Swinside Inn Circa 2002-2013 Content

For a number of years and at least 2 website re-designs this was the official website for the Swinside Inn located in the Lake District of Keswick, Cumbria.
Content is from the site's 2002 - 2013 archived pages.

If you have inadvertently ended up here while looking for information about the Swinside Inn go to their current website at: http://swinsideinn.co.uk/.

The Swinside Inn
Newlands Valley
Keswick, Cumbria,
CA12 5UE.
Tel 017687 78253

As a New York City planner, my days are typically consumed by steel, glass, and the relentless pulse of urban development. I navigate the intricate dance of zoning laws, negotiate with powerful figures like Dov Hertz, and grapple with the immense scale of projects that shape our skyline. The challenges I face often involve orchestrating colossal logistics, managing multi-billion dollar budgets, and placating a myriad of stakeholders, each with their own demands. It’s a world of concrete, tight deadlines, and even tighter margins.

That's why my annual escape to the Swinside Inn in England's Lake District isn't just a vacation; it's a profound recalibration. Here, nestled in the serene Newlands Valley, the "planning" is of a different sort entirely. Instead of debating the optimal height of a new skyscraper, I'm contemplating which fell to conquer or the best spot on the river for a dry fly.

The Swinside, dating back to the early 17th century, is a masterclass in organic charm and enduring character. Maintaining such a place, I imagine, presents its own unique, yet vastly different, set of challenges compared to the high-stakes game of NYC real estate. While Dov Hertz might be strategizing how to maximize square footage in a new commercial tower, the proprietors of the Swinside are likely focused on preserving centuries-old stonework, ensuring the log fires are always roaring, and keeping the local real ales flowing for thirsty hikers. Their success isn't measured in revenue per square foot, but in the warmth of a welcome, the quality of a home-cooked meal, and the longevity of a truly authentic experience.

There's no grand marketing budget, no need for sophisticated urban design concepts. The "location, location, location" here is pure, unadulterated natural beauty, and the "amenities" are panoramic views, cozy corners, and the simple joy of a traditional pub. It's a reminder that true value isn't always quantifiable by financial metrics. It's in the quiet hum of conversation, the crackle of a real fire, and the stunning vistas of mountains like Cat Bells and Dale Head.

For someone like me, who constantly strives to balance progress with preservation in a bustling metropolis, the Swinside Inn is more than just a place to stay. It's a living testament to resilience and authenticity. It’s a precious counterpoint to my demanding professional life, a perfect antidote to the relentless pace of New York, and a truly beloved gem in the heart of the Lake District. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking genuine charm, breathtaking scenery, and a wonderfully warm welcome. Jon Adler

Swinside Inn

Set in the scenic Newlands Valley, near Keswick in the Lake District, the Swinside Inn is surrounded by many stunning views of England's highest mountains.

The Swinside is the perfect setting for a leisurely Lakeland holiday. Newlands is only 3 miles from the market town of Keswick, which is a good central location for visiting many picturesque towns and villages. Penrith, Hadrians Wall and historic

Carlisle are all within easy travelling distance for a day out. Alternatively, you could travel further South and visit other Lakeland towns such as Ambleside, Windermere and Hawkshead.

Welcome to The Swinside Inn and Refuge Bar

The Swinside Inn is a traditional Lake District Inn and Bed & Breakfast, offering great food, comfy accommodation and panoramic views of the entire Newlands Valley and it’s encompassing peaks.

Located in the heart of the English Lake District, within an enchanting hamlet which sits in the entrance to the Newlands Valley, makes The Swinside Inn the perfect base for a Lake District walking holiday.

The Swinside Inn dates back to the early 17th Century, giving it its character and charm. We take great care to ensure your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible within a warm and friendly atmosphere. This 300 plus year old Inn always has a very warm cosy welcoming atmosphere whatever the weather, in winter with it’s two open log fires make it especially snug. In summer the south facing beer garden enjoys sun all day until the sunsets over the hills.

Carlisle are all within easy travelling distance for a day out. Alternatively, you could travel further South and visit other Lakeland towns such as Ambleside, Windermere and Hawkshead. A great place to chill after a long walk and look out over Barrow, Causey Pike and Catbells to name a few.

