Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite Lake

Georgian coaching house now a smart hote and included in this list for its public bar which is unchanged in 70 years. The layout is of a small area in front of the bar counter and an alcove of similar size through a segmented arch. On the inside of the arch is an early gas fire, possibly from the 1930s, and a long thin mirror on the other side. The bar counter and bar back are at least 70 years old and the original handpumps are situated on the bar back. The dado panelling and plaster walls have been lacquered over many times and there are some ancient settles.

On the passage-side there is a two-part glazed hatch with the words ‘Waiters Only’ and two other glazed panels – all early 20th-century work. The lounge bar, which can only be used by residents or diners, has a 1930s parquet floor, a stone fireplace of similar age and is served via a hatch with two shutter-like door. This upmarket hotel also has a two-part lounge on the left with old fireplace and service bell in the first part, and a dining room on the right. A major refurbishment of the hotel was completed in 2022 but left the old bar area untouched. However, a new public bar was created to the right of the entrance and although the old bar remains fully equipped for service, it only comes into use at busy periods. You can, though, sit there at any time.