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Waterbridge Inn, Ambleside

Use our guide to 6 of the best dog-friendly pubs in Ambleside to find a relaxing spot during your holiday in the Lake District.

There is no better place to take your beloved dog than to the Lake District National Park, offering seemingly infinite outdoor opportunities. Discover a magnitude of scenic paths and trails, as well as fells and peaks for the more adventurous. After a day of exhilarating adventure, you’re going to need somewhere to relax and recharge those batteries.

Discover 6 of the best dog-friendly pubs in Ambleside…


1. Wateredge Inn

Wateredge Inn Ambleside

As the name suggests, the Wateredge Inn perches beautifully on the northern banks of the popular Windermere lake. This 17th-century dog-friendly pub in Ambleside serves food and drink of the highest order, it’s not surprising that it is one of the UK’s best dog-friendly places to eat!

Sit yourselves inside the stylish restaurant, or soak up the sun on the glorious lakeside beer garden. You and your pooch can admire views across the serene waters and towards the surrounding fells from this wonderful Ambleside restaurant. Close by is the popular Ghyll Force waterfall, one of many excellent things to do in the Lake District.

Address: Borrans Rd, Ambleside LA22 0EP

Contact: 015394 32332; info@wateredgeinn.co.uk


2. The Royal Oak

Royal Oak Ambleside

Humans and dogs alike are sure to love the lively, sunny hot spot of the Royal Oak pub in Ambleside. The suntrap beer garden soaks up the rays all day, making it the perfect dog-friendly Ambleside pub during the summer.

Return from a scenic Lake District walk on a clear day and recharge those batteries with some hearty pub grub. When the weather isn’t so good, take advantage of the cosy interior, featuring rustic exposed beams and a roaring fire. The perfect dog-friendly pub and stop-off during your stay in our dog-friendly accommodation in the Lake District.

Address: Main St, Ambleside LA22 9BU

Contact: 015394 33382


3. White Lion Hotel

White Lion Hotel Ambleside

Find this traditional British pub in the centre of Ambleside, perfect for kicking back with your four-legged friend. Re-energise with some classy pub food and a pint of real ale while your dog lies by the open fire.

The beer garden is just as appealing during the summer months, a glorious sun trap for you and your pooch. This dog-friendly Ambleside pub offers all that you need for that post-adventure refreshment.

Address: Market Pl, Ambleside LA22 9DB

Contact: 015394 39901


4. Glen Rothay Hotel & Badger Bar

Glen Rothay Hotel

This quirky, olde-worlde, dog-friendly Ambleside pub dates back hundreds of years and is the perfect pit stop during a picturesque Lake District walk. Enjoy the classy food and superb ales among the welcoming atmosphere, with a heart-warming open fire adding an extra cosy touch.

When the weather improves, make the most of two sunny beer gardens, or perhaps come after dark to feed the resident badgers. This is without doubt one of the most unique and characterful dog-friendly pubs in Ambleside.

Address: Glen Rothay Hotel and Badger Bar, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 9LR

Contact: 015394 34500; info@theglenrothay.co.uk


5. Waterhead Hotel

Waterhead Hotel Ambleside

Discover this dog-friendly Ambleside pub just a stone’s throw from Ambleside Pier, on the banks of the activity-packed Windermere. The Waterhead Hotel prides itself on offering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a drink and a bite to eat.

Sample exquisite food which adds a modern touch to popular, regional classics while using high-quality local produce. Bring your four-legged friend along to chill out in this dog-friendly Ambleside pub.

Address: Lake Rd, Ambleside LA22 0ER

Contact: 015394 32566


6. Brittania Inn

Brittania Inn Ambleside

Discover this traditional, dog-friendly Lake District pub close to Ambleside town. Dogs are more than welcome at this friendly Ambleside pub which rests near the banks of the River Brathay.

Spend an afternoon soaking up the welcoming atmosphere, with real ales and homemade pub grub aplenty. Warm yourselves in front of the open fire after a day of exploration and adventure in the Lake District.

Also, discover our handy guide to dog-friendly pubs in Keswick.


A whole host of places to stay in the Lake District allow you to experience the region’s sheer beauty. Use our things to do in the Lake District guide for all your holiday inspiration.


David Dixon – (CC BY-SA 2.0)Alexander P Kapp –  (CC BY-SA 2.0); Kenneth Allen –  (CC BY-SA 2.0); Peter Trimming – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Andrew Curtis – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Mick Garratt(CC BY-SA 2.0)

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