"The food at this restaurant was amazing with huge portion sizes and well presented food."
M M from United Kingdom
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"Fantastic location for footpaths to Helvellyn. Also bus stop outside pub that runs regularly in both directions."
Katharine from United Kingdom
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"The hotel is at the top of its game , everything and everyone tied in to make a guest feel very much wanted."
phillip m from United Kingdom
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"Location was great, right in the heart of the Lake District!"
Lucy from New Zealand
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Historic 17th-Century Coaching Inn at the Foot of Mount Helvellyn
Award-Winning Dining
The King's Head houses the award-winning St John's Restaurant, which serves a creative four-course seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced food. The on-site bar offers a diverse drink selection that includes local ales and fine wines. Guests can also explore the Lakeland Speciality Store, which stocks local food, drinks, and gifts from the finest Cumbrian producers.
Accommodations & Amenities
The hotel offers 17 en suite bedrooms, including doubles and twins, all with views of the surrounding fells and accommodating various group sizes. Room amenities include flat-screen TVs, free toiletries, and tea/coffee makers. Pet-friendly accommodations are available upon request, and complimentary WiFi and free self-parking are provided.
Location & Outdoor Access
Situated at the foot of Mount Helvellyn, the hotel is close to the shores of Lake Thirlmere and numerous walking paths. Major attractions such as Castlerigg Stone Circle and Keswick Museum and Art Gallery are within easy reach. The hotel also provides a scenic garden and outdoor spaces for relaxation, with sunset views toward St Johns in the Vale, Blencathra, and Skiddaw.
Family-Friendly Facilities
The hotel offers family rooms and provides kids' meals and special diet menus upon request. Meeting and banquet facilities are available for family gatherings and special events. Daily housekeeping and packed lunches are offered to support family excursions.
Business & Practical Services
The hotel includes meeting and banquet facilities for business or group functions. Fax and photocopying services are available for guest convenience. Safety features include CCTV in common areas and outside the property, fire extinguishers, smoke alarms, and a security alarm.
Highlights
Dining: Award-winning St John's Restaurant with a four-course seasonal menu
Location: At the foot of Mount Helvellyn and near Lake Thirlmere
Views: Sunset views of St Johns in the Vale, Blencathra, and Skiddaw
Rooms: 17 en suite bedrooms with fell views
Extras: Lakeland Speciality Store with local Cumbrian products
Family: Family rooms and kids' meals available
“The King's Head Inn presents a compelling blend of its historical roots with modern comforts, set against the backdrop of Thirlmere's striking scenery. Its quiet location is surprisingly accessible, with the staff consistently noted for their warm and accommodating nature, and the food, particularly breakfast, receives high praise for freshness and abundance. It stands as a well-situated, comfortable base for exploring the Lake District, offering a genuinely pleasant stay.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Ukcumbria
Select your room type
The King'S Head offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Twin Room
2 persons
25 m²
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
25 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Single Room
2 persons
18 m²
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Facilities
The King'S Head offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.7/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
Safe deposit box
No pets allowed
Security
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Cycling
Golf course
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Children's menu
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
Show more
Dining Onsite
St John's Restaurant at The King's Head offers a delightful selection of British cuisine crafted to cater to diverse dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. The family-friendly and traditional atmosphere invites guests to gather for hearty meals, making it a perfect stop for every meal throughout the day.
St John's Restaurant
British
Ambiance
Family-friendly, traditional setting with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Key Offerings
Breakfast favorites to energize your day, satisfying lunch options, and a comforting dinner menu that reflects local flavors.
Reservation
No reservations needed
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The King'S Head Location
Thirlspot, Thirlmere, CA12 4TN,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Thirlmere
1.61 km
Landmark
Stannah Gill Lead Mine
1.41 km
Landmark
Thirlmere Embankment
1.41 km
Landmark
Castle Crag Fort
2.04 km
Landmark
Launchy Gill
2.51 km
Landmark
Raise
2.83 km
Landmark
Lake District Ski Club - Raise
2.84 km
Landmark
Fornside Copper Mine
2.88 km
Landmark
Thirlspot Copper Mine
2.91 km
Landmark
High Tove
3.11 km
Landmark
Helvellyn Lead Mine
3.04 km
Landmark
Wythburn Lead Mine
3.07 km
Landmark
Brown Cove Lead Mine
3.19 km
Landmark
Keppel Cove Dam
3.27 km
Landmark
Helvellyn
3.72 km
Landmark
Derwent Water
6.5 km
Landmark
ruined chimney
3.5 km
Church
Wythburn Church
4.24 km
Landmark
Castlerigg Stone Circle
6.4 km
Landmark
Avro 585 Gosport Plane Landing plaque
3.74 km
Landmark
Red Tarn
3.94 km
Landmark
chimney flue
3.82 km
Landmark
Reecastle Crag Hillfort
4.18 km
Landmark
Surprise View
5.02 km
Landmark
Catstye Cam Lead Mine
4.29 km
Landmark
Glencoynedale Baryte Mine
4.45 km
Bridge
Ashness Bridge
5.05 km
Landmark
Watendlath Tarn
4.49 km
Landmark
Hart Side
4.66 km
Landmark
Greenside Lead Mine
4.66 km
Nearby
Thirlspot Copper Mine
570 m
Restaurants
King's Head Inn
110 m
Lakeside Hotel A591
Explore Thirlmere
Explore Thirlspot
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Thirlmere
20 minutes' walk
A spectacular reservoir surrounded by mountains, perfect for scenic walks and photography.
Stannah Gill Lead Mine
15 minutes' walk
Historic lead mine with remnants from the 19th century, showcasing the region's mining heritage.
Thirlmere Embankment
15 minutes' walk
Picturesque embankment ideal for leisurely strolls with stunning views of the lake and hills.
Castle Crag Fort
25 minutes' walk
A historic fort with panoramic views, offering insight into the area's military past.
Hiking at Helvellyn
40 minutes' walk
Thrilling hikes on one of England's highest peaks, suitable for adventurous guests.
Yoga at Thirlmere
20 minutes' walk
Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions with lake views, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
King's Head Inn
2 minutes' walk
Traditional pub serving local dishes; enjoy cozy seating and hearty meals perfect for families.
Live Music at The King's Head
2 minutes' walk
Regular evenings featuring local bands in a lively atmosphere; fun for all ages.
Getting around
City Centre
Thirlmere 21 min · 1.7 km
Airports
Carlisle Lake District (CAX) 103 min · 68.2 km
Blackpool International (BLK) 185 min · 123.2 km
Bus
Bus stop 12 min · 7.9 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 14.95 per person.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Spanish, Dutch, Romanian
Number of rooms:
17
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The King'S Head from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.0/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
9.5/10
Value for money
8.9/10
Pros
Superb location
Cosy bar/restaurant
Really good breakfast
Friendly staff
Cons
Dirty bathroom
Thin walls
Outdated rooms
Guest reviews
based on 1108 reviews
4/5
based on 2032 reviews
8.9/10
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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