"A proper pub in Bowness. Not like most of the bars here."
The nomad from United Kingdom
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"The dining area and bar food was good"
William from United Kingdom
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"A very convenient location with free on-site parking."
David from United Kingdom
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"excellent location, great food, friendly staff."
Emma from United Kingdom
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3-star traditional inn at the finish of The Dales Way Walk in Bowness-on-Windermere
Location & Heritage
The Royal Oak Inn has been family-run since 1995 and stands 100 yards from the end of The Dales Way Walk, earning its reputation as The Finishing Pub for that long-distance trail. The building is set on a steep hill just above Bowness's main streets, with Bowness Bay Pier for steamship cruises across Lake Windermere less than 5 minutes' walk away. Free private parking is available on site, and Windermere Railway Station is 1.5 miles from the property.
Rooms & Amenities
All en-suite rooms are located above the bar over two floors and include tea and coffee making facilities, a TV, and a radio alarm clock. The hotel is adults-only and offers non-smoking accommodation throughout, with heating provided in each room. Daily housekeeping, luggage storage, and private check-in/check-out services are available for guests.
Dining
Guests can enjoy a renowned full English breakfast, along with homemade bar meals served daily from 12pm to 8:30pm (closed on Christmas Day). Dishes are prepared using locally sourced produce, and the property offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Special diet menus and wine or champagne are also available on request.
Nearby Attractions
Bowness Bay Pier offers steamship cruises across Lake Windermere, and The World of Beatrix Potter is within a 5-minute walk of the property. Traditional craft and gift shops line the streets of Bowness, and the Lake District's walking trails are easily accessible from the inn. Windermere Railway Station is 1.5 miles away, with bus stops on the main road just 2 minutes from the hotel.
Additional Services
The hotel provides 24-hour security, CCTV in common areas and outside the property, smoke alarms, and fire extinguishers throughout the building. Packed lunches can be arranged for guests exploring the fells, and invoice provision is offered for business travellers. Outdoor furniture is available in the garden and on the patio, and the bar has real ales kept in excellent condition.
Highlights
Location: At the finish of The Dales Way Walk, 5 min from the lake
Rooms: En-suite rooms above a traditional bar
Dining: Full English breakfast & homemade bar meals with local produce
Special Diets: Vegan, vegetarian & gluten-free options
Parking: Free private parking on site
Family Run: Since 1995 with direct local knowledge
Must-do experiences
Take a scenic walk along Windermere Lake to witness stunning views.
Visit the quirky Old Laundry Theatre for local performing arts.
Savor a slice of homemade sticky toffee pudding at The Rayrigg.
Explore the unique exhibits at the Lakeland Motor Museum nearby.
Join a peaceful kayak tour on Windermere for a new perspective.
Choose your room category
The Royal Oak Inn offers double, family, and suite rooms throughout the Lake District, all including breakfast, free cancellation, and seasonal deals
Economy Ensuite Single Room No available
2 persons
12 m²
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Budget Double Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
En Suite Double Room
2 persons
15 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Room Rates & Availability Calendar
See current rates and availability for the Lake District now!
