The White Hart Inn (Bouth)

Nestled in the southern Lake District between Coniston Water and Lake Windermere in the tiny village of Bouth, the White Hart Inn is a cosy and inviting 17th century inn that oozes with charm and character. Go through the low front door of this ancient building and you will find a pub filled with historical artefacts and pictures from the local area, along with crackling log fires, exposed beams, and sloped ceilings.

The pub is in a fabulous area for low level walks, ideal for those who prefer a gentler pace with their rambles. Within a reasonable walking distance you will find Haverthwaite station and it’s worth considering making a visit to this pub in combination with a ride on the ancient Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway.

Food & Drink

The White Hart Inn has won numerous awards in recognition of its dedication to real ale and was once named as CAMRA’s Pub of the Season. The pub has six hand pull pumps, with three permanently in use for Black Sheep Bitter, Jennings Cumberland, and Coniston Bluebird – the latter two brewed in Cumbria.

The remaining three pumps are used for guest ales, with over 200 featured within a two-year period. However, if you prefer something else, then there is a reasonable wine list that will cover most tastes, 35 single malt whiskies, plus a good selection of other alcoholic, soft, and hot beverages.

The Menu

Food is served Monday to Saturday between 12noon and 2pm, and then again between 6pm and 8.45pm. On Sundays, food is served from noon until 8.45pm. Wherever possible, the inn uses locally sourced produce, including meat, fish, and vegetables and the food receives rave reviews. All of the pub favourites are on the menu, including a steak and ale pie made the proper way, encased in shortcrust pastry.

There are daily specials, a vegetarian meal, and a children’s menu that is much more than the usual chicken nuggets, largely consisting of smaller versions of the main menu. Lighter bites, such as sandwiches and salads, are also available. Food can be served in the bar, in one of the dining rooms, or outside on the terrace.

Other Features

Outside, there is a good sized beer garden with views of the fells. Opposite the pub across the road there is a public play park, though it is not possible to see the park from the beer garden. The pub hosts regular live music events throughout the year, advertised on their Facebook page. Dogs are welcome inside the pub, except during food service times. Therefore, if you are attending with your dog and wishing to eat, you will need to dine outside.

History

The White Hart Inn is one of the oldest pubs in the area, dating back to the turn of the 17th century. It served the passing trade that came through on the turnpike road that connected the coastal village of Irelath with Kendal, as well as the workers who came to the village for the bi-annual hiring fairs where they would find farm work for six months.

In the early 19th century, a new road was built (now the A590) that bypassed the village of Bouth, taking away much of the passing trade. Two other pubs in the village ceased trading, but the White Hart managed to survive and is now a very popular pub for local residents and visiting tourists.

Accommodation

The White Hart Inn has five rooms available to let on a B&B basis with period features and views across the countryside. Four of the rooms have double beds and en-suite bath or shower rooms. One room has a private bathroom across a corridor and has one double and two single beds, making it ideal for families. Dogs can stay for a small additional charge. Rooms have Wi-Fi access, televisions, and a hospitality tray.

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