The Pheasant Inn (Allithwaite)

The Pheasant Inn is a friendly pub located in the pretty village of Allithwaite, close to Grange-Over-Sands. It’s a popular stopping point for hikers attempting the Cumbrian coastal way and is just a short distance from the sweeping Morecambe Bay. The pub has been run by the same family since 2005 and, thanks to its status as a free-house, it is able to offer a wide range of beers. It is particularly known for serving hearty and delicious dishes.

Food & Drink

The Pheasant Inn is a free-house, and therefore features cask ales from various breweries. Three hand-pull casks are available, with one permanently dedicated to Thwaites Cask Original. The other two change regularly, and at least one will be a Cumbrian brewed ale. Bottled and draught beers are also available. There is a reasonable wine list that alongside house wines offers a choice of all the main grape varieties and some sparkling options. Cocktails, gins, whisky, and other spirits are all available, as well as soft drinks and tea and coffee.

The Menu

The pub is well regarded locally for its food. Served from midday until 9pm every day, there is an extensive choice on the menu. Dishes can be enjoyed in the bar, or if preferred, in the conservatory dining room, which offers a quieter occasion, as children are not permitted here. All of the classic pub dishes are here, such as burgers and fish and chips.

There is a strong emphasis on local produce, with a section of the menu dedicated to Cumbrian produce with dishes that include Cumberland Sausage, Cartmel Valley Confit of Duck, and Higginson’s Beef Chilli Nachos. The local theme continues with pudding, where you will find Morecambe Bay ice cream and Cartmel sticky puddings. There is a lunchtime menu available until 4pm with hot and cold sandwiches and platters, as well as lighter mains. Traditional roast dinners are available on Sundays but these are very popular so advanced booking is recommended.

Dietary Restrictions & Children's Menu

The pub caters well for those with special dietary requirements, with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options all available. For children, there is a classic fixed price children’s menu with favourites, such as chicken nuggets. However, for older children, or adults with smaller appetites, there is the option to order a smaller version of a selection of main dishes for a reduced price.

Other Features

The pub hosts regular live music events, usually involving a ticketed event that includes a three-course meal. These tend to be advertised on the pub’s Facebook page. New Year’s Eve is celebrated with a three-course meal and live music. The pub also provides special menus for several other national holidays, including Mothering Sunday and Valentine’s Day, with advanced booking required.

Dogs are welcome in the bar where there are dining tables, but not in the conservatory dining room. Dogs must be kept on a lead and dog bowls with water can be provided if required. On Thursday evenings at 9.30pm, the pub’s proprietor, Keith, hosts a quiz night. The cost is £2 per person and includes a light supper of chips and sausage. There are six rounds with topics suited for most ages, and cash prizes are available. There is a small beer garden that is surrounded by lavender plants in a position that gets the best sunlight during the summer.

History

It is believed that the Pheasant Inn dates back to the late 18th century and was previously known as the Farmer’s Arms. It has not always been used as a pub, having spent some time in the 19th century as a residence for farm labourers. It changed its name to the Pheasant and was taken over by the current owners in 2005. A full refurbishment that included the addition of the conservatory dining room was undertaken in 2011.

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