Romneys (Kendal)

One of Kendal’s most popular pubs, especially amongst families, Romneys is a large gastro-pub that is conveniently located on the edge of the town centre with plenty of free parking.

Fully renovated before it reopened in 2012 (it was previously known as the Kendal Arms), the pub features quirky interiors with a glass floor looking into the wine cellar, a “naughty corner,” and a half sized door especially for “little uns” that leads directly to a covered outdoor play area. The pub serves food all day and has a wide range of real ales.

Food & Drink

Since the pub reopened as Romneys in 2012 it has been dedicated to providing good quality real ale, with an interesting range available. There is one regular ale, Bowness Bay Agnes’ Ghost Blonde that is brewed especially for the pub, whilst the other four handpumps are used for a changing selection from a number of breweries that include Corby, Cross Bay, Kirkby Lonsdale, and JW Lees. The wine list is particularly impressive, with over 70 varieties to choose from, housed in a cellar below the bar.

Wine & Spirits

There is something to suit most budgets, with bottles ranging in price from £16 for a house red or white, to just under £500 for a nine litre bottle of Champagne serving up to 72 people. For those looking for just a glass, there are nine varieties to choose from. Romneys stocks 18 whiskies from around the world, including the Lake District’s very own “The One” whisky, and there is a good choice of rums. The gin list is particularly notable, with over 40 varieties sourced from 14 different countries. There is a “gin of the week” each week that is on offer served with Fever Tree Tonic.

The Menu

Food is served throughout the day at Romneys, starting at noon. From noon until 6.30pm Monday to Saturday and until 8.30pm on Sundays there is a four roast carvery with all of the extras, and you can help yourself to as many vegetables and potatoes as you like. This is particularly popular on Sundays and booking is advisable. In addition to the carvery, a lunch time menu operates until 6.30pm with a choice of sandwiches, salads, tapas style snacks, and more substantial mains.

In the evenings on Mondays to Saturdays, the evening menu offers an imaginative selection of internationally inspired dishes alongside more classic pub favourites. There are choices for vegetarians (including a carvery option) and children can have a smaller plate for the carvery or choose from a number of dishes from the children’s menu.

Other Features

Romneys has a large television in the bar area, screening free to air channels only. Dogs are welcome in the main bar area where there are a number of tables available for dining.

Outside there is a large play area that is covered, making it suitable for playing in all weather. There is a special half sized door that leads directly to the play area. There is also a spacious beer garden. Romneys holds a quiz each Sunday evening with cash prizes. The pub is able to host wedding receptions in a marquee that can accommodate up to 90 guests.

History

Romneys is housed in a 19th century house, and whilst there is little in its history to suggest that Agnes Romney once lived here, she has repeatedly been spotted haunting the establishment. Agnes was the cousin of painter George Romney, and sister to the great great grandfather of Mitt Romney, US politician. Staff who work at Romneys have claimed to have heard footsteps, creaking, and found items moved, whilst her reflection has been spotted in windows around the building.

Accommodation

Romneys has ten self-catered apartments with one, two, or three bedrooms, all attached to the main pub. The apartments have all been renovated as part of the refurbishment and are elegantly styled with period features. The Lodges are larger with fully equipped kitchens, whilst the Snugs are small, cosy spaces with kitchenettes. Breakfast is not included, but bacon rolls can be provided in the morning in the pub if required.

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