The King's Head

I have grave misgivings about hotels in the busiest parts of the Lake District, especially at holiday times. Obviously they will be relentlessly overcrowded, with harassed and unfriendly staff. I’ve wanted to go back to the Proper Lake District for a while though so took a risk on the King’s Head. It’s easy to find on the ear popping main road up from Grasmere, just beyond the impressive hulk of Steel Fell, close to Thirlemere. Parking anywhere in the Lakes is hideous and expensive. Not here. Relaxed and plenty of room. It’s a long building with a pleasant bar restaurant area and beer garden. I found a rather pleasant residents lounge where a lady called Jo checked me in and made me feel welcome. It does get busy with passing trade but the staff look after their residents. They flogged me decent real ale and Jura whisky (the proper stuff). Breakfast is briskly table served from a menu and is well presented. I didn’t eat otherwise there but the food is popular and well priced. The road outside is busy and a bit of a racetrack, and the occasional fighter jet roars between the mountains on low altitude practice, but the relentless bleating of the sheep opposite soon returns things to normal. I was a little sorry to depart, but the manager said he hoped I would come again. I believe I will, and will even bring my wife.

We had a lovely stay. The atmosphere was amazing, the staff were very friendly and helpful. The Inn is this amazing old building that’s creaky and has historical atmosphere. The place is very clean. The rooms are warm and clean and the ensuite was clean, the road noise was dulled down by the double glazed windows. The breakfast and meals were delicious. The out door patio area is a great place to sit and meet others. There is road noise but doesn’t take anything away from the lovely surroundings.

Last minute booking but we will definitely return. Cosy seating area, lovely food, friendly staff and an excellent base for walking, particularly Helvellyn.