Eat and drink · Traditional Pub
The King's Head Inn
Thirlspot, Thirlmere, near Keswick
Dog Friendly
## A Keswick Classic
Tucked away on Keswick's bustling main street, The King's Head Inn has been sheltering weary fell walkers for centuries. This characterful coaching inn strikes the perfect balance between historic charm and modern comfort, with low beams, stone floors, and enough nooks and crannies to hide away with a good book after a day on the fells.
## What to Order
The Cumberland sausage with creamy mash is legendary among locals, while the slow-braised beef and ale pie disappears fast on busy weekends. Jennings ales dominate the pumps, though guest beers from Eden Brewery regularly make appearances. Don't miss the sticky toffee pudding if you've earned it on Cat Bells.
## Best Times to Visit
Evenings buzz with a mix of walkers comparing route notes and locals settling in for the night. Weekday lunchtimes offer a quieter experience, perfect for planning your next Lakeland adventure. The beer garden comes alive in summer, offering respite from Keswick's tourist crowds.
## Booking Tips
No reservations needed for drinks, but weekend dining gets busy during peak season. Arrive early evening to secure a spot by the fire, and don't worry about the state of your walking gear – this place has seen it all.
Nearby
Walks nearby
Moderate · 6.2 km · 279 m up
Castle Crag from Grange
About 1 hour 30 minutes
The smallest Wainwright with the biggest personality: up through old slate workings to Castle Crag's summit memorial, then down past Millican Dalton's cave.
Mountain · 13.3 km · 955 m up
Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Swirral Edge
About 4 hours 30 minutes
England's most famous ridge scramble: from Glenridding over the knife edge of Striding Edge to Helvellyn, then down Swirral Edge past Red Tarn.
Hard · 20.4 km · 1132 m up
Helvellyn by the Pony Path from Glenridding
About 6 hours
Helvellyn without the scrambles: up the old pony path from Glenridding via Keppel Cove, along the summit ridge to Dollywaggon Pike and home down Grisedale.