Close Icon
A hiker and their dog hiking in the mountains of the Lake District
20th June 2011

Beer Festival, Masons Arms Strawberry Bank – Review

This time of year is great if you are a fan of the country pub. Light, long nights allow full utilisation of the often gorgeous beer gardens and it’s the time when most choose to host their beer festivals. Few who I can think of have more spectacular views and outside areas than the Masons Arms at Strawberry Bank (near Bowness), and what better excuse to venture there than their Annual Beer Festival. I had seen their advertising on the side of the road on my way to work one slightly grey June morning and thought it was the ideal location for Fridays after work drinks.

Gathering a group of about ten friends we occupied about three of the outdoor tables, which have the luxury of huge umbrellas and lovely patio heater – clearly these people know a thing or two about the Lake District!

There were vast amounts of beers on offer…it would have been somewhat dangerous to sample them all, but we between us we gave it a good go, and the information supplied in booklets around the place was detailed and interesting. The staff are always fantastic up there and although we chose not to eat, the food smelled delicious, and I confirm this as I have many a time popped in for the famous BBQ ribs that are absolutely sensational!

Before we knew it time had marched on and we were all taking part in a quiz, the packed beer garden had a team per table and we were all more than pleased with the arrival of a complimentary cheese plate! And to top of a truly great night…our team WON (you guessed it – a crate of Thwaites Wainwright Golden Ale).

This pub really deserves a visit, we had a great night, excellent ales, great company, and brilliant staff….

Even better news….there is another beer festival this weekend…. The Punchbowl at Underbarrow…what another excellent excuse!!