The Masons Arms (Strawberry Bank)

Named as one of the “Top 50 Gastropubs in Britain” by industry expects, the Masons Arms in the south-eastern Lake District is a Lake District gem. Built in the 16th century, the inn offers the very best of Lake District cuisine combined with warming interiors and spectacular views across the Winster valley.

On the ground floor of this ancient inn, you will find a cosy bar with log fires and exposed beams. Upstairs there is a spacious dining room with window views, and outside there is a delightful sun terrace, as well as an annex with accommodation. The inn is located a short distance outside the village of Cartmell Fell, and around 2.5 miles from the southern tip of Lake Windermere.

Food & Drink

Dining at the Masons Arms is a must. Visitors come from miles around to try the gastronomic delights that are on offer here. The inn uses locally sourced food where possible, and whilst all of the pub classic dishes are covered on the menu, you will also find some internationally inspired dishes, such as Tuscan chicken or crispy Halloumi.

If you prefer something lighter there is a good choice of hot and cold sandwiches and there are options for vegetarians. Pudding lovers are spoilt for choice and the dessert options include locally made gourmet ice cream in a variety of flavours. There is a children’s menu that includes the usual suspects, i.e. pizza, nuggets, etc., though the more adventurous child might be tempted to try the sticky ribs.

The downstairs bar is a warm and inviting place where you will find two regular real ales, Hawkshead Bitter and Thwaites Wainwright. In addition, there are two guest casks and these are usually sourced from Cumbrian breweries. The wine list is reasonable and there is a good choice for those who prefer to buy by the glass. There are over 25 gins to choose from, along with a great selection of other spirits and liqueurs, many created within the Lake District.

Other Features

The Masons Arms is located along a quiet, narrow lane on the hillside with no other buildings in the nearby vicinity. Mobile signal is sparse, and parking can be tricky as there is limited space in the car park. However, this does mean that the beer garden, a large terrace with covers and heating, has views of the Cumbrian fells that extend to around 15 miles away.

The area is a good place for those seeking low level walks in picturesque countryside and the inn has walking guides available in exchange for a small donation to charity. Additionally, the pub sells a small, changing selection of locally made gifts including bottled spirits.

Accommodation

The Masons Arms started life as a 16th century farmhouse and today many of the outbuildings and annexes have been repurposed to provide charming, old world accommodation. Guests can book into one of five delightful suites – two of which have private terraces. Suites are equipped with a hospitality tray that includes biscuits and complimentary toiletries.

Alternatively, there are two cottages with fully equipped kitchens and living areas. One cottage has a double room, a room with bunkbeds, and a double sofabed in the living room. The second cottage has one double room and a double sofabed in the living room. Breakfast is not included in the room rate and guests can either have a continental style hamper delivered to the suite or have a cooked breakfast in the restaurant.

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