Highland Drove Inn

Good food, a roaring open fire, and real ale; exactly what is needed after a long day cycling along the Coast to Coast cycle route. Weary bike enthusiasts and other travellers will find just that at the Highland Drove Inn, in the village of Great Salkeld. The tiny village lies north of Penrith, close to the ancient monument of Long Meg and Her Daughters, and is one of the recommended stopping points for those attempting the 135 mile long cycle route between Whitehaven and Sunderland.

As the name implies, this ancient inn was once a popular resting place for Scottish drovers who brought their Kyloes, a breed of long haired cattle, down from the highlands and into England to be sold at markets. The pub is currently owned and operated by the Newton Family, who bought the failing business nearly 20 years ago and transformed it into a popular and successful gastro inn.

Accommodation

The accommodation is simple and basic, but does contain most of the modern comforts you might require. You can choose to book a double or twin room, and there are five rooms in total, each one benefiting from its own private en-suite bathroom and complementary toiletries. In your bedroom, you will find a television and tea and coffee making equipment. There is free Wi-Fi, though it should be noted that due to the pub’s rural location this can be slow, and mobile phone signal is hard to find.

Restaurants & Bars

The inn has a large bar area where you can sample some local ales and enjoy some light bites, all whilst sitting under timber beams and next to an open fire. The bar is a popular establishment with locals, hosting quiz evenings and other events throughout the year. Upstairs you will find the Kyloes Restaurant. This offers a slightly more formal dining experience with a menu that heavily features locally sourced meat, game and fish.

At first glance, this might seem like classic pub grub, but the inn has won numerous awards for its food, including Les Routiers’ “Northern Dining Pub of the Year” and the Good Pub Guide’s “Cumbria Dining Pub of the Year”. Residents of the inn will also be treated to a hearty Cumbrian breakfast each morning that is cooked to order.

Additional Facilities and Services

As the pub is located on the C2C route and secure bike storage is available.

Celebrations at the Highland Drove Inn

The Highland Drove is a popular venue for New Year’s Eve celebrations. A ticketed event is held each year that includes a three-course meal as well as live music. On New Year’s Day, you can join in with a special pub quiz.

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