This post was originally published on this siteA haven for locals and visitors for generations, The King’s Arms takes centre stage in the Lake District village of Hawkshead. The whitewashed walls of this 17th-century coaching inn are a picture postcard scene, whatever the Cumbrian weather happens to throw at you. And, after an extensive, sympathetic renovation, the inn reopened its doors in August of this year, stepping into a new chapter that honours its past while making room for contemporary comfort. The refurbishment is unapologetically local in spirit — led by Cumbrian tradespeople, respectful of oak beams, stone fireplaces and slate floors, and shepherded by owner Jo McGowan, it’s given Hawkshead a pub that truly belongs to the community. The result is classic and calm: a place that looks traditional in photos but feels fresh in practice. The welcome Part of Hawkshead’s charm is that its centre has been largely car-free for over 50 years now. Most visitors make use of the pay-and-display car park on the edge of the village. We’d learned in advance that parking permits are issued to guests staying at The King’s Arms for the car park just opposite, so popped in to collect one before