About This Pub
Ah, the Toll House Inn in Lancaster is one of those places that just draws you in with its cosy vibe and that historic building right by the canal – it's a short stroll from the city centre, making it spot on for a weekend getaway or a casual pint. From what I've gathered from chats with others who've been, the staff are an absolute delight, always chipping in with helpful tips and making sure everything runs smoothly. The food's a standout too; it's all about those hearty, home-cooked meals with top-notch local ingredients, and the breakfasts are something to rave about – I mean, who could resist a perfectly done Eggs Benedict? Plus, the rooms have that modern boutique feel with nice little extras that make you feel pampered. On the flip side, though, the rooms can be a tad on the small side, and not being able to crack open a window might leave you a bit stifled on a warm day. We've also heard tales of it getting a bit chaotic when there's a group event on, making it tricky to nab a table even if there are spots free, and some menu tweaks have rubbed a few the wrong way, like replacing a beloved dish with something that's not quite up to snuff or feels a bit pricey. All in all, it's a solid choice for a good night out or a comfy stay, as long as you go in with your eyes open to those little quirks – it's got that warm, community feel that's hard to beat in Lancaster.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are incredibly friendly and always ready to help, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in
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The food is a real highlight – think delicious, home-cooked dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and that breakfast, especially the Eggs Benedict, is an absolute winner
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Rooms are clean, modern, and full of thoughtful little touches that make for a comfortable stay
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It's in a brilliant spot next to the canal, just a short walk from Lancaster's city centre, perfect for exploring the area
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Great value overall, with award-winning ales on tap and simple yet beautifully cooked meals that won't break the bank
Cons
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Rooms can feel a bit cramped, and not being able to open the windows might leave you wishing for a bit more fresh air
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Service can hit snags when it's busy, like if there's a party on and they can't squeeze in another table, which is a shame if you're hoping for a spontaneous meal
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Some menu changes have left a few disappointed, such as swapping out favourites for options that don't quite hit the mark or feel overpriced
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The place can get quite noisy, especially in the bar area, so it might not be ideal if you're after a quiet night
Contact Information
Penny St, Lancaster LA1 1XT
+441524599900
Bar
Hours not available
Opening Hours
Opening hours not available
Recent Reviews
Stayed here this weekend. Staff are friendly and helpful, rooms are clean and modern with everything you could need in them with lots of little extra finishing touches. Breakfast was the best we've had in a long long time. Can recommend the Eggs Benedict in particular.
Practically Perfect in Every Way.
Will stay again
Called in tonight for a meal for 2. They had a party in which took maybe 2 tables. There were a few empty tables, however when asked if they could accommodate a table for 2 the waitress went to ask the kitchen who said no. It wasn't particularly busy and it just seemed like the kitchen were being lazy and wanted an early finish. This was around 7pm so not like it was late. We have been a few times before but it kind of puts you off wanting to return
Have eaten here four times this year and felt it was my favourite place to eat. Until tonight. My favourite crispy beef tacos had been removed from the menu to be replaced by crispy beef bao buns. These were very disappointing and at £11 each were certainly not worth their cost with hardly any beef and very “doughy”. The cheese and onion pie I normally have had a very hard and crispy crust and the spring greens were tasteless (in comparison to the fine beans I had when I first ate here). Something my husband ordered didn’t arrive and at over £10 for a glass of rose I felt the whole experience was not worth the cost. I appreciate overheads have increased in the hospitality industry and don’t mind paying for an excellent meal, sadly however this wasn’t and we won’t return.
Simple dishes, beautifully cooked, and excellent value.
On first sight this busy bar-restaurant looks completely typical of a town centre inn. Rather noisy. Plenty of local people meeting for drinks, parties, meals.
What sets it apart is the quality of the restaurant. Recently awarded 2AA rosettes, the menu has a full range of dishes, including pub regulars like fish and chips, hamburgers, steaks etc. But look on the right of the menu for seasonal specials and you will find venison, fish of the day, a vegetarian special. Venison was loin medallions, perfectly cooked and wonderfully tender, accompanied by a venison suet pudding, creamed celeriac and a home produced fragrant jus (or gravy as they call it in Lancashire). A fillet of turbot was fresh, perfectly cooked (though possibly a bit over-seasoned) accompanied by braised fennel. Apart from some steaks, all main courses were priced under £30. A short but varied wine list was excellent value.
In a world oversupplied by indifferent pub restaurants, this is the kind of place to restore your faith in British hospitality. Keep up the good work, people, and chain your chef to the kitchen; cooking this good and this consistent is too rarely encountered at these prices.
Great modern hotel with a well thought out stay experience, kind staff and comfortable beds. Downside rooms are a little compact, and you aren't able to open a window.
Food in the restaurant is surprisingly very good for a hotel. I think it's definitely one of the best eats in Lancaster
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