The Hare & Hounds (Bowland Bridge)
Nestled deep in the picturesque Winster Valley that lies to the east of Lake Windermere, the Hare & Hounds is a cosy 17th century inn that has received high praise for its food. The inn offers gastropub dining without the fussiness. Children, walkers with muddy boots, and dogs are welcome here, whether it be inside the refurbished interiors with roaring log fires or outside in the garden that offers delightful views of the surrounding area.
The inn is just three-miles from the shore of Windermere and not far from Gummers How, a popular walking route. With its small selection of luxurious rooms, the inn is a great base for exploring the south-eastern Lake District.
Food & Drink
Thanks to its dedication to excellent food and real ale, the Hare & Hounds has been featured in numerous guides, including the Good Pub Guide and the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide. Ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible and the menus change seasonally to reflect this.
You will find classic pub dishes here, such as beer battered fish and chips and steak and ale pie, both using the inn’s signature ale, Hare of the Dog. However, if you fancy something a bit different, then the inn offers daily specials, again with an emphasis on local ingredients that are beautifully presented. Lighter meals, vegetarian dishes, and a children’s menu are also available. Sunday dinners are particularly special – especially if you are fond of the humble Yorkshire Pudding.
The Hare & Hounds serves locally brewed ale from Tirril Brewery who are based in Appleby. The selection includes a special ale produced by the brewery especially for the inn, Hare of the Dog, along with two other cask ales. There is a good wine list with something to suit every budget, as well as a good choice of gins, ciders, spirits and liqueurs.
Other Features
The pub has two outdoor spaces, a terrace and a garden, with the latter making the most of evening sunshine and views across the Winster valley. A quiz is held each Thursday at 9pm with cash prizes and snacks included with the entrance fee. Dogs are welcome in the pub and water bowls can be provided if required.
Accommodation
The Hare & Hounds has a small selection of rooms available on a bed and breakfast basis. Standard and deluxe rooms are available, with all rooms benefiting from flat screen televisions, complimentary Wi-Fi, luxury bedding and towels, tea and coffee making facilities, and en-suite bathrooms, some with showers only, others with free standing roll top baths and walk-in showers. Deluxe rooms are generously sized with king sized beds and the individually styled rooms are enhanced with period features, such as exposed beams. Guests can enjoy a full cooked breakfast in the inn each morning.