Lakeland Breweries and Taprooms: A Craft Beer Trail Through Cumbria's Finest
There's something magical about settling into a cosy taproom after a fell walk, pint of locally brewed ale in hand, steam rising from your damp boots. Cumbria's craft beer scene has absolutely flourished over the past decade, and I've had the pleasure of watching many of these breweries grow from ambitious startups to award-winning operations that rival anywhere in the country.
Southern Lakes: Where It All Began
Any serious beer trail has to start in Cartmel, where the legendary Cartmel Brewery has been crafting exceptional ales since the late 1990s. Their taproom, tucked behind the famous sticky toffee pudding shop, offers tastings of their full range. The Cartmel Peninsula Gold is a particular favourite of mine, perfectly balanced and surprisingly complex. Parking can be tricky in the village centre, so arrive early or use the main car park near the priory.
Head north to Bowness-on-Windermere and you'll find Blackwell Brewery, a relative newcomer that's making waves with their innovative approach. Their taproom overlooks Lake Windermere, and I'd recommend booking ahead during summer months as tables fill up quickly. The brewery specialises in modern IPAs and sours, a refreshing contrast to traditional Lakeland ales.
Don't miss the Windermere Brewery, housed in a converted Victorian building just off the main drag. Their Windermere Pale is exceptional, and the brewery tours every Saturday morning are genuinely fascinating. Limited parking on site, but it's an easy walk from the train station.
Central Lakes: Mountain Views and Malty Brews
Coniston deserves a special mention for the Coniston Brewing Company, which has been perfecting their craft since 1995. The taproom attached to the Black Bull Inn is where Donald Campbell used to drink before his water speed record attempts. Their Bluebird Bitter, named after Campbell's boat, is a beautiful example of traditional Lakeland brewing. The brewery sits right in the village centre with decent parking, though it fills up quickly on sunny weekends.
Further north, Grasmere might be famous for gingerbread, but the small-batch brewing happening at Tweedies Bar shouldn't be overlooked. They serve guest ales from several local microbreweries alongside their own seasonal specials. It's a perfect stop after tackling Helm Crag, and parking is available behind the Swan Hotel.
In Ambleside, the Lucy 4 Tap House showcases the best of Cumbrian brewing alongside carefully selected guests. What I love about this place is their commitment to supporting the smallest local breweries. You might discover a gem from a one-man operation brewing in a barn somewhere in the fells. Street parking only, but most of the town is within walking distance.
Northern Lakes: Wild Landscapes, Bold Flavours
Keswick has become something of a craft beer hub, and rightly so. The Keswick Brewing Company operates from a smart facility on the outskirts of town, with a taproom that offers stunning views across to Skiddaw. Their Thirst trilogy of IPAs shows real skill and imagination. There's ample parking, and they're open Thursday through Sunday. Book ahead if you're planning to eat, as their food menu is surprisingly sophisticated.
The Borrowdale valley might seem remote for brewing, but the tiny Bitter End brewery proves that good beer can come from anywhere. Located in a converted farm building, they produce small batches of extraordinary ales that reflect the wild character of their surroundings. It's only open on weekends, and you'll need to call ahead. Parking is basic but adequate.
Over in the Ullswater area, the Hawkshead Brewery has established itself as one of the region's most successful operations. While their main facility is actually near Staveley, their beer garden at the King's Head in Ullswater village offers the perfect setting to sample their range. The Red ale is a modern classic, and their seasonal specials never disappoint.
Eastern Valleys: Hidden Gems
Langdale might not have its own brewery, but the Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel has become legendary among beer lovers for its selection of local ales. After a day on the Langdale Pikes, there's nowhere better to sample brews from across the region. Limited parking, but the walk from the National Trust car park is part of the experience.
Don't overlook Kirkby Lonsdale in the far southeast. The town's position on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales has created a unique brewing culture that blends Cumbrian and Yorkshire traditions. The Orange Tree pub showcases this beautifully, with rotating taps featuring the best of both regions. Parking is straightforward, and the town makes an excellent base for exploring both areas.
Planning Your Trail
The beauty of Cumbria's brewery trail is its flexibility. You can easily combine tastings with walks, linking breweries via footpaths and bridleways. Many taprooms welcome muddy boots and tired hikers, understanding that beer and the outdoors go hand in hand in the Lakes.
Most breweries operate reduced hours in winter, so check websites before travelling. Summer sees extended opening times and special events, but you'll need to book accommodation well in advance.
The designated driver question solves itself beautifully here, as many breweries offer takeaway bottles and cans. Stock up for evening sessions back at your accommodation, or ship cases home to extend the Lakeland beer experience long after your holiday ends.
