7 of the best pubs and clubs to get out to in Cumbria
We all like a good night out. It's the time to let your hair down and let off some steam.
But what kind of night out do you prefer? The pub night, tightly nestled around a table with your mates, drinking pints and telling stories of the week; or the club night, plenty of cocktails with music blasting from all sides and dancing the night away.
Let us know what you think! In the meantime, let's start your weekend off right with these 7 best pubs and clubs around Cumbria!
7. The Woolpack Inn, Eskdale
The Woolpack farmhouse pub, kitchen, and garden is a quaint jaunt down into Boot, Eskdale. With tremendous views of the Cumbrian countryside, the former 1600s era farmhouse has been converted into a warm and welcoming inn, a must-visit destination for those looking to venture outside of the hustle and bustle of local towns in the Lake District.
Offering a wide range of food and drink such as “Steak & Sizzlers”, “Burgers” and “Pub Classics” as well as having Birra Moretti, Amstel, and Strongbow on draught, The Woolpack has you covered for a traditional Cumbrian night in.
6. The Well, Workington
The Well in Workington has grown to be a popular place for young people to drink and socialise ever since its inception. Recently undergoing a bold expansion with its sister business “2 Bar”, The Well offers a contemporary atmosphere inside a well-rounded pub hosting regular events with lots of guests.
Featuring a main centre courtyard and charming passage-wayed interior, The Well may remind you of the historic past of Cumbria. Next time you’re in Workington, be sure to pop in for a pint or two.
5. The Castle Bar, Cockermouth
The Castle Bar in Cockermouth is a famed local pub offering three floors and a sun trap beer garden. Having won numerous awards such as the acclaimed CAMRA commended pub design award in 2009, CAMRA pub of the year in 2013, and cider pub of the year in 2018, they are sure to please even the most astute pub enthusiasts.
Located in the marketplace overlooking the old town, The Castle Bar is also a certified 5-star gastro restaurant featuring Cumbrian classics like Steak and Ale pie and Beer Battered Cod as well as Sunday roast lunch - The perfect way to end a relaxing weekend.
4. Ruskins Bar, Kendal
If electronic music is your thing, then you’ve got to visit Ruskins Bar in Kendal as they recently hosted Electronic Boutique, a new electronic music event focused on Cumbrian talent. Bringing the very best of Cumbrian DJ’s together, they’ve hosted sets from Brad Hodgson, Carl Higson and Chris Locke.
From House to Techno, Soul to Funk, this nightclub is sure to have your dancing feet sore and your ears ringing - the perfect runner's high for the local raver. With their next party on the 19th of November, this is surely not one to miss!
3. Black Box Music Institute, Carlisle
Located on Fisher St in Carlisle, the Black Box Music Institute is a great venue for DJs and live music alike. With a rustic urban basement setting, the Black Box has hosted the likes of No Soap No Radio, Yes Grasshopper, Andy Whitby, and Paul Taylor as well as their resident DJ’s.
One attendee described the Institute as
“A fantastic venue not only for music but events, festivals, art, and performances, to name just a few. The Venue has a very nice mix of people that are very accepting and open-minded, also like the owners of this venue.”
With a review like that, it's hard not to please!
2. The Lion and Lamb, Gosforth
The infamous Lion and Lamb in Gosforth has been a well-renowned watering hole for many of Cumbria’s youth, even for multiple generations. Many a well night has been had in this hidden gem and many a story told of its notoriety among the locals - If only those walls could talk!
With a recently renovated modern interior, pool table, darts board, and pub games such as dominos there's a lot on offer at The Lion and Lamb. Also featuring fan-favourite beers and ales on draught such as Wainwrights, Loweswater Gold, and Cumberland Cream this long-lived pub is sure to live up to its expectations.
1. Joe Bananas, Whitehaven
Having opened its doors just a short few years ago, Joe Bananas in Whitehaven quickly rose to prominence as one of the best nights out in the town. Offering a hybrid of pub and nightlife culture, Joe Bananas offers great music, great drinks, and great company. With many visitors and guests packing the place out on a weekend basis.
Just a short walk from Chattanooga, you’re never far away from some food or the dance floor. Also hosting events like the England final and sponsoring local rugby club Whitehaven RLFC, Joe Bananas is a good all-rounder for Cumbrian night out.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on Josh's picks, let us know if you agree or disagree in the comments below!