Ever fancied taking your pet on a tour of the Lakes? The Lake District National Park remains one of the most fascinating holiday hotspots for families and dog lovers alike, and that’s largely thanks to the amazing waterside walks and near endless stretches of greenery. We really wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to take a look for pubs that take dogs in the region, too!
7 of the Best Dog Friendly Pubs in Windermere
Dog pubs in and around Windermere as well as the wider Lake District are becoming more and more commonplace. The fact is, Windermere is a holiday hotspot for dog walkers, meaning that many publicans have recognised that there’s a definite niche for relaxing with pups in the local area! The Lake District – whether it is Windermere, Ambleside, Coniston Water or elsewhere – is rife for adventures both on green, dry land as well as on the water.
What we really love about Windermere and its surrounding area is the fact that there are near endless opportunities for walking dogs. The lovely village scenery here is also worthy of note, meaning that you’ll likely be able to take in more than a few quaint shops and market scenes while hunting down ideal Windermere pubs that allow dogs.
The best dog friendly pub for us is one which not only allows pets in to enjoy the ambience, but which also offers lots of fresh water and treats, too! Believe it or not, there are actually plenty of pubs out there which go all out to offer the same level of hospitality to dogs as they do to people!
Keep reading and you’ll be able to find out more about our favourite pub grub and drinking spots ideal for dog lovers across Windermere. It is always a good idea to try and plan ahead! Thankfully, you probably won’t have to look too far, with or without our help in the bargain – take a look at Windermere pubs that allow dogs.
Our Top 7 Choices
Find below 7 of the best pet friendly pubs in Windermere.
1. The Wild Boar
The Wild Boar is actually a lovely hotel spot that offers opulent rooms and which actively and openly welcomes dogs! There are 34 bedrooms available to book here, but even if you just want to pop in for a quick drink with your pet, you can. There is a restaurant attached to the main bar, and there’s also a private woodland spot owned by the Hotel itself! What’s more, the Wild Boar is in a fantastic, peaceful location, based close to Low Wood Bay and its boating spot. Great for popping in after long dog walks around the lakes.
2. The Britannia Inn
The Britannia Inn is technically nestled in the heart of Elswater, just a short journey from Windermere. This spectacular, authentic pub and inn offers an amazing amount of space for walkers and their dogs, with a brilliant beer garden available for you and your pet to enjoy on sunnier days. Many feel that the Britannia is a wonderful starting point for all kinds of Lake District and Windermere adventuring, and that’s both thanks to the warm welcome as much as the awesome ambience.
3. The Cuckoo Brow Inn
The Cuckoo Brow Inn is a pet friendly pub spot that’s also a lovely hotel, specifically claiming that it welcomes ‘wet dogs and muddy boots’! Therefore, it’s a great, natural, country escape that really does blend in well with the local environment and surroundings. It’s well-recognised as one of the finer pubs in its line, offering B&B services as well as clear access to both Windermere and Ambleside. It’s even been shortlisted for Cumbria Tourism awards in the past! Come on down for a warm welcome and fantastic lakeside ambience.
4. The Black Labrador
Based close to Windermere in Underbarrow, this spacious, rustic pub location offers a bit of a secret nook for dog lovers in the area. In fact, the clue’s in the name – they really do love dogs here! Backing onto the stunning walks around the Lyth Valley, this location has recently undergone renovations. It looks absolutely stunning – there’s also plenty of local fare on the menu here, and your pets are always welcome in the bar, meaning you can easily grab some fresh water for them to cool down with.
5. The Golden Rule
The Golden Rule, based in Ambleside, is a local Robinson’s pub, and is a stunning Grade II listed property. Dogs are welcome here regardless of size or breed! It’s got a large beer garden for you and your pet to enjoy, and as it’s part of a wider chain, you can expect some popular drinks and brewery connections here, too. It’s considered something of a secret getaway in the nooks and crannies of Ambleside, making it easy to get to and from Windermere along the way.
6. The Flying Pig
This cracking pub (with a ‘crackling’ name) serves up cask ales and local food in the heart of Bowness, which of course sits right at the edge of Windermere! This fabulous location serves up al fresco drinking and dining, and of course, you can bring a pet along to enjoy the warm fire as well as the even warmer welcome. What’s not to love? The Flying Pig has dog biscuits on the bar as well as fresh water to go whenever you and your pets fancy popping in for a look around.
7. The Brookside Inn
Based in Windermere itself, the Brookside is a large, wonderfully-presented pub with a traditional atmosphere, fresh food, and plenty of welcoming space for dogs and their owners. This is a quintessential British pub breakaway spot, easy to get to after walking alongside the lake edges and taking a closer look at the local greenery. The Brookside is also well-known for its events and entertainment, with quiz nights here every Thursday. These are just a few of the pubs in the area, and there are also a number of pet friendly days out in Windermere that are well worth checking out.
Last Word
Lake Windermere is just one of several beautiful spots, with a number of the best dog walks in Windermere that are begging to be explored by dogs and their owners. Why not make sure to take a look for pubs in the region where you can take the time to sit back and relax with your four legged friend? As it turns out, there are plenty of dog friendly Windermere cottages which you can use as a base to explore this majestic area.
Do you have a dog-friendly pub? Why not get in touch – we might be able to add you to our growing list of Windermere dog friendly pubs.