The Crown & Thistle

The Crown & Thistle in Carlisle is a historic coaching inn dating back to the early 1600s, with characterful spaces wrapped around a cobbled courtyard that feels like it's been quietly collecting stories for centuries. Dogs are welcome inside, so nobody needs to do the pavement shuffle while the rest of the group settles in.

Inside, it balances old-world charm with a modern, easy-going feel. Think exposed beams, slightly wonky windows, cosy corners and a menu that moves from brunch through to proper dinners, with wood-fired cooking and Mediterranean touches in the mix. It's the kind of place where you can pop in for a drink and accidentally settle into a full evening.

There's space to spread out and different rooms to tuck into, making it a proper basecamp sort of venue when the day calls for a longer reset with paws under the table.