The Castle Bar

Cockermouth, Cumbria. The earliest parts of the building date back to at least the 16th or 17th century, and historians believe it was originally constructed as a grand private residence for a wealthy local merchant. By 1811 local records show the premises operating as the Ship Hotel. Later in the 19th century it became a traditional public house known as the Ship Inn. Eventually it was renamed the Castle Bar, due to its close proximity to the medieval Cockermouth Castle.

The interior contains a wealth of centuries old features, including exposed stonework, massive fireplaces, traditional beamed ceilings, and an antique handpump system. The ground floor houses a standard bar and lounge area with a snug-like area, and in the back is a larger room leading to three-tiered, south facing sun-trap terrace. Upstairs are three function rooms and dining areas. I got a chuckle out of the signs for the toilets. A nice selection of local beers to choose from (including from the aforementioned Jennings and Loweswater breweries). I selected a new one to me - Crag Classic Northern Bitter from Fell Brewery (Cumbria) and settled in to watch the Arsenal match.