Tea and biscuits, fish and chips, salt and vinegar… These are just some of the world’s most synonymous pairings. Some things are just better together and when it comes to a British staycation, you can’t go wrong with a pub quiz.
In the UK, we’re very lucky to have such a diverse, interesting and beautiful landscape, including the ever-popular Lake District. A land of towering mountains, tranquil lakes and enchanting market towns, it’s an ideal destination for your next caravan or motorhome adventure.
We Brits have a charming habit of combining outdoor activities in serene backdrops with pub culture, but finding one with a quiz that’s worth staying for isn’t always as easy as it sounds.
Luckily, the experts at Pure Leisure have unearthed the top five hidden gems in the Lake District pub quiz scene, in no particular order.
The Mardale Inn, Bampton
The Mardale Inn is a cosy, wholesome pub with a strong community feel. It serves both local ales alongside beverages you’d expect from any pub worth its salt, with tantalising food and, most importantly, a brilliant monthly quiz.
Local pubs with a strong sense of community are a Lake District staple, but The Mardale Inn is different. In 2022, the establishment had been closed for five years. However, 500 members of Bampton Valley Community Pub rallied together to raise £400,000 and purchase it.
The Sun Inn, Bassenthwaite
A traditional country pub, complete with muddy boots and paws, as well as cycle racks for anyone taking a quick break from their exercise to see off a pint or two.
The Sun Inn is immersed in beautiful greenery and always packed with charming, friendly locals. It hosts various charity quizzes for great causes, with recent participants raising £400 for Keswick Mountain Rescue.
The Pheasant Inn, Allithwaite
Family-run since 2005, The Pheasant Inn offers something that makes it unique – a free supper with the pub quiz. An authentic display of Cumbrian hospitality if we’ve ever seen one and, considering the quiz costs only £2 to enter, it’s certainly a local favourite.
The main bar area of the Mortal Man dates as far back as 1689 and it has always been a public house. Originally known as the ‘White House’, it was nicknamed ‘Mortal Man’ after the late 19th century carol of the same name.
The Mortal Man Inn, Windermere
Another scenic pub in the British countryside, The Mortal Man sits high on the edge of a valley near Windermere. This is a traditional, old-school venue, offering classic ales to enjoy in a setting of vintage decor and wooden ceiling beams.
Every Wednesday, locals rendezvous at The Mortal Man for its interactive pub quiz, featuring a mix of classic questions and exciting games. It’s slightly different every time, so you can always expect a treat.
The Royal Barn, Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery
This establishment opened its doors in 2016 and immediately became a fan favourite. Astutely nicknamed ‘The Barn’, it perfectly blends both the modern and traditional, with 12 hand pulls and eight taps to boot.
The Barn’s mix of contemporary and industrial aesthetics was thoughtfully considered to give it a unique yet cosy feel. To match, its pub quizzes offer slightly more production value than many and the ticketed events have plenty of prizes to be won.
Photo credit: ANNA B / Pexels
