Smokies Retro Bar

Smokies Retro Bar in Kendal is a neon-tinged time capsule where the soundtrack jumps decades without asking permission, and the décor looks like a funhouse got really into nostalgia. Dogs are welcome inside, so nobody needs to do the pavement-waiting shuffle while the tunes roll from the 50s through to the 00s.

Expect a lively little buzz, plenty of "this is my song!" moments (even if your dancing is mostly shoulder-based), and a friendly mixed crowd. There's usually something on the TVs if you like your pint with a side of sport, and it's the kind of place where a relaxed drink can easily turn into a longer session once the banter starts flowing.

Your dog will soak up attention like a sponge, then lie down dramatically as if they've survived a nightclub. Come for one, stay because it's fun, and leave humming something you forgot you loved.