The Red Lion Inn

The Red Lion Inn is a central village pub in Hawkshead where dogs are welcome inside. It's the sort of place where you can settle in with a pint and proper food while your dog gets settled too – there's even a dedicated dog menu to show the welcome is genuine.

This is a classic Lake District inn with a strong reputation among walkers and locals alike. The setting suits the area well: you're in the heart of Hawkshead village, so it's ideal for breaking up a day of fell or forest exploring without having to leave your dog tied outside.

Staff here understand that dogs come with their own logistics – wet paws, lead fatigue and the need for a proper sit-down. It's the kind of village pub that still feels like a proper waypoint for people and their dogs, not a place that merely tolerates them.