The King’s Arms in Hawkshead is proud to announce that just 6 months after opening it has been awarded Four AA Gold Stars for 2026, alongside an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence Award, recognising the pub’s outstanding standards of hospitality, accommodation, and dining.

The Four Gold Star Award is one of the highest distinctions in the AA’s hospitality scheme, reserved for accommodation that delivers exceptional quality across every aspect of the guest experience. According to the AA’s criteria, properties achieving Four Gold Stars demonstrate:

High levels of comfort and luxury in both public spaces and guest bedrooms
Impeccable cleanliness and attention to detail throughout
Professional, warm and attentive service
A distinctive character combined with consistently high operational standards
In addition to the Four Gold Star rating, The King’s Arms has also received an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence, recognising establishments that offer dining of a particularly high standard, showcasing quality ingredients, confident cooking, and a clear commitment to food-led hospitality.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Hawkshead in the Lake District, The King’s Arms blends centuries of heritage with a modern approach to innkeeping. The historic building, long a landmark of the village square, has been thoughtfully restored to provide elegant yet relaxed accommodation alongside a restaurant focused on seasonal British produce and local Lake District ingredients.

The kitchen’s approach centres on celebrating the region’s outstanding produce and artisan suppliers from across the North of England. Menus evolve throughout the year, reflecting the changing seasons while maintaining a strong sense of place and provenance.

AA inspectors praised The King’s Arms for its balance of traditional charm and contemporary standards, noting the welcoming atmosphere, high quality of accommodation, and the strength of its food offering as key factors in achieving both awards.

Jo McGowan, owner of the King’s Arms commented “To be recognised with Four AA Gold Stars and an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence is a tremendous honour for our entire team. Our aim has always been to create a place that combines genuine Lakeland hospitality with exceptional food and accommodation.

These awards are a testament to the dedication, care and passion our team brings every day, from the kitchen and front of house to housekeeping and guest services. We’re incredibly proud of our team, and to represent Hawkshead and the Lake District at this level.”

The recognition from the AA places The King’s Arms among a select group of the UK’s highest-rated pubs with rooms, marking an exciting milestone in its continued commitment to delivering memorable stays and exceptional dining in one of Britain’s most celebrated destinations