Where is the best place to eat in The Lake District? Nestled amidst the rolling hills, pristine lakes, and quaint towns, the Lake District offers a diverse range of dining options that showcase the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. From award-winning restaurants to hidden gems, we will take you on a culinary journey through the finest establishments that epitomize the flavours, traditions, and creativity of the Lake District’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to this breathtaking region, join us as we discover the best place to satisfy your taste buds and create unforgettable dining experiences in the heart of the Lake District.
Cavendish St, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QA
Few restaurants represent the region in which they’re located more than L’Enclume and the Lake District. The cooking in this lovely old smithy has never stopped evolving and the energy emanating from the kitchen is as palpable as ever. Classic dishes have been reworked and refined, while stunning new dishes have slotted seamlessly into the set menu. Simon Rogan may have interests in other parts of the world, but his passion for his first restaurant remains undimmed – as does his commitment to Cartmel and his nearby 12-acre farm which produces so much of the superb produce that clearly inspires the kitchen.
The enthusiasm and obvious pride of the service team further enhance the experience, an experience made even more memorable if you stay in one of the bedrooms spread about the village.
L’Enclume currently holds three Michelin stars, the only restaurant in the north of England to do so. Alongside that, the restaurant is also ranked as the top spot to dine in the UK in the highly esteemed Good Food Guide, and also holds five AA Rosettes for culinary excellence. In 2017, Simon was recognised as the AA chef of the year and is currently president of Bocuse d’OR.
In 2009 Simon set up a farm, known as ‘Our Farm’, entirely dedicated to producing the seasonal ingredients for L’Enclume’s ever-evolving menu. The farm was established with a very clear vision in mind; to expressly strengthen the link between food, its development and the environment, whilst setting out to further nurture and develop the relationship between cooking and growing. This is a place where growers and chefs work side-by-side, an extension of the same ethos, drive and attention to detail found in Simon’s restaurants.
Ullswater Road, Penrith CA11 8QT England
Ideally situated for convenient access to Lake Ullswater, located just a few miles away, as well as a 35-minute drive to Lake Windermere, the North Lakes Hotel serves as an excellent base for any Lake District excursion. Its strategic location offers proximity to the stunning hills, mountains, and leisurely lake cruises, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breath-taking scenery. Whether seeking adventure or a tranquil escape, the North Lakes Hotel provides the perfect setting with its stylish and contemporary rooms adorned with delightful touches, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. The hotel’s warm welcome extends to families, with special care taken to accommodate younger guests and even furry companions.
The North Lakes Hotel’s restaurant, FYR Grill, promises an exceptional dining experience. The menu caters to various preferences, with a range of French and British classics alongside the specialty grilled meats. Seafood enthusiasts can relish the grilled lobster Thermidor, while vegetarians can delight in the flavourful sweet potato and chickpea falafel. Each dish is prepared to the highest standard, ensuring a feast for the senses. To finish the meal, FYR offers beloved classic desserts such as sticky toffee pudding or the refreshing Eton mess with succulent berries and lime meringue. The drinks menu offers a selection of impeccable drinks, including signature gin and tonics, barrel-aged Negronis, and the sparkling Le Grande Fizz Fyr.
Devonshire Square, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QD
More casual than sister restaurant L’Enclume, and awarded its first Michelin star in 2018, Simon Rogan’s neighbourhood eatery in Cartmel offers high-end comfort food with a laidback vibe. Rogan & Co showcases the style and techniques that the chef has become known for whilst using local Lake District produce as well as some from further afield.
Sitting in the centre of the village and occupying a pretty cottage beside a stream. It has an easy-going feel courtesy of a cosy open-plan interior – which features dark wood beams, welcoming open fires and walls hung with Lakeland photography – as well as a chatty serving team who present every dish with a smile.
Simon Rogan’s influence is clear to see on the appealing menu, which lists skilfully prepared, understated dishes which make great use of creative ingredients and flavourful combinations. His clean, uncomplicated approach keeps the focus firmly on each main ingredient, with exceptional produce coming from his own farm in the Cartmel Valley or carefully sourced from trusted Lake District suppliers.
Church St, Ambleside LA22 0BU
The Old Stamp House Restaurant, located in Ambleside at the heart of the Lake District National Park, stands in the former workplace of one of its most famous and treasured natives: William Wordsworth.