Amenities
The Royal Oak Inn provides amenities designed for a relaxing stay and memorable moments
Facilities: Great
8.4/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Adults only
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Services
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Room features
Heating
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Where to Find The Royal Oak Inn
Brantfell Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3EG,
Map view
City landmarks
Park
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
800 m
Landmark
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
800 m
Landmark
Lake Windermere
4.47 km
Museum
National Trust Hill Top
3.48 km
Landmark
The Fun Factory Bowness
920 m
Gallery
Blackwell The Arts and Crafts House
2.25 km
Landmark
Belle Isle
960 m
Theatre
The Old Laundry Theatre
800 m
Landmark
Windermere Steamboat Museum
1.71 km
Landmark
Cockshott Point
820 m
Landmark
Brant Fell Viewpoint
910 m
Landmark
Aquarius Amusements
920 m
Square
The Glebe
920 m
Gallery
Cook House Gallery
1.93 km
Gallery
Thuline Studio
1.95 km
Landmark
High Street
2.11 km
Store
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
1.14 km
Landmark
Orrest Head
2.78 km
Landmark
Storrs
1.22 km
Landmark
Windy Hall
1.27 km
Landmark
Queen's Park
1.73 km
Landmark
St Mary's Church
2.06 km
Gallery
North South Gallery
1.83 km
Landmark
Claife Heights
2.19 km
Bay
Mitchell Wyke Ferry Bay
2.49 km
Landmark
Windermere
4.47 km
Nearby
Church
St Martin's Church
490 m
Station Road
St Michael and All Angels Church
490 m
Store
Love the Lakes
490 m
Bowness Bay
490 m
Restaurants
Vinegar Jones
90 m
Royal Square
Bowness Bites
10 m
3 Belsfield Terrace
The Cornish Bakery
120 m
Lake Road Royal Square
Lewis's Coffee Shop
510 m
Bowness Pier The Promenade Bowness Pier
Graze
270 m
Crag Brow House Helm Road
Seafarers
260 m
Rayrigg Rd
Dr Brews Coffee
320 m
3 Grosvenor Terrace
The Alpine
330 m
1 Grosvenor Terrace
Taylors of Bowness
380 m
50 Quarry Rigg
Picnic Cabin
400 m
Lake Road Royalty Buildings
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Explore Bowness-on-Windermere
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
10 minutes' walk
A charming exhibition celebrating Beatrix Potter's beloved characters through detailed displays and delightful garden areas.
Windermere Jetty Museum of Boats
10 minutes' walk
An insightful museum showcasing traditional boats and the region's maritime heritage, featuring interactive exhibits.
National Trust Hill Top
16-minute drive
The former home of Beatrix Potter, this house offers a glimpse into her life and inspiration, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Lake Windermere
17-minute drive
The largest lake in England, perfect for scenic boat trips, walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Windermere Canoe and Kayak
15 minutes' walk
Kayak rentals available for all skill levels, providing an exciting way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Windermere.
Bowness Bay
6 minutes' walk
A tranquil spot ideal for picnics and leisurely walks, with stunning views of the lake and access to boat tours.
The Fun Factory Bowness
12 minutes' walk
An exciting indoor play area perfect for families, featuring slides, ball pits, and fun activities for children of all ages.
Holehird Gardens
8-minute drive
Beautifully landscaped gardens offering a peaceful retreat with diverse plant life, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Bowness Bites
1 minute' walk
A casual eatery focusing on fresh local ingredients, offering hearty breakfast options and artisanal sandwiches.
Vinegar Jones
2 minutes' walk
A local favorite for its fish and chips, set in a cozy atmosphere, catering to both dine-in and takeaway customers.
Graze
4 minutes' walk
An inviting restaurant featuring international cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and delightful desserts.
The Cornish Bakery
2 minutes' walk
Famous for its pasties and baked goods, this bakery delights with fresh, handmade treats in a welcoming environment.
The Old Laundry Theatre
10 minutes' walk
A vibrant venue hosting a variety of performances, including theater, music, and comedy shows, catering to diverse audiences.
Aquarius Amusements
12 minutes' walk
Family-friendly amusement arcade featuring classic games and activities, perfect for a fun evening out for all ages.
Local transport options
City Centre
Bowness-on-Windermere 3 min · 200 m
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 124 min · 82.4 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 150 min · 99.7 km
Bus
Bus stop 27 min · 2.2 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-20:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
Spanish, Polish
Number of rooms:
6
Guest Reviews & Ratings
Read what past guests have said about their stay at The Royal Oak Inn
Cleanliness
8.8/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Facilities
8.4/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.7/10
Pros
Characterful pub
Central location
Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Good breakfast
Cons
Small rooms
Maintenance issues
Guest reviews
based on 1179 reviews
8.6/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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