Business Details
Open 24/7
always available
The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel - Historic Accommodation in the Lake District
The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, nestled in the heart of the Lake District's Great Langdale Valley, has been a cornerstone of hospitality since its inception as a farm and inn in the late 19th century. Renowned for its historic charm and warm welcome, the hotel has catered to adventurers, climbers, and leisure seekers for over a century. Under the stewardship of Neil and Jane Walmsley since 1984, the property has retained its traditional character while modernising amenities to meet contemporary expectations.The iconic Climbers Bar, established in 1949, remains a hub for mountaineering legends and casual visitors alike. Our commitment to preserving local heritage, combined with Neil's passion for fell running and Jane's dedication to hospitality, ensures a unique experience rooted in Cumbrian tradition. The hotel's strategic location offers easy access to England's highest peaks and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural and historical treasures.
Services
Accommodation
Climbers Bar
Dining
Room Service
Event Hosting
Highlights and features
- We offer over 100 years of hospitality experience in the Lake District
- Family-run establishment preserving historic features since 1984
- Iconic Climbers Bar with rich mountaineering heritage
- Strategic location near England's highest peaks and cultural attractions
- Traditional British cuisine with modern culinary twists
What people say
Breathtaking scenery
Rich history
Warm hospitality
Excellent location
Traditional atmosphere
Services
Accommodation
Our historic hotel offers various room types including standard singles, doubles, and en-suite options. All accommodations maintain traditional character while providing modern comforts. Guests enjoy scenic valley views and easy access to outdoor activities. Room rates include VAT and breakfast service.
Climbers Bar
The iconic Climbers Bar serves local ales and casual meals daily. Converted from a cowshed in 1949, it retains original features and climbing memorabilia. Open from midday until late evening, it offers a convivial atmosphere for hikers and locals.
Dining
Our dining room serves breakfast from 8am to 9:30am. The bar offers lunch and evening meals featuring seasonal Lakeland produce. Menus include traditional British dishes with modern twists, including vegetarian and children's options.
Room Booking
Flexible booking options available for stays throughout the year. Minimum night requirements apply during weekends and bank holidays. Cancellation policy allows refunds with 7 days' notice minus administration fee.
Pet Friendly Stay
Well-behaved dogs welcome in designated rooms at additional charge. Pets have access to all bar areas but not dining room. Owners must ensure animals don't damage property or disturb other guests.
People
Neil Walmsley
Proprietor
Neil has managed The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel with his wife Jane since 1984. A talented musician and keen fell runner, he maintains the hotel's historic character while ensuring modern guest comforts.
Jane Walmsley
Proprietor
Jane co-owns The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel with Neil. She contributes to maintaining the property's traditional hospitality standards and oversees day-to-day operations at this historic Lake District establishment.
Questions
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Rooms are available from 2pm on arrival day. Please vacate rooms by 10am on departure day.
Can I bring my dog to the hotel?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome at £10 per night, with access to all areas except the dining room.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit and debit cards for room bookings and on-site purchases.
Is breakfast included in the room rate?
Breakfast is served separately but not included in standard room rates.
What are the bar opening hours?
The Climbers Bar is open daily from 12:30pm until 11pm (10:30pm on Sundays).
Do you offer event hosting facilities?
The hotel has hosted climbing club dinners historically, but current event capacity requires direct inquiry.
Reviews (6)
Helen Wilson
May 17, 2022
Report
Positives Lovely breakfasts friendly women staff. Bed comfy, room spacious Negatives No tv in room, 2 barmen grumpy with 1 word answers and didn't seem happy in their job. No customer pleasantries, barely any manners. No WiFi signal unless in bar with different code given in hotel. Water pressure would drop in shower, dark carpet and decor and dining room could do with radio or quiet music on
Abhijit Tase
May 15, 2022
Report
Location is at the start of a very popular route up to Scafell Pike, Crinkle Crags and many other wonderful fells for walking or climbing. Very very busy pub but great and super fast service. Has good vegetarian and vegan options for food, too! Indoor and outdoor seating and is dog friendly. Definitely recommend this place at the end of a long day of walking or climbing!
Tonsells
May 09, 2022
Report
I have never been inside the actual hotel as we've only ever used the climbers bar which we love. A back to basics bar stuck in time with a friendly welcoming atmosphere and the 'Old peculier' beer is to die for
Elizabeth Briggs
Apr 24, 2022
Report
Iconic Lakeland pub set in the beautiful Langdale valley. Don't expect mod cons, that's not its purpose. Designed for those who enjoy walking and climbing, who require great food and a decent pint. Loweswater Gold is highly recommended
Stephen Pomfret
Apr 16, 2022
Report
Didn't stay at the hotel but the pub is in the best traditions of an "English Pub" Great hand-pulled beers. Reward yourself after a stroll up the Langdale Valley and be sure to remember it is the "Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel".
Rob Faircloth
Apr 11, 2022
Report
Frequent visitor to the Great Langdale valley but strangely hadn't visited this pub until this week. It has so much history and I've read quite a lot about it eventually. And what a disappointment. The setting is fantastic and the pub interior is great but the bar staff were at best indifferent and, at worst, foul mouthed when a customer - rightly or wrongly, i don't know - returned some food. Totally inappropriate and I certainly will not return.
