The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas
Cocktail Bar | Keswick | England | United Kingdom
Cocktail bar in Lake District
"The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas" is a cocktail bar and pub of the well-known British Wetherspoon chain, located in Keswick, a picturesque town in the Lake District of Cumbria, England. The venue is situated in a historic building that was constructed between 1901 and 1902 as a magistrates' court and police station, serving in this role until the year 2000. It stands on the site of a former workhouse, established in the will of the prominent jurist and judge Sir John Bankes in 1642. Bankes, born in 1589, was knighted in 1631, appointed Attorney General in 1634, and rose to the position of Chief Justice of the Common Pleas in 1640—one of the highest legal positions in England at the time—until his death in 1644. The name of the pub honors this historical connection and lends special significance to the place.
Historic pubs in Cumbria
The interior of "The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas" is a successful example of the Wetherspoon philosophy of preserving and repurposing old buildings. Many original elements of the court and police building have been retained, including the cells with their iron doors and the courtroom featuring the covered witness stand, the main judge's table, and the defendant's area. These historical features create a unique atmosphere, often described by guests as interesting and quirky. The decor is otherwise typical of Wetherspoon pubs: functional, with dark wooden furniture, simple tables, and a central bar. A small beer garden complements the indoor space, providing a welcome option for sunny days, although it does not match the size of other Wetherspoon locations. Cleanliness is frequently praised, as is the regular upkeep by the staff.
Wetherspoon pub with history
The drink selection is extensive and in line with the chain's standards. There is a range of real ales, including three regular beers and up to four changing guest ales, which often come from local breweries. The offering is supplemented by craft beers, draft beers such as Brewdog, and freshly ground Lavazza coffee. The cocktail bar does not feature extravagant house creations but focuses on solid, affordable classics, often offered in combination with meals—a typical Wetherspoon characteristic. The menu includes traditional British dishes like fish and chips, steaks, pies, and breakfast options served until noon, alongside more modern alternatives like pizza or vegetarian dishes. According to guests, the quality of the food varies: some praise the freshness and value for money, while others occasionally complain about cold dishes or long waiting times.
Best pubs for hikers
The clientele is diverse, with hikers and tourists exploring the Lake District mingling with locals and groups who appreciate the budget-friendly prices. Its proximity to the Keswick Museum & Art Gallery makes it a convenient stop after an outing. The bar is family-friendly and offers modern conveniences such as app ordering, which facilitates service, although technical issues can arise from time to time. The noise level can be high on busy days, making the atmosphere more lively than relaxed. The staff are generally described as friendly and helpful, with individual employees like Emma or the manager being praised for their courtesy. However, there has been criticism regarding service on hectic days, the limited beer selection for connoisseurs, and the lack of dog-friendliness in the beer garden—a downside in a hiking-friendly area like Keswick.
