
The Ship Inn Piel Island
A historic island escape with a welcoming pub, ancient castle ruins, and unspoiled coastal beauty. Accessible by a short ferry ride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & BBQ

The Ship Inn Piel Island
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & BBQ
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic island escape with a welcoming pub, ancient castle ruins, and unspoiled coastal beauty. Accessible by a short ferry ride.
"Absolute gem of a place, everyone was super friendly and the island is simply beautiful."

🚢 Ferry Cash
Bring cash for the ferry crossing, though the pub accepts cards. :moneybag:
👟 Island Strolls
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins and walking around the island. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ship Inn
Piel Island
Enjoy local ales and delicious BBQ food in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Meet the King of Piel Island!

Piel Castle Ruins
Piel Island
Explore the atmospheric ruins of this historic island fortress with stunning coastal views.

Island Exploration
Piel Island
Wander the entire island, discover its beaches, and soak in the unspoiled natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry & Island Access
Island Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Cash
Bring cash for the ferry crossing, though the pub accepts cards. :moneybag:
👟 Island Strolls
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins and walking around the island. :athletic_shoe:
🍺 Pub Vibes
Enjoy reasonable prices and friendly service at The Ship Inn. Great spot for a pint! :beer:
🏕️ Camping Option
Basic camping is available for a small fee, offering a unique island overnight experience. :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Cash
Bring cash for the ferry crossing, though the pub accepts cards. :moneybag:
👟 Island Strolls
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins and walking around the island. :athletic_shoe:
🍺 Pub Vibes
Enjoy reasonable prices and friendly service at The Ship Inn. Great spot for a pint! :beer:
🏕️ Camping Option
Basic camping is available for a small fee, offering a unique island overnight experience. :tent:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Piel Island as an absolute gem and a beautiful, unspoiled destination. The Ship Inn receives high praise for its friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices, and delicious BBQ food. Many are captivated by the island's history and natural beauty, with a strong desire to return.
"Absolute gem of a place. We spent a half day on the island - took ferry across (7 quid return for adults), had delicious burger and chips from the BBQ at the pub before a walk round the entire island, a wander round the castle ruins and time on the beach. Everyone was super friendly. We'd definitely consider going back to camp."
Clare W
"The Ship Inn is doing good business well before noon on Saturday, June 21st. A cask beer Flying Elephants is on sale from Ulverston brewery, a lovely 5.7% keg IPA from Bowness & the usual Birra Moretti, Guinness, Fosters & Strongbow suspects. Friendly efficient service at the bar & best of all - the prices are very reasonable & not a rip off. The barbecue is turning out burgers & bacon butties etc etc. Card payment is no problem & the pub has a nice, light, clean & fresh airy feel about it. We Would definitely get the ferry across again when visiting Roa Island. Camping available at a fiver a tent per night. Just a lovely setting for families to relax & enjoy the lovely Piel Island."
A B
"This place is simply beautiful. This was not our first visit, in fact it was our sixth or seventh. Everytime we visit, we fall a little bit more in love with the place. The pub is good Craic, Aaron and hannah and Paul and liz in the kitchen do a fantastic job. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly, and you do really feel like your having a pint in your local. Nothing is too much trouble and this includes the ferry men who get you backwards and forwards.
The island is stunning and steeped in history. This part of the cumbria coast line is really still very unspoilt and I often wonder why its not visited as often as other parts of the county.
The camping facility although still basic is more than adequate and at a fiver a night whats not to like ! Honestly can not recommend it enough and can not wait for my next visit."
Trisha O'Brien
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Piel Island by taking a short ferry ride from Roa Island. The ferry service is tide-dependent, so it's wise to check the schedule in advance. The journey is quick and offers lovely views.
Ferry times vary based on the tides. It's best to confirm the latest schedule before your visit, as they can change daily. The ferry operators are usually very helpful.
Yes, there is parking available on Roa Island near the ferry departure point. This makes it convenient for visitors driving to the island.
Piel Island is only accessible by boat. There is no bridge or causeway, so the ferry is the only way to get across.
The ferry typically costs around £7 for an adult return trip. It's advisable to have cash on hand for the ferryman, although some may accept card payments.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need to buy tickets to visit Piel Island itself, but you do need to pay for the ferry crossing. Entry to the castle ruins is generally free.
The Ship Inn is usually open from late morning through the afternoon, especially on weekends. It's a good idea to check their social media or call ahead for the most current hours.
The castle ruins on Piel Island are typically free to explore. You can wander through the historic grounds and enjoy the views without any admission charge.
While you can't typically book tables in advance due to the nature of the island's access, the pub is well-equipped to handle visitors. Arriving earlier can help secure a spot.
Camping on Piel Island is basic and available for a small nightly fee. It's usually on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended if you plan to camp.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
On Piel Island, you can explore the historic Piel Castle ruins, enjoy a meal and drinks at The Ship Inn, walk around the entire island, and relax on the beach. It's a great place for a half-day or full-day excursion.
The Ship Inn offers a good selection of food, including delicious burgers and bacon butties from their BBQ, as well as cask ales and other beverages. They have reasonable prices.
Yes, Piel Island is a lovely setting for families to relax and enjoy. The ferry ride, castle exploration, and pub atmosphere are generally well-received by children.
Facilities on Piel Island are basic but adequate. The Ship Inn provides food and drink, and there are camping facilities available. Toilets are also usually available.
Yes, card payments are accepted at The Ship Inn, which is convenient for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to have some cash for the ferry.
📸 📸 Photography
The Piel Castle ruins offer dramatic backdrops, especially at sunrise or sunset. The coastal views from around the island are also stunning. Don't forget to capture the unique atmosphere of The Ship Inn.
Absolutely! The unspoiled coastline, the historic castle, and the surrounding waters provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography. The changing tides add another dynamic element.
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and any specific restrictions for Piel Island and its castle before flying a drone.
Capturing the ferry approaching the island, the imposing Piel Castle, and the lively scene at The Ship Inn are all iconic shots. The King of Piel Island himself can also be a memorable subject!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, though The Ship Inn has you covered for meals. Comfortable shoes are a must for little explorers. The island's natural beauty and historical elements make it an engaging and educational destination for children of all ages.
🏕️ Budget Travelers
For an even more budget-friendly experience, consider camping on the island for just £5 per night. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the island's atmosphere without the cost of accommodation elsewhere. It's a great way to experience a unique destination on a shoestring.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Aim to arrive earlier in the day to make the most of your time, especially if you want to experience the pub when it's lively. Remember to check ferry times to ensure you can get back to Roa Island without issue. It's a refreshing escape from the mainland.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ship Inn: More Than Just a Pub
Beyond the food and drink, The Ship Inn is known for its 'good craic' and welcoming environment. It's a central hub for island life, and many visitors express a desire to return, some even considering camping overnight to extend their experience. The pub's light, clean, and airy feel adds to the overall pleasant experience, making it a must-visit for anyone arriving on the island.
Exploring Piel Castle and Island History
Beyond the castle, the island itself is a joy to explore. Its unspoiled nature and quiet charm are often highlighted by visitors who wonder why it's not more widely visited. A walk around the entire island reveals diverse coastal scenery, sandy beaches, and a sense of peaceful isolation. The island's history is palpable, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in heritage and natural beauty.
Camping on Piel Island
Campers often speak of the incredible views and the tranquility of spending a night on Piel Island. It's a chance to disconnect and appreciate the unspoiled landscape. The idea of returning to camp is frequently mentioned by satisfied visitors, highlighting the appeal of this simple yet memorable accommodation.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit