Dockray Hall Historic Inn
A historic inn serving classic pub fare with a focus on quality ingredients and a rich past, once home to King Richard III.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Renowned Sunday roast
Dockray Hall Historic Inn
Best Time
Renowned Sunday roast
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic inn serving classic pub fare with a focus on quality ingredients and a rich past, once home to King Richard III.
"The Sunday roast is legendary, piled high with homemade Yorkshire pudding and unforgettable carrots."
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
The Sunday roast is legendary; book your table in advance to avoid disappointment!
🥕 Don't Skip the Carrots!
Seriously, the carrots are a highlight. Sweet, soft, and unforgettable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legendary Sunday Roast
Dining Room
Piled high with perfectly cooked beef, homemade Yorkshire pudding, and unforgettable carrots.
Herdwick Lamb Stew
Dining Room
A rich and delicious stew, often served with a herby dumpling, a true taste of Cumbria.
Historic Ambiance
Throughout the Inn
Experience centuries of history in a classic pub setting, once a residence of King Richard III.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Savoring the Flavors of History
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
The Sunday roast is legendary; book your table in advance to avoid disappointment!
🥕 Don't Skip the Carrots!
Seriously, the carrots are a highlight. Sweet, soft, and unforgettable.
🍺 Superb Ale Selection
Enjoy a well-kept pint of local ales like Loweswater Gold.
🎶 Check for Live Music
Evenings can be enhanced by live music performances.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Sunday Roast Ahead
The Sunday roast is legendary; book your table in advance to avoid disappointment!
🥕 Don't Skip the Carrots!
Seriously, the carrots are a highlight. Sweet, soft, and unforgettable.
🍺 Superb Ale Selection
Enjoy a well-kept pint of local ales like Loweswater Gold.
🎶 Check for Live Music
Evenings can be enhanced by live music performances.
🍔 Burger Bun Tip
If you prefer less soggy buns, ask for wet extras on the side.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners consistently praise Dockray Hall Historic Inn for its exceptional pub food, particularly the legendary Sunday roast and hearty stews. The historic ambiance and friendly, professional staff are also frequently highlighted as major draws. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, occasional comments mention minor issues like burger bun sogginess, which are usually handled with excellent customer service.
"Visited this place for lunch earlier this week. It was a dreary Wednesday and very quiet inside.
While we were there my wife and I shared 4 pints of ale, the Cumberland sausage and mash, and the Herdwick stew.
All I can say is the food was absolutely excellent; probably the best pub food we've had in the last 18 months. The young lady that attended to us was so nice too, you just knew she was a proper hard worker.
Give it a try, you won't be disappointed"
Ian James
"I came here with my family for a meal, I had the Greek Steak, and they shared the woodland forage.
The steak was not good, the meat was tough and chewy. However the woodland forage was excellent! Had different beers including ales which were superb as well!
The lady who served us was also excellent. She sorted the issue with utmost professionalism! As someone who works at a pub, this is what I expect!
The evening became even better as there was live music, and we got a great performance!
I will come back!"
Anirudh Kartik
"Stumbled across this gem on a lazy Sunday and decided to roll the dice on dinner. Best gamble I’ve made in a long time. We were seated straight away and went in hard on two roast beef dinners. They landed looking like a Sunday roast should: piled high, cooked with care, and crowned with a proper homemade Yorkshire pudding that meant business. Every trimming was present and correct. Not a scrap was left—yes, even the cabbage and the cauliflower cheese, which I usually treat as edible punishment. And then there was the carrot. Sweet, soft, and without question the best carrot I’ve ever eaten. If they sold them by the pint, I’d order two.
The pub itself? The kind of place that hasn’t been ruined by “quirky” refurbishments—just solid, classic decor with centuries of history still humming through the beams. King Richard III even lived here briefly, which makes sense: if the roast was half this good back then, no wonder he hung around. Staff were friendly without hovering, drinks list more than up to scratch. Honestly, one of the best Sunday roasts I’ve had in ages. Plenty of choice, plenty of food, zero regrets. And yes, I’m still thinking about that carrot."
Harry Houghton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dockray Hall Historic Inn is located in Penrith. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. If arriving by public transport, Penrith train station is nearby, and local bus services can take you closer to the inn.
Yes, there is parking available for guests at Dockray Hall Historic Inn, making it convenient for those traveling by car.
While the historic nature of the inn might present some challenges, staff are known for their helpfulness. It's best to contact them directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book a table, especially for their popular Sunday roast or during peak hours, to ensure you get a spot.
Opening hours can vary, but the inn typically serves food throughout the day and into the evening. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most current hours.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Dockray Hall Historic Inn. It operates as a traditional pub and restaurant, so you only pay for food and drinks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dockray Hall serves classic pub grub, including burgers, steak, fish 'n' chips, Cumberland sausage, and Herdwick stew. Their Sunday roast is particularly famous. +2
While specific options aren't always detailed, pubs often have vegetarian choices. It's best to inquire about vegetarian or vegan dishes when booking or upon arrival.
The Sunday roast beef dinner is a standout, praised for its generous portions and homemade Yorkshire pudding. The Herdwick lamb stew and the 'woodland forage' dish have also received high marks. +2
Yes, they offer a good selection of beers, including local ales like Loweswater Gold, as well as other beverages. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The historic beams, classic decor, and cozy fireplace areas offer great photo opportunities. The food presentation, especially the Sunday roast, is also very photogenic.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside Dockray Hall to capture the historic ambiance and your dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historic nature might mean some areas are less accessible, the staff are known for being friendly and accommodating. It's a great spot for a relaxed family lunch or dinner where everyone can enjoy traditional, comforting food in a setting steeped in history.
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
Enjoying a pint in the historic setting, perhaps with some live music in the evening, provides a truly authentic pub experience. It’s a place where the quality of the beer is as important as the quality of the food.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Cumbrian History
Visitors often remark on the timeless atmosphere, a welcome respite from the usual 'quirky' refurbishments found elsewhere. This historical backdrop enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel a little more special. Whether you're enjoying a pint or a hearty meal, you're essentially dining in a piece of living history.
Culinary Delights: Beyond Pub Grub
The Sunday roast, in particular, is a highlight for many, described as being 'piled high' with all the traditional trimmings, including a proper homemade Yorkshire pudding and, notably, some of the best carrots diners have ever tasted. Even dishes like burgers, while sometimes having a slightly soggy bun due to toppings, are generally considered tasty. The kitchen's commitment to quality ingredients and careful preparation shines through, making it a destination for food lovers.
Complementing the food is an excellent selection of local ales, with Loweswater Gold frequently mentioned as a well-kept and tasty option. The staff's attentiveness and professionalism, even when addressing minor issues, further contribute to a positive dining experience.
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