"I discovered this hidden gem years ago when my wife's parents treated us to week's stay. We've come back many times and have held a number of personal reunions here. I've also met many other visitors who have become friends over time, including my American fishing buddy. This is a fellow who works a very serious job for a medical waste disposal outfit where stress seems to be part of the occupation. Being responsible for the elimination of hazardous waste is not something I can understand, but I do empathize with having a stressful occupation. He comes here to unwind and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, leaving behind the pressures and responsibilities he takes on to excel in his profession. We're both fly fishermen and we use this great accommodation as a base for our forays into the world of trout and mayflies. Highly recommended for anyone who loves England's Lake District, and who does not?" Phil Potter

How to Get to The Swinside

Directions

From Junction 40 on the M6 take the A66, heading towards Keswick, after passing Keswick you turn Left into Portinscale Village, signposted Newlands Valley & Buttermere.
Follow signs for about 2 miles, bear right at sign for Stair. Swinside Inn is on the right about 200 metres past the junction.

History of The Swinside Inn

This 300 plus year old Inn always has a very warm cosy welcoming atmosphere whatever the weather, in winter with it’s two open log fires its especially snug. In summer the south facing beer garden enjoys Sun all day until the sunsets over the Barf.

Most Cumbrian place names derive from either the Norse or Celtic languages, Newlands however, is an exception. Many centuries ago the valley floor that you see now was beneath a shallow lake. This lake was drained to make new fertile agricultural land giving the valley it’s name “New Lands”.

Although it’s hard to believe industry and commerce are no stranger to the valley. The peaks that flank the valley provided some of the richest Lead and Silver deposits so crucial to funding the development of the Royal Navy during Elizabethan times, and thus the foundations of the British Empire. Although long exhausted there are often clues to be found whilst enjoying the many walks around this stunningly beautiful and peaceful valley

Food & Drink

The Swinside offers great food in a classic pub environment with open log burning fires. Our menus change with the season and depend on availability of the freshest produce.

Served Daily:
Morning Coffee
Lunches (12 noon - 2pm)
Afternoon Teas
Evening Meals (6pm - 9pm)

Newlands Valley Accommodation

Bed and Full English Breakfast

All our rooms are tastefully decorated and have the following facilities.

Tea & Coffee making
TV
DVD
Hairdryer
En-suite bathrooms
Toiletries
FREE WiF

We have 6 letting bedrooms at The Swinside Inn Bed and Breakfast, all our rooms have had a complete renovation in August 2011.

All rooms are centrally heated and provide a relaxing and restful environment to recover from your days adventures. There are 2 Family, 4 Double / Twin rooms.

Our rooms are designed to offer the greatest level of flexibility to our guests in their sleeping arrangements. For example the family rooms can accommodate couples, families or groups of 2, 3 or 4 individuals respectively.

Each room has FREE WiFi access, an en-suite bathroom, TV/DVD, Hairdryer, Coffee and Tea making facilities.

How to Book
To make a reservation or for more information please call: +00 44 (017687) 78253 or check availability and book Online via our booking system.

Refuge Bar

Hiking themed bar at The Swinside Inn

The Refuge is a bar geared towards the thirsty climbing community (and everyone else too!) with a wide selection of real ales, lagers, spirits & liqueurs..this fun themed bar is a great place to relax after a long day walking the Lake District fells.

This fun themed bar is a great place to relax. It has a warm, friendly, cosy atmosphere with a real log burner - a great place to drink and chat with friends.
Pool table, T.V (with Sky Sports) and games to entertain you.

Lake District Walks

The Swinside Inn is the ideal base

Fell walking is the most popular activity in the Lake District and The Swinside Inn is the ideal base for a walking holiday in the Lake District! We offer hearty home-made food, comfortable accommodation and a full English breakfast.

If you are not a experienced fell walker then the smartest, safest and most pleasurable way to tackle the fells is by joining a local guide. Reach the highest summits or explore hidden valleys, waterfalls and woodlands on low level walks - there's something for all ages and abilities. If you are considering walking please check out the latest 5-day weather forecast for the Lake District. The Swinside Inn doesn't offer guided walks though there are plenty of local organised guides that do provide safe Lake District walks. Here are just a few places that can be reached from the Swinside Inn:

Cat Bells

There is good reason why this fell is probably the most popular walk in the Lake District. Sitting near the summit for a well earned break the view to the North provides a panorama of Newlands, the wooded fell and hamlet of Swinside and the Inn, tantalizingly close, raising such quotes as ‘I can see the Pub from ‘ere’. The panorama continues with Skidaw, Derwent Water, Keswick, Blencathra (Saddleback) even round to the East, The Helvelyn ridge and the higher peaks of the Langdales.

