The Wainwright, Keswick

Once known as the Four in Hand, the Wainwright in Keswick opened in April 2015 following a complete refurbishment. The new owners had a very specific vision for the pub. They wanted to create a walkers’ pub that celebrated the legacy of Alfred Wainwright, and a place where patrons could enjoy the very best of Cumbrian real ales, in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Inside this dog friendly pub, the walls are adorned with maps, as well as photo prints and artwork that captures the majestic and rugged beauty of the fells. A TV screen hangs above the bar showing mountaineering documentaries, inspiring drinkers to plan their next adventure over a pint or a meal. The inn is located on the edge of Keswick’s town centre, a few minutes’ walk from Derwent Water shore.

Food & Drink

The Wainwright is the only pub in Keswick that has been included in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for 2018, and in 2016, it was runner up in the West Cumbria CAMRA Pub of the Year competition. The bar has eight hand pulled beer lines, and the pub serves a changing selection of real ales sourced from across Cumbria. CAMRA members receive a 10% discount.

Inspired by Wainwright, patrons can view a Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Ales in the pub, where details of all the breweries that supply the pub can be seen. In addition, you will find a reasonable wine list with several available by the glass, as well as the usual choices of whiskies, spirits, and soft drinks.

The Menu

Food is normally served all day between noon and 9pm, but during quieter periods, the pub does close for food on weekdays between 3pm and 5pm. Tables cannot be booked in advance and as the pub is popular, you may have to wait for a table during peak periods. All of the food is prepared to order in the small kitchen, and as a result, there may be a long wait for your meal – though generally the wait is considered worth it by those who dine here, thanks to the quality of the food. Where possible, ingredients are sourced from local farms.

During the day, a lunch time menu is in operation with a wide choice of hot and cold baguettes, jacket potatoes, burgers, and other light bites. In the evenings, the main menu has an excellent selection of pub classics, freshly prepared with generous and filling portions. There are a couple of options for vegetarians and a good choice for children who receive a dessert and drink with their meal.

Other Features

The Wainwright pub is dog friendly. There are oak floors throughout, enabling access for dogs in all areas. There are treats available on the bar for dogs.

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