The Principal Pub in Kendal

8 Market Pl, Kendal LA9 4TN

About This Pub

Ah, The Principal in Kendal – it's right in the heart of things, near the market place, and I have to say, it's got its charms if you're into watching the footy or rugby on a big screen with a cold one in hand. The screens are top-notch, and grabbing a pint like Guinness at under a fiver makes it feel like good value for a night out. The inside is pretty inviting too, with a warm setup that could make you want to linger. But, and it's a big but, I've heard from a few mates that the service isn't always up to scratch – some staff seem a bit grumpy or inattentive, which can really spoil the mood when you're trying to enjoy yourself. Plus, if you're a fan of real ale, you might be disappointed as they don't always have it on tap, and the place can attract a crowd that's a tad too boisterous for a relaxed chat. Overall, it's worth popping in if you're after a lively spot for the game, but maybe go in with your eyes open and pick your timing wisely to avoid the downsides.

Pros and Cons

Pros

It's a cracking spot for watching live sports, with plenty of high-quality screens making it easy to catch the game.
Drinks are reasonably priced – like that pint of Guinness for just £4.50, which feels like a bargain these days.
The interior is quite nice and welcoming, giving off a comfy vibe for a casual get-together.

Cons

Service can be a real letdown, with some bar staff coming across as miserable or rude, which puts a damper on the experience.
They often run out of real ale or don't have much choice, which is a shame if you're after a proper pint.
The atmosphere can get a bit rowdy with some unsavoury behaviour, making it less ideal for a peaceful drink.

Contact Information

8 Market Pl, Kendal LA9 4TN

Pub

Hours not available

Opening Hours

Opening hours not available

Location

Recent Reviews

The pub has wrecked the marketplace. it was a lovely coffee-style marketplace where you could eat meals in peace outside sitting the sun. now it's full of older drunks making a nuisance. It's got so bad yesterday we saw them putting up a security camera in the marketplace

Something Else

I popped in for a Guinness while the rugby 🏉 was on so it was quite busy. Service was fine and the Guinness only £4.50 😲 a pint (February 2025)!

Andrew Pollard

Popped on for a quick drink to kill some time before getting the bus Home and wish I hadn't bothered stood there waiting to be served be a totally ignorant barmaid whilst she blantly served others. I only got served as barked at somebody jumping in front I only had a pint of moretti the plus point being it was only £3.90 never again a pub for the star trek variety

David Mills

Very good atmosphere with the football. Very nice interior and patrons. Plenty of high quality screens and a decent choice on tap. Bar tender ruined the experience they were miserable and didn’t peep a smile once. Visibly angry and rude with customers.

Mini Motorists

The sign on the wall says "Choose Real Ale", problem is they don't have any! Barman said he has to wait 24 hrs to change a keg after it is empty, he blamed the lack of choice on some other employee who didn't do his job. Good place to watch a football game though. Didn't try the food, I wouldn't expect too much though in view of the beer situation.

Chris West