The Punch Bowl Inn (Crosthwaite)

The Punch Bowl Inn at Crosthwaite is not simply a place to grab a bite to eat or rest your head for the night. It’s a destination in its own right. Featured in the Michelin Guide, this charming and rustic 17th century pub is located in the Lyth Valley, known for its damsons and low-level walking routes.

The pub’s restaurant holds two AA rosettes and is currently headed by Arthur Bridgeman Quinn, a young chef who achieved numerous awards and accolades even before he left his teenaged years. Inside, you will find elegant dining rooms with fresh flowers and leather dining chairs. However, the Punch Bowl is still a Lakeland inn at heart, with a traditional bar complete with flagstone floors, real fires, and real ale on hand pump.

Food & Drink

The Punch Bowl is recommended by the Good Pub Guide, thanks in part to its selection of locally brewed real ale. There are two regular beers on hand pump: Barngates Tag Lag and Bowness Bay Swan Blonde. In addition, there are further two cask ales that change regularly, usually sourced from local breweries.

Wine List

There is an excellent wine list with a good choice available by the glass, including Champagne. The pub has an extensive selection of malt whiskies and gins, including local damson gin. If you prefer something more exotic, the bar serves up beautifully presented cocktails.

A Culinary Experience

Of course, what most people come to the Punch Bowl for is the culinary experience. This is not a pub grub style establishment. Dishes combine British and French influences and use the very best of local and seasonal ingredients. The lunch time menu is available Monday to Saturday between noon and 4pm and features a range of sandwiches and salads, as well as more filling options. There are old favourites, such as beer battered haddock and chips, as well as more contemporary options, such as Cod with capers and almonds.

An A La Carte menu operates every evening between 6pm and 9pm, as well as between noon and 4pm on Sundays. The sophisticated menu celebrates Cumbria with items, such as Cumbrian lamb loin in a miniature shepherd’s pie. The twice baked Lancashire cheese soufflé is a popular starter, achieving an impressive rise, whilst the dessert menu includes a tempting array of sweet treats, and an exquisite cheese board. There is a dedicated menu for vegans and vegetarians, as well as for children.

Other Features

The Punch Bowl has a patio terrace outside with tables and chairs. The terrace has delightful views of the Lyth valley. The inn has a civil wedding licence and is able to host up to 48 people with exclusive venue hire available.

Accommodation

The Punch Bowl has nine rooms, all named after former vicars of the Crosthwaite Parish church that is located next to the pub. These luxurious rooms are all individually styled with warm and welcoming tones and furniture that is in keeping with the historic nature of the building.

All rooms benefit from flat screen televisions, DAB radios, and free Wi-Fi, as well as beautifully presented en-suite facilities with free standing roll top baths, separate showers, underfloor heating, and complimentary toiletries. There is no hospitality tray, but guests can order fresh tea and coffee to be delivered to their room for no additional charge. A full Cumbrian breakfast is included in the room rate.

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