In a city as old and with as much history as Carlisle, it is not remiss to see quite a few pubs all over. Located at the border city between England and Scotland, a former Roman fortification settlement means that the town is rich in heritage. A fact that has influenced the whole, and the local pubs are no exception. While some are the traditional pubs with the whole complete and dark cosy feel to them, others are more modern with a range of offerings.
Best Pubs in Carlisle
1. The Kings Head
2. BrewDog Carlisle
3. The Crown Inn
4. Spinners Arms
5. Thin White Duke
5 Best Pubs in Carlisle
Here are some of the best places to get a few drinks and maybe some pub grub while hanging out with locals and tourists in Carlisle.
1. The King’s Head
If you are in Carlisle, like ale or simply don’t mind trying something new with your drinks, then visiting the King’s Head is a must. The pub is reputed to be the oldest hostelry in Carlisle; some say it has been in existence since 1133 A.D. The pub’s current building dates back to sometime in the 17th century.
The Kings Head is right in the very center of Carlisle and is just a few stops away from everywhere. It is located just behind the Town Hall and just a stone’s throw away from the Guildhall. It is really one of those places you can stumble upon while exploring the Castle, Cathedral, or shopping in the Lanes.
You know a bar is good if it has earned multiple awards for its drinks, and that’s exactly what this pub has. King’s Head has won multiple awards courtesy of Solway CAMRA, all thanks to its cask ale and collection of beers. While the ale and beer might be the highlight of King’s Head, that alone doesn’t dominate the menu. The pub is also known for serving spirits, wines, soft drinks, and even the much-needed tea and coffee request here and there. You can also get a late brunch or early dinner at the King’s Head before 3:00 pm.
King’s Head has the whole low wooden beam and chairs, and live music from the Courtyard going for it. But that is all part of the charm.
Location: 31 Fisher Street, Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Price Range: £10 – 25
2. BrewDog Carlisle
BrewDog is a no-nonsense Scottish chain of craft breweries that makes some of the best craft beers in the United Kingdom. The Carlisle branch is located just a few ways away from the city’s train station. The pub is pretty modern, especially when compared to older traditional drinking houses in the city. What it lacks in heritage, though, it makes up for in its beers.
The pub has a line-up of 28 craft beer taps on-site, from lagers to stouts and ales to IPAs. They also have a pretty impressive deli-fridge stocked with cans and bottles if you prefer that or want to stock up at home. Not a fan of beers? No worries, BrewDog also has a stock of wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks, so you never feel left out.
The highlight for many, other than the drinks, of course, is that your drinks can be paired with good food. Their sourdough pizza and sandwich sub melts with fries make for a hearty meal while chatting with friends. It is the perfect spot for a group hangout or after after-work dinner with friends.
Location: 36 – 38, Botchergate, Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Price Range: £5 – £15
3. Best Pubs in Carlisle: Crown Inn
Not to be confused with the Crown Inn at Scotland Road. The Crown Inn is a small country inn that the locals love and tourists randomly stumble upon by chance. With its snug, low-beamed interior and a real fire crackling through the colder months, it’s the kind of place that you picture when you think of a country pub. As a plus, when the sun’s out, the outdoor seating area is just a nice quiet place to sip your drink. While people are watching, and if the weather permits
The menu at Crown Inn sticks to comforting classics, and burgers and fries are a local favorite. They have also expanded over the years, adding a quality restaurant space that feels warm and unpretentious. It is the perfect place if you are after a solid pint of beer or cider, a proper meal, or just a friendly spot to rest your feet and have a chat with the locals.
Location: Broadfield Common, Ivegill, Dalston, Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Price Range: £20 – £35
4. Spinners Arm
The Spinners Arms is a family-owned and run pub that has been running just outside Carlisle forever. The pub, like any typical English pub, has a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Such as the fact that both kids and dogs are happily welcome and included in the pub.
The building itself is historical_like many things in Carlisle. It was built in 1930 as part of the Carlisle State Management Scheme and designed by Harry Redfern, and is still a standout example of its kind. TheGrade II listed building still boasts many original features, open fires, rich wood panelling, beautifully tiled fireplaces, and a slanted roof.
While the building is iconic, everyone comes to the pub because of their great craft beer. Spinners Arms has been featured in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide every single year since 2008, and is also a three-time Solway CAMRA Pub of the Season winner. Even more impressive? They have their own microbrewery onsite, running since 2013 and brewing up classic British-style ales and beers every day.
Location: Cummersdale, Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Price Range: £5 – £10
5. Thin White Duke
Since opening its doors in 2010, The Thin White Duke has quickly become one of Carlisle’s most stylish hangouts. The perfect place for a drink or maybe a first date hangout. Located right in the heart of the city, it is a favourite for anyone who enjoys a well-made cocktail, a decent pint of rum or spirits, or a tasty gin, especially during their daily “Gin O’Clock” ritual at 4:45 PM, which regulars tend to treat as sacred.
The kitchen is also one of the reasons people keep going back. It turns out to be a delicious mix of simple gourmet dishes every day, all made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From burgers and fries to chicken in a basket and Sunday roast. The dessert is also to die for; sticky toffee pudding or chocolate cake, or a lemon tart. The food is not just good; it’s earned a loyal following over the years.
Whether you are there for a laid-back lunch, a dinner date, or a simple hangout to interact with locals, the Thin White Duke has perfected the art of homey but modern, stylish but cool, and relaxing.
Location: 1 Devonshire Street, Carlisle, Cumbria, United Kingdom
Price Range: £20 – £30
Conclusion
If you are a die-hard ale connoisseur or a beer fan, then you will without a doubt love the beers at Carlisle. It doesn’t matter if you love the cosy communal feel of traditional pubs where old locals regale you with ancient tales or the stylish modern ones where you can go for a date. You just know you are going to have a good time either way.
