“To be, or not to be?”

A BIT ABOUT OUR ICONIC PUB IN THE HEART OF KENDAL

When was the last time you got that feeling that you’d come home when you walked in to a pub and got a genuine warm welcome?

The Shakespeare Inn is a mid-19th Century former Coaching Inn that was sympathetically refurbished in 2018. Located in Kendal town centre, the gateway to the outstanding Lake District National Park. We offer a wide of range of fresh, locally-sourced traditional food with daily specials, Sunday Roasts and special event evenings, all complimented by Cask Marque accredited cask ales, carefully selected wines, spirits, cocktails and draught beers.

We also have accommodation, our 5 cosy en-suite rooms are stood where the stables once were in a courtyard at the back of the pub, some even have their own front door!

So whatever the reason for your visit, be it sightseeing, relaxing, something more adventurous, weekend away or day trip, the Shakespeare is the ideal place to eat, sleep and be merry. The bar is family, dog and muddy boot friendly.

“If music be the food of love, play on”

THE CHOP HOUSE AT THE SHAKESPEARE

The Chop House is the new food offering at The Shakespeare Inn. It brings together traditional pub warmth with a menu built for people who love quality food and honest cooking.

At the heart of The Chop House is our belief that food should be simple, bold and full of flavour. We work closely with trusted local suppliers to source the best cuts of meat and the freshest produce. From Cumbrian beef and pork to seasonal vegetables grown nearby, we choose ingredients that reflect the region and bring real depth to the plate.

WHAT MAKES THE CHOP HOUSE SPECIAL

Our chefs take pride in their craft. Every dish is made in-house, with care at every stage. Steaks are seared to perfection, ribs are slow cooked until tender and burgers are pressed by hand. Nothing leaves the kitchen until it has been cooked and finished with the attention it deserves.

It’s about respect for the ingredients and an understanding of how to bring out their best. A steak isn’t just grilled; it’s rested, seasoned and served with sides that let the flavour of the meat shine. A homemade pie isn’t just hearty; it’s filled with rich, slow-cooked fillings and wrapped in golden shortcrust. Even our starters and sides are designed to be memorable, from halloumi fries with a touch of honey to hand cut chips cooked in beef dripping.

A MENU WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

  • Steaks – Classic cuts served with homemade chips, peas and your choice of sauce.
  • From the Grill – Gammon, pork steaks, Cajun chicken skewers and ribs glazed in sticky barbecue.
  • Comfort Mains – Shortcrust pies, mac and cheese and full English breakfasts made with quality ingredients.
  • Burgers – Stacked with flavour and finished with toppings like cheese, bacon and crisp salad.
  • Starters and Sharers – Calamari, gambas pil pil, brisket croquettes, halloumi fries and more.
  • Desserts – Sticky toffee pudding, chocolate brownie, cheesecake and lemon meringue pie.

Whether you’re here for a steak cooked exactly how you like it, a relaxed midweek bite or a three course meal with friends, The Chop House brings quality and comfort together on every plate.

EXPERIENCE THE CHOP HOUSE

The Shakespeare is proud to be home to this new dining experience in Kendal. It’s a place for locals, visitors, families, and friends to sit down together and enjoy good food made with care. The Chop House is about more than eating out, it’s about the pride that comes from working with the best cuts, sourcing fresh ingredients and serving dishes that people want to come back for right here at the Shakespeare.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF OUR MENU

“Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow.”

LOVE US SO MUCH YOU WANT TO STAY

Myself and my husband stayed here for 1 night for our 10th wedding anniversary, the rooms were at the back away from the bar/restaurant so it was very quiet. The rooms were lovely! Very clean and cozy and even had Netflix. The staff were very friendly and welcoming and the food was fresh and delicious. I would definitely stay here again.

We had a lovely stay here from start to finish. Cozy, comfy room, very clean and great coffee and biscuits as well. The helpful, friendly chap on reception came down to  here we parked our car and carried out bags up. Thank you. Lovely Abby who served us a 5* breakfast was delightful.

My kids and I loved it! I stayed here with my 2 kids aged 16 & 14 and it was an enjoyable experience…The staff were lovely and the breakfast was very good…I would certainly recommend. Great location for a walk around Kendal.

BOOK TO STAY WITH US

“Small cheer and great welcome makes a merry feast.”

A PROPERLY RUN CELLAR MEANS WE ONLY DO PROPER PINTS…OUR G&T’S ARE JUST AS GOOD THOUGH

We know a well-run pub cellar is the unsung hero of any thriving establishment. Tucked below the bustling bar, ours is a meticulously organised haven of kegs, casks, and bottles. Temperature and humidity control are the backbone, ensuring beer, wine, and spirits remain at their best. To us cleanliness is paramount, preventing contamination and maintaining quality.

We understand that stock rotation is a craft, ensuring that the freshest beverages are always served. Our skilled Cellar Manager understands the art of tapping kegs, delivering perfect pints to the patrons. We know that the Shakespeare’s well-run cellar is the engine that drives our successful pub, guaranteeing a consistent and enjoyable experience for all.

…ARE YOU SURE WE CAN’T TEMPT YOU TO STAY?

We like to think of our Coach House as a haven of hospitality, where guests experience a blend of comfort and personal attention. The heart of any exceptional B&B lies in its warm and inviting ambiance, which starts with a welcoming host. Our rooms are meticulously maintained, providing a cozy retreat with tasteful decor, comfortable beds, and modern amenities. We also know cleanliness is paramount, ensuring a pristine environment for relaxation. In the morning, a hearty and thoughtfully prepared breakfast is the highlight waiting for you, featuring locally sourced ingredients and homemade dishes that cater to various dietary preferences. Our knowledge of the local area is a valuable asset, guiding our guests to hidden gems and attractions. We handle bookings and inquiries efficiently, ensuring a seamless guest experience. . The result is a place where our guests find not just accommodation but a home away from home, where they’re treated like cherished friends and family rather than mere travellers.

BOOK TO STAY WITH US

“Many a true word hath been spoken in jest.”

WE’RE ALWAYS A GOOD SPORT TOO

The Shakespeare also showcases a diverse range of sports from football to rugby, cricket and F1, we are the Kendal venue for sports enthusiasts. We offer a friendly and inclusive space where fans can come together to revel in the excitement of live sporting events.

Equipped with multiple large screens the pub is a mecca for sports aficionados where you can count on catching all the action. The atmosphere during major tournaments and games is always electric but separate enough from our restaurant and bar areas so you get the best of both worlds. Beyond the sports itself, a sense of community prevails and we pride on having a real sense of camaraderie where people can bond over their shared love for sports. It’s not just a place to watch games; it’s a space to create lasting memories, make new friends, and experience the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat together.

“For you, in my respect, are all the world.”

FINDING US IN KENDAL AND GETTING SOCIAL WITH US

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ADDRESS

The Shakespeare Inn, 78 Highgate, Kendal, LA9 4HE

NUMBER

01539 724069

SOCIAL

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