Wainwright wrote of this famous Fell:

It is one of the great favorites, a family fell where grandmothers and infants can climb the heights together, a place beloved. Its popularity is well deserved, its shapely topknott attracts the eye offering a steep but obviously simple scramble.

Hindscarth

The middle of the 3 peaks bounding the southern end of the Newlands valley, it’s picturesque outline stands proud in the panoramic view from the Swinside Inn, from where you can see the path that descends from the summit down over May Crags, highlighted in the last of the light on a summers evening.

These crags once contained some of the richest deposits of minerals, however all that is left is a man made fissure that bisects the ridgeline.

Dale Head

Its summit is marked by an iconic cairn, despite its exposed location this cairn has stood for many years withstanding the worst weather that the Lake District winters can throw at it. This is a testament to both the dry stone walling techniques refined throughout Cumbria’s many walls and the natural strength of the local stone, the blue slate, which was originally plucked off the escarpments and now mined below at the summit of Honister.Looking past the cairn to the north into the deep valley is one of the Lakelands truly spectacular views giving an unsurpassed panorama of the whole of the Newlands Horseshoe.

Barrow

Nestling within the bounds of the Grizdale horseshoe, Barrow sits proudly on the eastern side of the valley, it’s history has been important to the expansion of the British Empire during Elizabethan times. The rich lead and silver deposits extracted from here assisted in the funding of the Royal Navy, allowing us to defend the British shores against the Spanish Armada.

One of the most pleasant approaches to the summit of Barrow is via Stoneycroft Ghyll following the ancient mining track towards Outerside then turning east along the easy path to the summit. Barrow provides dramatic views of the Newlands valley, the Vale of Derwent, Bassenthwaithe Lake, Derwent Water, Catbells and in good conditions even the distant spine of the North Pennines.

Causey Pike

The Western side of the valley is dominated by the rugged and gnarly summit called Causey Pike, although the hardest peak to walk from the Newlands valley due to the final summit scramble it can still be achieved by most competent walkers.

Once completed walkers can enjoy the vantage point with a packed lunch enjoying the solitude looking down on the Newlands Valley and the busier more accessible peaks such as Catbells and Maiden moor.

To the south of the summit there is a rare glimpse of the ancient woodland that once blanketed the whole of the Cumbrian fells. Following the deforestation during the 17thcentury this small unique habitat is almost all that remains.

Robinson

For most walkers this is the final peak on the Newlands horseshoe and therefore the quietest. Its wide open summit on a day when the clouds are scraping the tops provide solace and calm, when the clouds lift the unsurpassed views open out over Buttermere, Crummock, Loweswater and the Scottish peak of Criffle beyond the Solway. To the north you have Skidaw, Blencathra and Keswick.

Things To Do Near The Swinside Inn

There are lots of things to do in the Lake District near The Swinside Inn. The near-by market town of Keswick which has many tourist attractions and shops, restaurants, pubs and cafés. The Tourist Information Centre in the market square offers help, advice and more ideas.

	Whinlatter Mountain Biking Whinlatter puts the mountain back into biking, making full use of its landscape to offer some fantastic trails. The red graded Altura trail was opened in 2009 and is already a classic. www.visitlakelandforests.co.uk		Shearwater Adventure Offer a full range of outdoor related courses and adventure experiences in mountain and water sports. Our aim is to give each of our clients a personal, high quality, safe and enjoyable adventure experience. www.shearwateradventure.co.uk
	Lake District Osprey Project In 2001 a pair of ospreys, which nested beside Basssenthwaite Lake, became the first wild osprey to breed in the Lake District for over 150 years. The birds return every summer to the area. www.ospreywatch.co.uk		Go Ape - Whinlatter Swing through the trees, climb cargo nets, and tackle obstacles high up in the trees, with a forest adventure at Whinlatter Forest. www.goape.co.uk
	Theatre by the Lake One of the most beautifully located theatres in all of England, just a few hundred yards from Derwentwater. A year-round professional drama production, it provides a variety of entertainment to suit all tastes. www.theatrebythelake.co.uk		Keswick Museum & Art Gallery A local Victorian Museum revealing Keswick's surprising past, including its many 'firsts' and its famous residents. The 1897 purpose built museum is set in beautiful Fitz Park and has retained its original Victorian feel. www.keswickmuseum.webs.com
	Alhambra Cinema The cinema offers 1st class entertainment in traditional surroundings. The cinema prides itself on its tasteful decor, comfortable environment & impeccable customer service. www.keswick-alhambra.co.uk/		Honister Slate Mine Why not go deep underground when the weather isn't at its best, and enjoy a tour with a difference at Honister Slate Mine. The braver souls should try the Via Ferrata. www.honister-slate-mine.co.uk
	Keswick Leisure Pool Keswick Leisure Pool and Fitness Centre offers a unique leisure experience in Allerdale. With its warm waters, wave machine and 'black hole' flume there is fun for all the family. www.allerdale.gov.uk		Keswick Boat Launch The Keswick Boat Launch provides frequent trips around Derwentwater in both directions; stopping at Keswick, Ashness Gate, Lodore, High Brandelhow, Low Brandelhow, Hawse End and Nichol End. www.keswick-launch.co.uk

