The Royal Oak (Keswick)

The Royal Oak is a delightful, upmarket pub that is conveniently located in the centre of Keswick, overlooking the Saturday market. Fully refurbished inside, this 18th century coaching inn has a welcoming interior with a classic country chic style.

Owned by Thwaites, the pub is not the place to go if you are seeking a lively atmosphere with loud music, but it is perfect for those seeking a more sophisticated pub dining experience, with a strong reputation for serving excellent food. This pub is dog friendly, and also offers overnight accommodation for reasonable prices.

Food & Drink

The Royal Oak is owned by Blackburn based Thwaites Brewery, and therefore serves a number of real ales created by Thwaites, including the Thwaites ales now owned by Marston’s, such as Wainwright and Lancaster Bomber. There are six real ales available at any one time and in addition to the regular Thwaites brews, the inn serves guest ales from local breweries, including the Keswick Brewing Company. The pub has a number of lagers and ciders on draught.

The wine list is more than adequate, with around 30 varieties to choose from, including some more adventurous options such as an Italian Pecorino wine. There is a wide choice of whiskies, spirits, and liqueurs, including a good range of gins and mixers. For non-alcohol drinkers, there are a number of different soft drinks available, as well as a range of teas and barista style coffees.

The Menu

Food is served throughout most of the day at the Royal Oak. Between 8am and 10am, the pub is open for breakfast and non-residents are welcome. For a set price guests can opt for a continental style breakfast with croissants, fruit, yogurts, and more, or choose one of the cooked options that include a full English breakfast served with local eggs, sausages, and bacon.

On Mondays to Fridays between noon and 5pm, there is a sandwich menu available with a good choice to suit most tastes. The main meal is in operation from noon until 9pm. Although the menu is typical of a British pub with burgers, steaks, fish, and pies, the food here is beautifully cooked and presented.

For those who prefer a bit of variety, platters are available with a selection of different nibbles, and there are choices for vegetarians. A full roast dinner is available each Sunday. The pub has an excellent children’s menu, including a “mini board” with a range of nibbles, such as sausages, apple, breadsticks and more that is perfect for weaning and picky eaters.

Other Features

One section of the public area of the pub is dog friendly, allowing dog owners to dine in. Dogs can also stay in a selection of the guestrooms for a small charge with water bowls and cushions provided.

History

The Royal Oak dates back to the 18th century when it was used as a coaching inn. Over the centuries, the inn has hosted a number of notable guests, including Lord Tennyson, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Walter Scott who is said to have written part of his “Bride of Triermain” whilst staying at the inn.

Accommodation

The Royal Oak has 18 guest rooms that are immaculately presented with plush fabrics, large comfortable beds, and quirky pictures. Many have views onto Keswick’s high street. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms with rainforest showers and complimentary toiletries. In addition, rooms benefit from free Wi-Fi, flat screen televisions, hospitality trays that include biscuits and fresh milk, and a tray for muddy boots. Breakfast is included in the room rate.

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