Best & Cool Bars in Ambleside

"During lockdown, The Square Orange underwent a refurbishment and despite social distancing measures in place it hasn't lost its heart and soul. The “Squorange" is an unexpected gem found nestled in the heart of Keswick. With a full bar of guest wines from family run vineyards, local microbreweries alongside Belgian and German beers, it also has coffee blends from Cumbrian roasteries as well as flavours sourced from further afield such as from India and South America."

"This lively cafe-bar seems to have become everyone's favourite hangout in Keswick – thanks no doubt to its superb thin-based pizzas, excellent wine and craft beer selection and a regular programme of live gigs...."

"Last but not least on our list of best Keswick restaurants is The George Hotel, Restaurant & Bar. The hotel dates back to 1665, making it one of the oldest hotels in the Lake District and Keswick. Admire the characterful features as you enjoy a spot of pub grub at this traditional restaurant in Keswick."

"The half portion is usually more than enough for most, but try the full portion for a real feast!. This is a lovely traditional pub serving breakfast, lunch and dinner at the oldest coaching inn in Keswick."

"01/03/2021: We visited the Copper Pot Cafe twice during our stay in Ambleside, and both times we were treated to a fantastic breakfast.We were able to get a walk in table each time, with only a minor wait.The staff are friendly, and the food was excellent, with generous portions.The only downside is that there's only one toilet, which is accessed externally, which can mean queueing in the rain, however everything else was so good it doesn't warrant knocking off a point."

"‘Top Coffee’ has got to be the highest accolade I can award, and wow these folks deserve it. Secreted away on one of Ambleside’s quiet streets, this externally humble cafe is home to my most highly regarded coffee of the lot. They delivered a strong coffee (on request), the beans of which having being sourced and roasted locally."

"A cosy hub in the heart of Ambleside, the Lake District, jammed with great food, coffee, music, and friendly faces. Dogs are welcome in all areas including the bar, cosy fire room and kitchen garden. Email: info@copper-pot.co.uk"

"Not strictly a restaurant, however this bar serves great food and also a solid selection of local ales on draft. During the week it is a lovely quiet place to bring the dog and enjoy some decent food, however at later on a Friday or Saturday night it can get a bit loud if you are hoping for a quiet meal. Service is always friendly, and they do a great value early bird menu."

"With a great atmosphere and equally excellent food, The Lily Bar on Lake Road is one of Ambleside’s newest pubs. It boasts modern décor that generally attracts a younger group and hosts regular classic pub entertainment including weekly quizzes, open mic nights, live bands, and even a ‘pitcher night’."

"12-14 Lake Road, Ambleside LA22 0AD, EnglandSeating, Waitstaff, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free WifiBar, British, Pub, Contemporary, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, Dinner, Late Night, Drinks+44 15394 33175"

"05/06/2021: We were lucky enough to get a table at Lucy's a week after they reopened post lockdown 3!. The service, ambience and food were all back to their best.Last summer we had to queue to get in but that system seems to have been streamlined so were not outside for long.All the old favourites are on the menu and the celebrity guests (cardboard cutouts) add a talking point and a bit of fun.There is a general shortage of restaurant staff in the town but Lucy's staff worked very hard to ensure we were well looked after. 03/06/2021: We went to Lucy's a while ago now and are still talking about it now which prompted this review."

"Known as much for the quirkiness of its dish names as for the quality of its food, this long-standing boho bistro remains a popular choice. The decor's eclectic – mix-and-match furniture, knick-knacks – and the... Top ChoicePies in Ambleside"

"Styled like an American Diner there is always a friendly welcome here and we love the food. Its American, Mexican, and tasty. Something a little different from your normal Lakeland fair."

"It is located right on the shores of Windermere, offering a range of activities. The traditional restaurant allows guests to eat any time of day while admiring views of the lake. There is a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and full fitness studio."

"Afternoon Tea at Low Wood Bay is a quintessentially traditional experience. Served within the delightful surrounds of either The Windermere Restaurant or Buckley room."