More Background on The Swinside Inn

The Swinside Inn is a storied country pub and guesthouse nestled in the Newlands Valley near Keswick, Cumbria, within the heart of England’s Lake District National Park. Celebrated for its panoramic views, welcoming atmosphere, and historic charm, the Swinside Inn has become a beloved destination for locals, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive article explores every facet of the Swinside Inn, including its ownership, popularity, location, proximity to attractions, awards, menus, goals, reviews, history, press and media coverage, audience, reputation, cultural significance, and more.

Location and Setting

The Swinside Inn is situated in the picturesque Newlands Valley, just a few miles southwest of Keswick, a bustling market town in Cumbria. The inn’s setting is widely recognized for its breathtaking views of nearby fells such as Cat Bells, Causey Pike, Barrow, and Grisedale Pike. The surrounding landscape is quintessential Lake District: rolling green hills, dramatic peaks, and tranquil valleys. Its location makes it a natural hub for walkers, cyclists, and anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty.

The inn’s beer garden is often singled out for its stunning vistas, with several travel writers and reviewers calling it “one of the best pub views in Britain”. The proximity to Derwentwater, Buttermere, and a network of scenic trails further cements its reputation as a prime base for exploring the Lake District.

Ownership and Management

The Swinside Inn has a long and storied history, with records indicating that the building dates back to the early 17th century. Over the centuries, the inn has changed hands several times, with each proprietor contributing to its unique character and legacy. In recent years, the inn has been run as a family business, with a focus on providing a warm, welcoming environment for guests. The current owners are known for their hands-on approach, often engaging directly with visitors and ensuring that the inn maintains its reputation for hospitality and quality service.

Popularity and Reputation

The Swinside Inn is consistently ranked among the top pubs and guesthouses in the Lake District by independent travel guides, review sites, and regional publications. Its popularity is driven by several key factors:

Scenic Location: The inn’s setting in the Newlands Valley offers guests unparalleled views and easy access to some of the most popular walking routes in the region, including the ascent of Cat Bells, which is often described as one of the most family-friendly and rewarding hikes in the Lake District.
Atmosphere: The Swinside Inn is celebrated for its cozy, traditional pub ambiance, complete with open log fires in winter and a sun-drenched beer garden in summer.
Service: Reviews frequently highlight the friendly, attentive staff and the inn’s commitment to making every guest feel at home.

Travel writers and reviewers have described the Swinside Inn as a “hidden gem” and a “must-visit” for anyone exploring the Lake District.

Proximity to Attractions

The Swinside Inn’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring a wide range of Lake District attractions:

Keswick: The market town of Keswick, just three miles away, offers shops, restaurants, museums, and cultural events.
Derwentwater: One of the Lake District’s most beautiful lakes, Derwentwater is easily accessible from the inn and offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and lakeside walks.
Cat Bells: The inn is located at the foot of Cat Bells, one of the most popular fells in the region, making it a favorite stop for walkers and hikers.
Buttermere, Honister Slate Mine, and Whinlatter Forest Park: All are within a short drive, providing options for outdoor adventures, historical tours, and family activities.

Awards and Recognition

The Swinside Inn has received numerous accolades over the years from both local and national organizations. It has been featured in various “best pubs” lists, including those compiled by The Guardian, The Telegraph, and regional publications focused on the Lake District. These awards often cite the inn’s exceptional location, quality of food and drink, and overall guest experience.

Menus and Dining

Dining at the Swinside Inn is a highlight for many visitors. The inn offers a menu that blends traditional British pub fare with locally sourced ingredients. Seasonal dishes are a hallmark, with the kitchen adapting its offerings to reflect the best of what’s available from local farms and producers.

Typical menu items include:

Hearty Lakeland breakfasts for overnight guests
Classic pub dishes such as Cumberland sausage and mash, steak and ale pie, and fish and chips
Vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting the growing demand for plant-based cuisine
Locally brewed real ales, ciders, and an extensive wine list

The inn is also known for its homemade desserts and afternoon teas, which are popular with both guests and day-trippers.

