Lake District walks with pubs: 5 scenic trails that end with a pint
What better way to finish a walk than with a well-earned pint in a cosy inn?
Whether you're a seasoned fell-walker or just fancy a gentle lakeside stroll, here are five Lake District walks with pubs at the end (or en route!)—perfect for a day of hiking.
Walk time: 1.5–2 hours | Difficulty: Easy
Buttermere is a beautiful place for a walk (Image: Newsquest) The Buttermere loop is one of the Lake District's best beginner-friendly walks, circling a tranquil lake with views of Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike.
Afterwards, head to The Bridge Hotel, a traditional pub serving real ales and hearty Lakeland fare.
The Bridge Hotel is a classic walker's pub with character—think slate floors, hearty food, and open fires.
In the summer, its riverside beer garden is one of the most peaceful places to unwind with a pint.
You can even sit outside with a pint and watch the sunset over the fells, a perfect end to a wholesome day.
Walk time: 2–3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Catbells (Image: Supplied) Climbing Catbells gives you one of the most rewarding views for minimal effort. The short but steep ridge walk is a classic.
Catbells offers a short but exhilarating ridge walk with stunning views over Derwentwater and Borrowdale. It's a perfect intro to fell walking.
Afterwards, make your way into Keswick and reward yourself with a pint of real ale and a hearty pub meal at the Dog & Gun, one of the town's most popular pubs with walkers.
Walk time: 2.5 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Helm Crag (Image: French and Lamming Media)This iconic walk starts in Grasmere and takes you up Helm Crag, known for its quirky rock formations.
Once you're down, make your way to Tweedies Bar, a relaxed and walker-friendly pub.
Tweedies Bar, part of the Dale Lodge Hotel, is one of Grasmere's best spots for craft beer lovers. It boasts over 15 taps, live music at weekends, and seasonal menus that champion local produce.
Their beer garden is perfect, particularly for a relaxing pint on a summer day.
Walk time: 1.5 hours (each way) | Difficulty: Easy
The Britannia Inn at Elterwater (Image: Karl Hillman)This riverside walk follows Langdale Beck past waterfalls and ancient woodland, finishing at Skelwith Force. Ideal for families or dog walkers.
You can choose to stop at Chesters by the River for amazing cakes and coffee or opt for a pint and classic pub food at the Britannia Inn in Elterwater.
Ideal for a relaxed day out through the summer holidays, as you try tire your children out.
Walk time: 3–4 hours | Difficulty: Challenging
The Black Bull Inn is perfect after completing the Old Man of Coniston (Image: Black Bull Inn) The Old Man of Coniston is one of the most climbed fells in the region, with industrial heritage, mountain tarns, and panoramic views from the summit.
After descending, you can relax at The Black Bull Inn, famous for housing the Coniston Brewing Co.
After conquering the fell, the pub's hearty meals and lakeside views will feel richly earned.
Try a pint of Bluebird Bitter, brewed just yards from your table.
The Lake District is built for walkers—and it's also home to one of the UK's strongest traditions of pub culture and local brewing.
Many of these inns and taverns date back centuries, offering historic charm alongside excellent food, open fires, and local ale.
Whether you're looking for dog-friendly spots, child-friendly meals, or vegan craft beer, there's a pub at the end of every worthwhile trail here.
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