Badger Bar@The Glen Rothay Hotel, Ambleside

Seventeenth century inn with a large dose of Victorian gothic thrown in, with the general feel of a run-down small hotel coming back to life as a pub. Quite splendid however. Four good local ales and excellent food. Large outdoor area. 10% discount on ales for CAMRA members. Recommended, and potential to get even better.

The building dates from 1624, the fireback has the date 1627 on it, and the wood panelling above the mantel piece is dated 1679. The main room, which is to one side of the bar, has obviously been altered at some time as the fireplace is not symmetrically placed, but there is still a genuinely old feel about the place, which is not dispelled by the slightly spooky carved badger in the corner. There are four real ales on the hand pumps, and the friendly bar attendant was able to describe them knowledgeably. All are from Cumbrian breweries, including Cartmel Hurdler, Cumberland Corby Ale and Blonde, plus Dent Ramsbottom from slightly further afield. I had the Ramsbottom, which at 4.5% is slightly strong when driving, but the others were all on the pale and hoppy side for my taste. Anyway, it went down a treat and I was able to navigate safely back over Kirkstone Pass afterwards, so no harm done.