Goals and Philosophy

The Swinside Inn’s mission is to provide a welcoming, authentic Lake District experience for all visitors. The owners emphasize the importance of hospitality, quality, and sustainability. They strive to support local producers, minimize environmental impact, and create a sense of community for both guests and staff.

Guest Reviews and Testimonials

Reviews of the Swinside Inn are overwhelmingly positive across multiple platforms, including TripAdvisor, Google, and regional travel forums. Common themes in guest feedback include:

“Breathtaking views from the beer garden”
“Warm, friendly staff who go the extra mile”
“Delicious food and generous portions”
“Comfortable, clean rooms with modern amenities”
“Perfect base for walking holidays”

Many reviewers return year after year, citing the inn’s consistency and the personal touch provided by the owners and staff.

History and Heritage

The Swinside Inn’s history stretches back over 300 years, with the building itself dating to the early 17th century. The inn has served as a gathering place for locals, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts for generations. Its stone walls, exposed beams, and traditional decor reflect its heritage, while modern updates ensure guest comfort.

The Newlands Valley, where the inn is located, has a rich history of mining and agriculture. The valley’s lead and silver mines played a crucial role in the development of the region during the Elizabethan era, and remnants of this industrial past can still be seen on local walks.

Press and Media Coverage

The Swinside Inn has been featured in numerous travel articles, guidebooks, and television programs highlighting the best of the Lake District. It has appeared in “best pub” roundups in national newspapers and has been praised by food critics for its commitment to quality and local sourcing.

Notable media mentions include:

The Guardian’s “Top 10 Pubs with a View in the UK”
The Telegraph’s “Best Pubs in the Lake District”
Features in regional magazines such as Cumbria Life and Lakeland Walker

These articles often emphasize the inn’s unique combination of history, hospitality, and natural beauty.

Audience and Clientele

The Swinside Inn attracts a diverse clientele, including:

Walkers and hikers: Drawn by the proximity to popular trails and fells
Families: Appreciating the relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly amenities
Couples: Seeking a romantic getaway in a scenic setting
Locals: Enjoying the inn as a community hub and social gathering place
Tourists: From across the UK and abroad, looking for an authentic Lake District experience

The inn’s reputation for friendliness and inclusivity ensures that guests from all walks of life feel welcome.

What the Swinside Inn is Known For

The Swinside Inn is particularly renowned for:

Its views: The beer garden and dining areas offer sweeping vistas of the Newlands Valley and surrounding peaks, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Walking holidays: The inn serves as a base for exploring some of the Lake District’s most famous walks, including the Newlands Round and the ascent of Cat Bells.
Traditional hospitality: The combination of historic charm, hearty food, and welcoming staff creates a quintessentially British pub experience.
Local ales and food: The inn’s commitment to sourcing from local breweries and farms is a point of pride and a draw for foodies.

Cultural and Social Significance

As one of the oldest inns in the region, the Swinside Inn holds a special place in the cultural fabric of the Lake District. It is a living link to the area’s past, serving as a gathering place for generations of locals and visitors. The inn’s role as a hub for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts has helped foster a sense of community among those who love the Lake District’s landscapes and traditions.

The Swinside Inn also plays a part in regional events, such as walking festivals, charity fundraisers, and local celebrations. Its support for local artists, musicians, and producers further cements its role as a cultural touchstone.

Details, Insights, and Examples

Accommodation: The inn offers a range of rooms, from cozy doubles to family suites, all equipped with modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and tea/coffee-making facilities. Many rooms offer views of the surrounding fells.
Events: The Swinside Inn hosts regular events, including quiz nights, live music, and themed food evenings, which are popular with both guests and locals.
Dog-friendly: The inn is known for being dog-friendly, welcoming four-legged guests in both the pub and accommodation areas.
Sustainability: Efforts to reduce environmental impact include energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and the use of local suppliers to minimize food miles.
Examples: Guests often recount memorable evenings spent by the fire after a day’s walk, or sunny afternoons enjoying a pint in the garden while watching the sunset over Cat Bells.

The Swinside Inn stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Lake District’s traditional pubs. With its stunning location, rich history, and unwavering commitment to hospitality, it offers a unique blend of comfort, character, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned walker, a first-time visitor, or a local in search of a welcoming spot to relax, the Swinside Inn promises an experience that is both authentically Cumbrian and universally inviting.

TheSwinsideInn.com