Who doesn’t love a great beer garden? Sitting outside a proper pub with a drink and a bite to eat is one of life’s great joys, but finding the perfect beer garden can be tricky. So, we’re sharing our top picks for the best beer gardens in and around the Lake District.
Location: Helm Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District, LA23 3BU
📞: 01539 444 080
📧: [email protected]
You’ll find The Angel Inn just a stone's throw away from the shores of Lake Windermere. The beer garden boasts breathtaking views of the lake, Claife Heights, and the Langdale Pikes. It’s the perfect place to rest with a glass of your favourite tipple with loved ones after a long walk around the Lake District. Or you could make a day out of your trip to The Angel Inn and tuck into a pub lunch or Sunday roast with all the trimmings in the garden, while watching the world go by.
Location: The Canal Tow Path, Aldcliffe Road, Lancaster, LA1 1SU
📞: 01524 63828
📧: [email protected]
When it comes to pubs with a view, you really can’t beat the multi-award-winning Water Witch. The pub was originally converted from purpose-built stables in 1978 and offers front row seats to the picturesque Lancaster canal. With plenty of seats to choose from, you and your party can be within touching distance of the water. The team at Water Witch prides themselves on serving local products wherever they can. Over 70% of their ales come from breweries less than 50 miles away, so you’re guaranteed a refreshing pint when you visit. Whether you opt to enjoy a catch-up over a glass of wine with friends or tuck into a delicious celebratory meal, a seat outside Water Witch will make any occasion one to remember.
Location: The Highwayman Inn, Exlade Street, Checkendon, RG8 0UA
📞: 01491 682 020
📧: [email protected]
If you’re looking for the perfect spot for some al-fresco dining, then The Highway Man Inn is the place to be. On the menu, you’ll find an array of pub classics, including beer-battered haddock and chips, homemade pies, and sticky toffee pudding. The large beer garden has plenty of seating where you can unwind and take in the scenery of the Chiltern Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Nothing quite beats a relaxing evening while watching the sunset over the rolling hills at The Highway Man Inn.
Location: Rydal, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9LR
📞: 01539 434 500
📧: [email protected]
The Badger Bar is exactly what a quaint British pub should be. Here you’ll be treated to log fires, real ales, honest food, and a great atmosphere. What makes this pub so special is the beer garden; the view of Rydal Lake and the surrounding countryside is simply spectacular. The best walks in the Lake District start right from Badger Bar's doorstep, making it the ideal pit stop for a post-walk drink. While you’re outside, you can also feed the colony of badgers that live on the grounds. The badger feeding takes place every night at dusk. If you’re quiet, you can get close to them, and in the summer months, quite a big group can emerge, including the young ones for the first time!
Location: Newby Bridge, Cumbria, LA12 8NB
📞: 01539 531 681
📧: [email protected]
For those of you seeking a luxurious outdoor dining experience, The Swan Hotel should be at the top of your list. The hotel pub is a must-visit after a stroll along the southern tip of Lake Windermere or around the Lake District. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or something a little more indulgent from the Swan Inn’s pub menu, you can enjoy it al-fresco on the outdoor riverside terrace. Boasting stunning scenery of Lake Windermere and rolling hills, The Swan Inn pub terrace provides a place of tranquillity for friends, family, and loved ones.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking some solstice where you can nurse a pint and take in the beauty of the British countryside, there’s a beer garden to suit your mood.
Looking for somewhere to stay after your trip to the pub? Check out our luxury holiday cottages near the Lake District where you can relax outside in comfort and style. Check our availability and start planning your relaxing getaway today.
