Shepherds Inn, Penrith

This is a large pub or hotel, with the present premises seemingly put together from two buildings made of local red sandstone. This seems like a quiet village, though there are a number of businesses based here, including a caravan park and a bakery. The fact that this pub has had recent periods of closure suggests that trade is not necessarily booming though. The present owners have got it looking very smart and welcoming, and with its dark beams and stone floor the main bar room is very pleasant. There are three hand pumps on the bar with local beers available (see photo). I had an interesting conversation with the only other customer, and was able to disabuse him of his misconception of the Yorkshire-Lancashire border with regard to Bradford and Huddersfield. Not vital information if you never stray from Cumbria, I grant, but quite likely a matter of life or death if in one of those great cities. This is a handy refreshment stop before the long grind up Hartside and I was glad to take advantage of it on this occasion.

Official site of Shepherds Inn - www.theshepherdsinnmelmerby.co.uk

Official site of Shepherds Inn - www.theshepherdsinnmelmerby.co.uk