The Dovenby Ship
Dovenby, Cockermouth · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: Vincent Van Der Meulen
A pub-hotel near Cockermouth with a golf course close by, handy for exploring the Lake District, best known for its hearty food.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Dovenby Ship
Cockermouth is within easy reach of The Dovenby Ship, with a golf course nearby for those wanting a round before dinner, plus other pubs, restaurants and entertainment close at hand for evenings out. The wider Lake District is on the doorstep too, making this a workable base for day trips around the area.
Rooms come with en-suite bathrooms and drinks provided, and breakfast is included to set guests up for a day out. That said, some reports suggest the bedrooms don't always get the same attention as the rest of the property, so it's worth setting expectations accordingly. The bar downstairs is the real draw, serving hearty, generously portioned food, with steaks and homemade chips singled out as particular strengths, and staff noted for being friendly and welcoming. There's a garden for warmer days, 24-hour reception, and free on-site parking for anyone arriving by car.
It's a straightforward, good-value stop for those planning to spend their days out in Cumbria and simply want a decent meal and a bed at the end of it.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
★★★★★ Stopped at The Ship, Dovenby after hiking Scafell Pike and it was the perfect end to the day. We had originally headed to Maryport Marina but there was no space left, then spotted this pub on the way out and decided to stop. Really glad we did. My wife had gammon, egg, pineapple and chips, and I had the mixed grill. The food was absolutely spot on. The chips were proper homemade chips and were amazing. The mixed grill was phenomenal, with the steak cooked perfectly exactly as I asked. The portions were huge as well, so much so that we kept some leftovers for the dog. What made it even better was that it wasn’t an overpriced tourist-trap pub. It was good food, good value, and a really welcoming place. The staff were friendly, helpful and even let us stay in the car park overnight in the campervan. We would genuinely recommend The Ship to anyone. Great food, great staff and the perfect end to a Scafell Pike hiking day.
3 months ago · via Google
The food tastes great, plentiful portions and happy to adapt dishes for allergies however the service wasn’t great.. The waitress’s cardigan was the garnish to my food, when I asked for a replacement I didn’t get an apology, or even an acknowledgment she just took the plate and left. When the food arrived back after almost 10 minutes there was less food than originally, and again no apology or acknowledgement from the waitress. Accidents happen but rudeness is inexcusable.
2 weeks ago · via Google
Went to the restaurant yesterday teatime 27th May 2026. What a superb meal we had. The starters, mains and deserts were fantastic and so so fresh. The service was great and we were made to feel really welcome.there were 5 of us and two dogs. Thank you so much.
2 months ago · via Google
Had a lovely roast here. The service was fast and very helpful staff. Dinner was gorgeous and I can’t believe I’m saying this , but I actually thought it was too big. I was so full I didn’t want a desert. Maybe a slightly smaller meal so that people would buy a desert. The only other thing I couldn’t understand was why the gorgeous garden didn’t have a lot of tables and chairs . I think this pub would be packed in that garden if more was made of it. We would definitely go back for the service and food 😊
3 months ago · via Google
Diners like this pub's delicious, hearty food, with many highlighting the perfectly cooked steaks, homemade chips, and generous portions. They also appreciate the friendly, welcoming staff and the excellent value for money.
Some reviews mention the accommodation can be neglected.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Dovenby, Cockermouth, CA13 0PN Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Dovenby, Cockermouth
- Good for children
- Yes
- Good for groups
- Yes
- Booking required
- Yes
- Destination
- Cockermouth