This is a family-run business that currently own two bars located in the Lake District- one in Keswick and Windermere. The unique bar in Keswick, which opened in July 2020, has won the AA Best Pub in England award. The bar is situated right in the heart of Keswick, just over the
road from the popular Wetherspoons and a minute’s walk from the bustling marketplace.
Photos of the fascinating ceiling at the Crafty Baa in Keswick taken by Aiden Dawson
When you walk into this bar, you are welcomed by a very quirky environment unlike anywhere else, with beams and staircase banisters made from bits of driftwood, some very curious and random objects dangling from the ceiling including a birdcage, steam iron and musical instruments- where else would you find an ironing board and a traffic cone stuck to the ceiling?
There is always a fire crackling away in the corner of the downstairs seating area, the weather in the Lake District is notoriously unpredictable so if you get caught in a torrential downpour you can quickly get snuggled up in The Crafty Baa. This bar really offers everything that is rustic and country style and there is bound to be something to attract everyone’s eye.
Photo of pint of beer in front of drinks menu taken by Aiden Dawson
This bar has a vast selection of craft ales and lagers, along with other alcoholic beverages and cocktails. There is also a full menu list of non-alcoholic drinks too, so all preferences are accounted for.
Recently, they have opened their own kitchen upstairs where they cook their own food. You can treat yourself to a cheeseboard platter served on a piece of slate, or a selection of flatbread mini pizzas, and an offering of gourmet chili hot dogs. So, you have a diverse menu of things to eat as well as drink. Click here to check out the menu.
Entertainment at The Crafty Baa includes a live music evening every night Sunday to Thursday, from acoustic to jazz there is something for everyone to enjoy. Every Saturday night there is a special guest hosting live music and every Thursday night there is an open mic night.
The location of the bar is perfect for those who have just done a hike up one of the beautiful mountains, or even for those who have spent the day shopping in the bustling marketplace. Want to do a pub crawl in Keswick? The Crafty Baa is situated perfectly to tie into a pub crawl with some of the other awesome pubs in the touristy town including Wetherspoons, the Dog & Gun, the Bank Tavern and Craft Beer Keswick. It’s also not far from other tourist attractions including the Pencil Museum and The Lakeside.
Nearby caravan and campsites include Threlkeld Farm Caravan Site- check out the accessibility of this caravan site here!
While the venue is very friendly and welcoming to those of all needs, it is a small venue and when you go inside there is a lot going on.
The doorway is wide enough for a wheelchair or pushchair to get inside but there is not a great deal of space when inside.
The bar is very near to a big pay and display car-park where there is plenty of disabled parking bays. There are plenty of other car parks within walking distance around the town. From there, it is just a one-minute walk to The Crafty Baa. The nearest bus stop is a five-minute walk down the road past the car park. Taxis can also drop off right outside the bar too.
There is a disabled toilet downstairs.
The seating area offers tables for two people as well as tables for up to six people. The chairs are reasonably comfortable and there are also stools to sit at taller tables. The bar is at the back of the venue. People can sit on stools opposite the bar, and there is some small seats and table under the stairs. Upstairs is an extra seating area that is also where the kitchen is located. Unfortunately, there is not lift to get upstairs. The bar can get very busy particularly on weekends, and with it being in a touristy town.
The venue is dog-friendly. They offer dog biscuits and treats for your pets, and there are also child-friendly options on the food menu and soft drinks too.
The drinks menu includes non-alcoholic drinks too which means people can come to drink without worrying about driving or other medical requirements. There are also gluten-free beers and drinks too. The food menu offers vegetarian options.
As mentioned before, there is a lot of sensory stimuli in the room- lots of lights, sounds, objects dangling off ceilings and the place can feel claustrophobic- however, the venue does have quieter periods during the week and on day times. This might be something to consider if you are wary of autistic needs. The staff are friendly and welcoming and are sure to offer minor adjustments if you or your autistic person is struggling.
The bar offers food service from Wednesday to Sunday, please check the Crafty Baa main website for more details on food service times.
There is an option to book a table, but it is not essential. It is recommended to book a table to guarantee a seat when it is very busy.
Yes there is! The Crafty Baa is on the doorstep to plenty of bed & breakfast guest houses and the nearest hotel is a four-star hotel and it is a five-minute walk down the road. There is also plenty of nearby caravan/camp sites on the doorstep to Keswick.
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