The Crown Inn, Coniston
Located in the heart of Coniston, the Crown Inn is a lively pub that offers real ale, good food, and comfortable accommodation at reasonable prices. The inn is a popular place to eat and drink, so do be aware you might need to wait for a table during peak times. Part of the Robinsons’ Brewery, the inn sadly does not serve up any Cumbrian brewed ale (though real ale is available).
However, it makes up for this through its welcoming staff and great selection of live music events throughout the year. The inn has a number of rooms available for overnight stays, and there are several walking routes that can start from here, including up to the Old Man of Coniston.
Food & Drink
Being a Robinsons’ bar, the inn offers several of the brewery’s award winning real ales, including the Cumbria Way golden ale, which might not be brewed in Cumbria but does still capture the essence of the Lake District by being a traditional, full bodied ale. Plus, if you struggle to decide which cask ale to choose, you can opt for a paddle with three 1/3 pint glasses with a different ale in each. You will also find a full range of draught beers, lagers, and ciders here. In addition, the pub has a reasonable wine list and a fantastic selection of gins with an imaginative choice of mixers.
The menu is typical of a traditional English country pub, with the chef using locally sourced produce wherever possible. You will find all of the usual suspects here, such as scampi, steak and ale pie, and sausage and mash, as well as some more unusual items, such as teriyaki salmon, and daily specials that make use of seasonal ingredients. At lunch time, there is a small selection of hot and cold sandwiches or you can opt for a sharing platter. There is a tempting choice of desserts, including Lakes Ice Cream, and children have a choice of popular dishes. Food can be eaten in the main bar area or in the more formal dining room.
Other Features
The Crown Inn is a very dog friendly pub with dog bowls and treats available for four-legged friends from behind the bar. However, dogs are not permitted in the dining room. Outside, there are number of picnic benches that overlook the road, enabling patrons to enjoy a pint whilst watching the comings and goings of the village.
The inn hosts regular events throughout the year. Live music nights showcase local talent, whilst games nights with darts, dominoes, and board games, aim to raise money for local causes. There is also a large flat screen television in the bar and the pub regularly shows major sporting events.
Accommodation
The Crown Inn has 12 en-suite guest rooms, charmingly presented with country style chic décor. Rooms benefit from televisions with Freeview channels, tea and coffee making facilities, complimentary toiletries, and a hair dryer. Breakfast is included in the room rate. There is a choice of double, twin, triple (three singles) and family (two singles and one double) rooms available. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout.