New Hall Inn AKA Hole In T’Wall (Bowness-On-Windermere)

The New Hall Inn, better known as the Hole In T’Wall is a Lake District institution. Dating back to 1612, the inn is the oldest in Bowness-On-Windermere and not much has changed since its 17th century origins. The inn still serves cask ale and is a popular place for local residents to have a crack (chat).

It’s not easy to find though, tucked away in a quiet back street, and you won’t find fancy food or luxurious accommodation here. However, it’s a cosy and welcoming inn with great beer and pub grub, which is really all that is needed after a long day walking or working the fells.

Food & Drink

The pub is now part of the Robinsons brewery chain, who are based in Stockport and have a good number of pubs across the north-west of England. The inn therefore serves a selection of cask ales supplied by Robinsons, including their award winning Unicorn and Dizzy Blonde ales. If you struggle to decide which ale to choose, you can order a third of pint of three different ales giving you the chance to try each one before committing for your second pint. The inn also serves a range of draught and bottled beers, as well as a limited selection of wines (including mulled wine) along with spirits, whiskies, soft drinks, and tea and coffee.

The Hole In T’Wall serves food Monday to Thursdays between noon and 2.30pm and then from 6pm until 8.30pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, food is served from noon until 8pm, and, on Sundays, between noon and 5pm. The menu is limited with all the basic pub grub favourites covered and there is a great selection of sandwiches and snacks. It’s not gastro-dining, but it is good, honest, and home cooked food.

Other Features

The inn hosts live music each Friday evening. This tends to be popular with local residents and seats can be taken up quickly so get in early to avoid disappointment. It’s worth noting that dogs are not permitted inside the inn, but they can sit on the small terrace outside.

History

The Hole In T’Wall dates back to 1612. Originally, it was known only as the New Hall Inn, with a smithy next door. The story goes that the blacksmith got fed up of having to nip outside to get his ale and knocked a hole through the wall separating the two businesses so he could be served whilst he worked. The smithy later became part of the inn. Charles Dickens is said to have been a patron of the inn, having become an admirer of the landlord of the time, Thomas Longmire, a celebrated champion wrestler.

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