"This traditional English pub is full of warming woods and good-quality food and ales. Just a stone's throw from the shores of Windermere, it boasts a really relaxed atmosphere and reasonably-priced meals in generous portions. From cheesy burgers to amazing steaks, you'll leave with a full belly!"

"If you are looking for good quality, hearty food at an affordable price, then the Flying Pig is a great option. We really enjoyed the great fish and chips, as well as the juicy burgers here. Both of which go down very well with a refreshing pint!"

"This quirky bar with a trendy interior serves Pacific-style street food in a bustling atmosphere, giving you an experience that’s unlike any other pub in Windermere. Along with regular live music evenings, they do cocktail making classes, yoga disco and private pod karaoke – this is probably the most energetic Windermere pub!. We love their Sunday lunch menu, and recommend the Flamed Pork Belly."

"Reservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Live Music"

"Owned by the Kennedy family since 1984, Lindeth Fell is a stunning Edwardian home with traditional touches such as parquet flooring, traditional sofas and pastoral artwork. Guests are welcomed with home-made scones and tea, and the friendly service from staff continues through your stay. The 14 bedrooms are all extremely spacious, with ensuite bathrooms and tasteful decor."

"Overlooking Lake Windermere, Lindeth Fell offers impressive views and free parking, just 5 minutes from Windermere Ferry Crossing. It offers colourful flower gardens, elegant rooms and tea and scones on arrival. An extensive breakfast menu is served in the bright dining room overlooking 7 acres of beautiful gardens and the stunning Coniston mountain range."

"This cosy pub situated in central Windermere boasts nice interior decor with dark coloured woodwork and serves hearty meals served all day alongside a nice variety of drinks. This pub is a popular stop after visiting the World of Beatrix Potter, which is located right beside it. There’s often fun and lively quiz and music evenings here, so if you’re staying in the area pop round one evening."

"Brockhole is the official visitor centre of the Lake District, located on the shores of Lake Windermere. While it’s a great place to relax by England’s biggest lake, there’s also plenty to see and do during a visit to Brockhole, whether it’s simply walking through the meadows and woodland or having a go at the Treetop Trek course or even hiring a canoe to adventure onto Lake Windermere. As you can see, there’s so much to see and do for the whole family in the South Lakes area, so why not stop by for a few nights at Holgates holiday cottages here in Silverdale?"

"Enjoy the famous adventure playground, paddle in the lake, and explore the fabulous Mawson designed gardens with good pushchair and wheelchair access. Hire a boat on the lake, with motor boats, rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards for hire. Challenge yourself with archery, laser clay or inside caving."

"Brockhole, situated in 30 acres of gardens between Ambleside and Windermere, is the Lake District National Park Authority Visitor Centre. One of the most popular Windermere attractions, it has its own landing stage, tree top trek, boat and bike hire, shop, tea rooms….see all things to do here >>"

"If you need a picnic spot, or just somewhere to relax in front of Windermere, Borrans Park is a public green space at the lake’s northernmost tip just west of Waterhead. The park merges with the greenery around the Roman fort, and there are benches facing the water so you watch the steamers coming and going, and take in natural splendour the lakeshore. Behind you to the north and northeast are the brooding high fells of the Central Lakeland."

"Borrans Park has magnificent views of Windermere lake and is easily accessed from the A591. There are the remains of a Roman road leading to the ruin of a Roman fort with historical interpretation information in the adjacent field. The large grassed recreation area has picnic tables and ample seating."

"Metres from Windermere’s northern shore is an archaeological site for the Roman fort of Galava, founded towards the end of the 1st century. This stronghold defended the intersection of three Roman roads, heading off to Ravenglass and Carlisle on Hadrian’s Wall to the north, and Papcastle to the west. The remains date from the 2nd or 3rd century, when it appears that the fort was demolished and reconstructed."

"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."

"The Wainwright is a charming pub in Keswick town centre, reopened in 2015 after extensive refurbishment. With the words “We don’t do fast food, we do good food as fast as we can” positioned proudly on their wall, you can expect to find a great range of locally sourced pub grub. The Wainwright has eight impressive real ales on tap so you’ll be able to taste a variety of beers from Cumbria."

"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."