Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery is to re-open the historic Kirkstone Pass Inn, the highest pub in Cumbria and the second highest in England.
The 15th-century inn, established in 1496 and situated at almost 1,500 feet above sea level, has been closed for nearly five years. The bar is set to re-open in late March, following refurbishment works.
The acquisition gives the brewery control of one of the Lake District’s most recognisable hospitality sites, a destination venue that attracts walkers, cyclists, and motorists.
Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery, established in 2009, has grown into one of Cumbria’s best-known independent brewers. Its beers, including Ruskin’s, Tiffin Gold, Monumental, and Jubilee Stout, are poured in pubs and venues across the North West.
Owner Stu Taylor says taking on the pub aligns with the company’s long-term strategy of strengthening brand presence through destination-led venues.
Stu Taylor
“We’ve been looking for the right pub for some time,” he said. “It needed to be somewhere iconic, somewhere that aligns with our brand and our values. The Kirkstone Pass Inn is exactly that — it’s a destination site with incredible heritage and natural footfall.”
The venue will showcase Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery’s portfolio of beers, with potential for site-specific branding. The site’s scale, including a large beer garden and established accommodation offering, under separate management, provides strong seasonal trading opportunities and should appeal to tourism-driven customers as well as regulars from the local area.
“It’s a unique trading environment,” added Stu. “You have built-in tourism, incredible visibility, and a setting that’s genuinely world class. The moment this opportunity came up, we knew it was the one. We’re incredibly proud to be bringing it back to life.”
