Keswick Adventures Blog

News and information about our activities and the local area

The Best 10 Pubs in Keswick

beer-glass Pint glass of beer on a bar in a pub

After a day of outdoor adventures in the Lake District, what could be better than heading to a local pub, ordering some food and drink, and sitting back to discuss your day with your mates or family? 

Fortunately, Keswick has plenty of pubs to choose from. From the small and friendly, to the large and buzzing, there will always be something to whet your appetite!

Book your outdoor adventure and then take a look at our guide to the best pubs in Keswick for your post-activity drinks.


1. The Bank Tavern

With a well stocked bar and centrally located in Keswick, The Bank Tavern offers plenty of choice in both its food and its drinks. The pub is one of the oldest in Keswick and is full of character. It's the perfect place to go if you're looking for that traditional pub feel.

2. The Wainwright Pub

Runners up in the West Cumbria branch of the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Pub of The Year awards 2016, The Wainwright is a small but lovely pub at the end of the pedestrianised area of Keswick. Sit with your drinks and enjoy retro footage of some local walks showing on the TV.

3. The Dog and Gun

If you're in Keswick with your dogs, then you'll want to head to The Dog and Gun. Although all these pubs are dog friendly, the Dog and Gun says it in the name and you'll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The piece-de-resistance is their famous Hungarian goulash – wash it down with one of the real ales from their large selection!

4. The Pack Horse Inn

If you're still pumped from your day's outdoor adventures and are looking to keep the energy up, then try a live music night at The Pack Horse Inn. Even without the music, the atmosphere is great in this traditional-style pub with its open fire, great food, and large selection of beers, wines and Prosecco.

5. The Pocket

Offering something a little bit different in Keswick, The Pocket is all about the music. The café bar serves a mix of local ales, Belgian beers, gins and wines. There's live music from local performers every Friday evening, an Open Mic night every Monday from 8pm, and an Unplugged Jam Session on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Enjoy all this music while you munch on one of The Pocket's tasty homemade pizzas.

6. The George

The George is a lovely traditional pub and the oldest coaching inn in Keswick. Serving great beers and highly rated food, it's noted for its incredibly welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff.

7. The Crafty Baa

If you're looking for somewhere a little bit quirky, then check out The Crafty Baa. Full of interesting knick-knacks, friendly staff, and a good range of craft beers, it's everything you need for an atmospheric afternoon or evening. They've also recently been named AA Best Pub of the Year!

8. The Lion

Right in the centre of Keswick, The Lion is very proud of its delicious Sunday roasts. If you're not there on a Sunday, though, never fear, they serve good food throughout the week, too! With traditional pub grub, a weekly quiz, and regular live music it's the perfect local.

9. The Back Bar

Head to The Back Bar to catch the night's game or to just enjoy some delicious fish 'n' chips. Part of the imposing Inn on the Square, The Back Bar is a comfy space for a game of pool or darts, a meal with the family, or a couple of drinks with friends. Perfect for a laid-back night out.

10. The Fox Tap

Part of the Keswick Brewing Co., The Fox Tap serves home-brewed beers in an excellent atmosphere. Their monthly Brewery Socials are a great excuse to enjoy a friendly drink and some street food, but any day of the month is ideal for a visit! You can also take a tour of the brewery and, if you sup on something you love, buy your own souvenir bottles from their shop.

Bonus: Craft Beer Keswick

Okay, we know this one isn't a pub, but we had to give a shout-out to Craft Beer Keswick, partly because they sell our very own Keswick Adventures Ale! But they're also a fantastic spot in Keswick to pick up some bottles from their incredible range of craft beers. They also run regular Beer Tasting & Meet the Brewer evenings, Take Over events, and music evenings.

When you've had an exciting day out on the water or in the fells on our outdoor adventures, you'll be ready to kick back and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, local beers, and delicious food of the Keswick pubs.


The Best Outdoor Activities in the Lake District
Keswick Adventures Ale: A Beer for your Adventure