The long history of The Royal Oak Inn and its designation as the Dales Way finishing point give it a unique identity, attracting both casual visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. Its CAMRA membership underscores its dedication to serving high-quality real ale.  

Windermere Town's Hidden Gems

While Bowness often captures much of the attention, the town of Windermere itself also boasts several charming and noteworthy pubs, often offering a more intimate and local atmosphere.  

Nestled in the heart of Windermere town, The Crafty Baa is a true hidden gem, celebrated for its uniquely quirky and characterful ambiance. Opened in 2016 within a transformed second-hand bookshop, its decor predominantly features recycled and upcycled materials, including a distinctive bar crafted from repurposed pallet boxes. Winner of the prestigious AA Pub of the Year (England) award for 2018-19, it stands as a haven for craft beer enthusiasts, offering an impressive selection of over 100 bottled craft beers from around the globe, alongside a carefully curated range of real ales and ciders. With over 70 wines and 100 whiskies also available, there's a drink to satisfy every palate. The Crafty Baa warmly welcomes both dogs and children and frequently hosts live music performances, creating a vibrant and inclusive space. It's even rumoured to be the smallest pub in the Lake District, adding to its distinctive charm. The unique origin of The Crafty Baa, its award-winning status, and its extensive drink selection, particularly its focus on craft beers, make it a destination pub for those seeking an experience beyond the ordinary. Its commitment to upcycled decor also adds an environmentally conscious element.  

Part of the Grey Walls Hotel in Windermere, The Greys Inn is a lively and welcoming pub that enjoys popularity among local residents. It provides a variety of entertainment options, including engaging quiz nights, live music performances, and screenings of sporting events, making it a central hub for the local community. The Greys Inn serves as a testament to the fact that Windermere town has its own vibrant pub scene that caters to locals, often with a focus on entertainment and fostering a sense of community.  

Food and Drink Highlights

Beyond the atmosphere and the views, the pubs of Windermere also present a diverse culinary landscape, ranging from comforting traditional pub grub to more refined gastropub offerings.  

While technically located in nearby Ambleside, The Drunken Duck Inn is an essential mention for any dedicated pub enthusiast visiting Windermere. Consistently ranked among the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK, it offers a menu of classic British dishes with innovative twists, alongside its own excellent ales brewed at the on-site Barngates Brewery. The proximity of highly-regarded gastropubs like The Drunken Duck in nearby Ambleside expands the culinary options for visitors staying in Windermere. The presence of its own brewery adds a unique draw for beer enthusiasts.  

For a quintessential British pub experience, many establishments in Windermere excel at the traditional Sunday roast. The Angel Inn, The Lamplighter Dining Rooms, The Albert, and Lake View Garden Bar are just a few that come highly recommended for this beloved meal. The prominence of Sunday roast recommendations highlights its enduring popularity as a key feature of the British pub experience in Windermere.  

From the Robinsons Brewery ales found at The Albert and Hole in t' Wall to the extensive craft beer selection at The Crafty Baa and the locally brewed offerings at The Watermill Inn & Brewery (located in nearby Ings), beer lovers will find a wealth of options to explore in Windermere. The strong presence of both traditional real ales and a growing craft beer scene indicates a diverse and evolving drinks culture within Windermere pubs.  

For those with a fondness for spirits, pubs such as The Crafty Baa, with its impressive collection of over 100 whiskies and numerous gins, and The Brown Horse Inn in Winster, renowned for its extraordinary gin collection, offer a delightful array of choices. The availability of extensive gin and whisky collections in certain pubs suggests a trend towards offering a wider range of premium beverages beyond just beer and wine.  

Dog-Friendly Options

The Lake District is a renowned haven for dog walkers, and fortunately, numerous pubs in Windermere and Bowness extend a warm welcome to four-legged companions. From The Flying Pig and The Albert in Bowness to The Crafty Baa in Windermere town and The Mortal Man in Troutbeck, visitors will find many establishments where their canine friends can comfortably relax by a crackling fire or enjoy the open air of a beer garden. Many of these pubs even go the extra mile by providing dog treats and water bowls, ensuring a pleasant experience for every member of the party. The sheer number of mentions of dog-friendly pubs across the available information underscores the importance of catering to dog owners in the Windermere area, reflecting a significant portion of the tourist demographic.  

Atmosphere of Windermere Pubs

The ambiance across Windermere's pubs is as varied as their offerings. Visitors can discover the quintessential cosy traditional pub, complete with inviting roaring log fires, in establishments like Hole in t' Wall and The Royal Oak Inn, creating the perfect setting for a chilly Lakeland evening. Other pubs, such as Lake View Garden Bar and Quayside's Lake View Pub, provide a more vibrant and airy atmosphere, fully capitalizing on their stunning lakeside locations. For a truly distinctive experience, The Crafty Baa stands out with its quirky and eclectic decor, thoughtfully created from upcycled materials, giving it a unique character all its own. Whether seeking a lively spot for entertainment or a quiet corner for contemplation, Windermere's pubs cater to a diverse range of moods and preferences. The diverse range of atmospheres available in Windermere pubs ensures that visitors can find an establishment that perfectly matches their desired experience, whether it's traditional cosiness, vibrant lakeside views, or unique quirkiness.  

Conclusion

From historic inns echoing with tales of the past and gastropubs serving innovative culinary creations to lakeside bars offering breathtaking panoramic views, Windermere presents an exceptional and diverse pub scene. Whether you are a local resident in search of your new favourite haunt or a visitor eager to experience the renowned hospitality of the Lake District, the welcoming pubs of Windermere are poised to offer you a truly memorable experience. So, make your choice, raise a glass to the stunning scenery and the warm atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the best of Windermere's vibrant pub culture.