A haven for locals and visitors for generations, The King’s Arms takes centre stage in the Lake District village of Hawkshead. The whitewashed walls of this 17th-century coaching inn are a picture postcard scene, whatever the Cumbrian weather happens to throw at you. And, after an extensive, sympathetic renovation, the inn reopened its doors in August of this year, stepping into a new chapter that honours its past while making room for contemporary comfort.

The refurbishment is unapologetically local in spirit — led by Cumbrian tradespeople, respectful of oak beams, stone fireplaces and slate floors, and shepherded by owner Jo McGowan, it’s given Hawkshead a pub that truly belongs to the community. The result is classic and calm: a place that looks traditional in photos but feels fresh in practice.

The welcome

Part of Hawkshead’s charm is that its centre has been largely car-free for over 50 years

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