10-16 Botchergate, Carlisle CA1 1QS

About This Pub

Ah, The William Rufus, your typical JD Wetherspoon gem in the heart of Carlisle—it's one of those places that feels like a reliable old mate for a pint after a long day. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, folks really appreciate how straightforward it is; you can nip in, use the app to order without queuing, and soak up the lively vibe with sports on the telly and a decent selection of ales that hit the spot. It's super convenient too, just a stone's throw from the station, making it perfect if you're travelling through or fancy a quick stop. On the flip side, though, it's not all rosy—I've heard a few tales of food woes, like raw burgers and pizzas that didn't quite make it out of the kitchen properly, even after a remake. That said, it's generally a budget-friendly spot that's popular for good reason, so if you're after a no-nonsense pub experience, it's worth a go, but maybe stick to the drinks if you're feeling cautious. Overall, it's got that solid 4.1 rating for a reason, blending the highs of a welcoming atmosphere with the occasional kitchen hiccup, so you'd want to weigh that up based on what you're in the mood for.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • It's a cracking spot for a quick pint or a catch-up with mates, especially with the app making ordering dead easy—no faffing about at the bar.
  • The atmosphere is spot on, particularly when there's sport on the screens, creating a lively buzz that's perfect for a Saturday afternoon.
  • Location's brilliant—right near the station, so it's ideal if you're popping in after a journey, and they've got a nice outdoor area for a smoke or fresh air.
  • Staff are friendly and efficient, and the ales are of good quality, which is always a win in my book.
  • Being a Wetherspoon, it's budget-friendly, so you can enjoy a decent drink without breaking the bank.
Cons
  • Food can be a bit hit or miss; some have had nasty experiences with undercooked items like burgers and pizzas, which is a real downer.
  • It gets absolutely packed, especially on weekends, so you might struggle to find a seat or enjoy a quiet chat.
  • While the service is generally quick, there have been times when things go wrong, like food not being remade properly the first time around.

Contact Information

10-16 Botchergate, Carlisle CA1 1QS
+441228633160
Pub
Closed

Opening Hours

Monday08:00 - 00:00
Tuesday08:00 - 00:00
Wednesday08:00 - 00:00
Thursday08:00 - 00:00
Friday08:00 - 01:00
Saturday (Today)08:00 - 02:00
Sunday08:00 - 00:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Got served a raw chicken burger and raw pizza. They told us that the chicken burgers are cooked and then refrozen and then reheated to be served. And the pizza? Well it just shouldn’t be raw :) They remade the pizza and replaced the burger with a pizza aaaandddd they were both still raw😄. Nicely though they gave us a refund and two free glasses of Pepsi. As a first visit I’m sad to say it does not attract me to come back 🥰
EF
Ella F
Very busy pub as always in a spoons, ordered and paid for on the app so no queuing at the bar.
AS
Alan Staton
Nice place to enjoy a drink as its my very first drink in Carlisle after a long journey. Quick service and plenty of seating. Atmosphere wasn’t bad either. Location is great just 2 mins away from station. Full of local people, may be because their favourite place.
WT
win task
Enjoyed a few drinks in here with friends. Quite lively on a Saturday afternoon with sport on the screens creating a vibrant atmosphere. Ales were of a good quality 👌
PB
paul brown
Cool place, taste food, Quick Service, New Christmas Menu, Very busy on weekends, Friendly and nice Staff, Outside nice garden, patio, smooking area, close to buses and train station in Carlisle. Only 10 min walks from Main City Square. Bus station- 12 min walks, You need go there and You will be happy and love that place :-) DJ console, party music, sport sky sports and more
DP
DJ Photographer UK

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