We love to sink our teeth into a stacked burger after a long day of outdoor adventure activities in the Lake District. Sitting down with friends and family, supplied with a burger and chips, we can happily discuss all the finer points of the day. Whether that’s laughing at someone who fell off his kayak, or applauding the one member of your party who took a step out of their comfort down and leapt off a waterfall, there’s always something to discuss.

There are plenty of places to get a great burger in Keswick: here are our top picks. 

The Round

Number one for burgers in Keswick has to be The Round. The burger and cocktail bar is a vibrant spot in the heart of town. The atmosphere is always buzzing and everything on the menu is spot on. Pick from a selection of amazing gourmet burgers with names inspired by the Lake District, all made from local Cumbrian produce. On the side, you can enjoy an expertly made cocktail, or something from the bar. If this all sounds delicious to you, but you fancy a night in, The Round also offers a takeaway option.

Location: 21 Main Street, Keswick
Food orders: Mon - Fri, 4pm - 9pm; Sat, 12pm - 9pm
Dogs welcome

Merienda

The tiny café-restaurant that is Merienda sits in the main pedestriansed area of Keswick. Small and unassuming, you may walk right past it if you’re not careful. Pop inside for a warm welcome, relaxed atmosphere and - of course - some delicious burgers! The menu changes regularly to use seasonal produce, so you may not always find the same choice. But that’s just a great chance to try something new. Nothing at Merienda is done half-heartedly, and you’ll be delighted with the tasty twists on their current burgers.

Location: 10 Main Street, Keswick
Food orders: Mon - Sat, 8am - 9pm; Sun, 9am-9pm
Dogs welcome

The Pack Horse Inn

The Pack Horse Inn is one of Keswick’s oldest pubs, dating back to the 17^th century. This traditional inn retains loads of its character and a real pub feel, with wooden beams and flagged floors. On the menu you’ll see the usual pub fare, including an juicy cheeseburger with optional extras. The portions are generous, the food is tasty, and the drinks wash it all down very nicely! Go on the right evening and you can enjoy some local live music or a pub quiz.

Location: Pack Horse Court, Keswick
Food orders: Daily, 12pm - 9.30pm
Dogs welcome

Plant by Kat’s Kitchen

Kat’s Kitchen is one of the Lake District’s premium vegan restaurants and cafés. And meat-eaters will love their veggie burgers too! Everything on the menu is plant-based, and visitors rave about the amazing burgers with everything from ‘bacon’ to ‘sheese’. Go for the all-American option and order a vegan milkshake on the side.

Kat’s Kitchen is a small spot, so book in advance or be prepared to wait. We promise it will be worth it! Takeaway is also available using their biodegradeable and eco-friendly packaging.

Location: 135 Main Street, Keswick
Food orders: Thu - Sat, 12pm - 8.30pm; Sun, 12pm - 4pm
Dogs welcome downstairs

Derwent Walker

This cocktail bar and restaurant offers so-called ‘micro-dining’, with small tapas dishes that allow you to try more than one mini meal at a time. And you’ll be glad of the opportunity due to the amount of flavoursome treats on offer! Taking the star position for this list is the mini burger trio, with beef, minted lamb and Cajun chicken providing a taste sensation! There are vegan alternatives available too. There’s also an occasional Korean burger on the menu: catch it if you can!

Location: 19 Lake Road, Keswick
Food orders: Tue - Sat, 4pm - 10pm
Dogs welcome

The Wainwright

If you like to DIY your burger with all the best bits, then The Wainwright’s ‘build your own’ burger is just the ticket. Including meat and vegetarian options, you can add everything from cheese and bacon to onion rings and jalapeño jam. This popular option is favoured amongst visitors to the CAMRA pub. Munch away while you watch the reels on the wall showing local walks up the hills.

Location: Lake Road, Keswick
Food orders: Daily, 12pm - 9pm (closed Mon - Thu between 3pm and 5pm during low season)
Dogs welcome

Thyme Bistro

Tucked away down a quiet side street, Thyme Bistro is considered one of the best restaurants in Keswick. Its relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff and modern décor make it the perfect place for a meal after a day out in the Lake District. They have a small but wonderful choice of gourmet burgers prepared fresh and piled high. We recommend their own special Thyme Burger with caramelised onions, sautéed mushrooms, bacon and BBQ sauce. Delicious!

Location: 6 Museum Square, Keswick
Food orders: Mon - Thu, 5pm - 9.30pm