The Sun Hotel & Bar – A Favorite for Families in Lancaster

The hotel houses an award-winning bar owned by Lancaster Brewery, offering a diverse and extensive selection of real ales and craft beers. The relaxed dining atmosphere includes a beer garden for outdoor seating, and the menu features seasonal food made with locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is a cooked-to-order full English, included when booking directly through the hotel website.

The hotel offers 16 luxurious en-suite rooms, including suites with a roll-top bath and luxury double rooms with bespoke furniture and a power shower. Room 16 is a spacious, beautifully presented room in the former servants' quarters, and all rooms feature soundproofing to insulate guests from the busy bar below. Tea, coffee, and biscuits are provided in each room, with a refill station on every landing.

The Sun Hotel & Bar is the only 4-star hotel in the centre of Lancaster, situated within yards of Lancaster Castle and all city attractions. The hotel is a 5- to 7-minute walk from Lancaster station, and St. Martin's College (University of Cumbria) and Lancaster University are an easy commute from the hotel. Nearby parking is available at the St. Nicholas Arcade shopping centre, a 4-minute walk away, offering 24-hour secure parking for £14.

Originally built in the 17th century, the hotel is the oldest bar still operating in Lancaster and was used by artist J.M.W. Turner when painting in the Lake District at the end of the 18th century. Circular plaques on the walls detail famous guests, including the 20th-century Lakeland author Alfred Wainwright. The building's original staircase was installed by the Willow family of furniture fame.

The bar area is pet-friendly, welcoming animal companions. The hotel has no lift, and guests should be prepared for stairs, including up to six flights to some top-floor attic rooms. A disabled toilet is available on the ground floor, and disabled parking is available right outside the door.

Bar: Award-winning bar with extensive craft beer selection

Rooms: 16 rooms including suites with roll-top baths

History: 300-year-old building, oldest operating bar in Lancaster

Dining: Cooked-to-order breakfast included with direct booking

Location: Only 4-star hotel in centre of Lancaster, near castle

Parking: Secure 24-hour parking 4-min walk away for £14