Opening in 2014, the Old Stamp House offers a unique experience. Head Chef and Owner, Ryan Blackburn, is known for a variety of speciality dishes, including the famous and iconic Herdwick Lamb that roam the local fells. Ryan draws inspiration from the lesser-known ports on the west coast of the county with their rich history of importing spices and alcohol, as well as the small fishing fleets at Barrow and Whitehaven to source as much local fish and shellfish as possible. Shrimps from Morecambe Bay and game from Cartmel Valley are a frequent favourite.
This Michelin starred restaurant has a vast collection of awards, including being number one fine dining restaurant in the world for two years running (2021 and 2022) in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Restaurant Awards. The same awards also saw the restaurant take the top spot in 2021 for the UK in the Date Night category.
Expanding in August 2022 to seat 36 diners, the Old Stamp House is a place that ‘exudes cosy, self-effacing charm’, one that serves ‘fine, painstakingly orchestrated, hyper-local produce,’ said a wonderful review by Grace Dent in The Guardian’s Feast magazine in late 2022.
‘The Old Stamp House is a love letter to the area’s bountiful produce,’ – National Restaurant Awards 2022, which placed The Old Stamp House in its top 100 UK restaurants.
Gilpin Hotel & Lake House, Crook Rd, Windermere LA23 3NF
At the heart of Gilpin is a very passionate family and team, dedicated to creating lasting memories for their guests, who return time and again for celebrations and escapes. With five stars, one Michelin Star and three AA Rosettes, warmth and friendliness are balanced with extraordinary service, exquisite décor and stunning culinary experiences at this luxury country house spanning two estates in the beautiful Lake District.
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel has been awarded a coveted Michelin star following Ollie Bridgwater’s arrival earlier this year. Joining Gilpin after nearly a decade at Heston Blumenthal’s three Michelin Starred Fat Duck, possibly the most innovative and successful restaurant in the UK’s history, Ollie brings incredible technical skills along with a passion for sourcing exquisite ingredients.
He and his team make the most of special ingredients that aren’t around all the time, with menus that focus on beautiful local produce, distinct flavours, seasonality and sustainability – and precision; the detail really matters.
The Cottage in the Wood, Magic Hill, Whinlatter Forest, Braithwaite, Near Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5TW
The Cottage in the Wood is a cosy gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, offering nine contemporary rooms that provide either woodland or garden views. A haven of tranquillity and relaxation, their location serves as the perfect base for exploring the numerous walking and cycling routes in Whinlatter Forest and immersing oneself in the arts and culture of nearby Keswick.
The Michelin Star restaurant at the establishment boasts a delectable menu curated by Chef Director Ben Wilkinson, who utilizes the finest ingredients sourced from Cumbria and beyond. Ranked as number 24 on the Estrella Damm National Restaurant Awards, The Cottage in the Wood’s dining experience is expertly helmed by Restaurant Director Monika Zurawska, raising the standard for Cumbrian cuisine. The venue’s dishes pay homage to Cumbria and the surrounding local landscape, as Ben procures produce from the neighbouring valleys and forests just outside the Cottage in the Wood.
The Michelin Guide describes The Cottage in the Wood as “Top quality ingredients and classic techniques take the lead, there is a certain sophistication to the well-balanced flavour pairings –while skillfully making the dishes look eye-catching, he [Ben] manages to avoid over-elaboration.” The rooms embody a boutique hotel style, providing guests with comfortable, relaxed, and captivating spaces to enjoy, whether they are visiting the restaurant or avidly exploring the Lakes.
Askham Hall Penrith, Askham CA10 2PF England
Guests can unwind in the cosy sitting room of the 14th-century pele tower, basking in the warmth of the crackling fire while savouring delectable canapés and studying an impressive wine selection sourced from the estate cellars. Adjacent to the sitting room is the stylish country kitchen-style restaurant, adorned with a unique tiled floor and offering picturesque garden views. The service exudes charm, and it is well worth heeding the advice of the experienced team.
Overseeing the kitchen is locally born chef Richard Swale, who curates a concise menu featuring two choices for each course. These accomplished dishes are meticulously crafted in harmony with the seasons and the availability of produce from the surrounding Lowther Estate. The gardener plays a pivotal role in guiding the menu, providing insights on peak ingredients and future planting, complemented by estate-raised livestock, game, and trout sourced from the nearby streams. Notably, the sauces elevate each dish to new heights, showcasing their culinary expertise.
Allium’s commitment to seasonality and self-sufficiency has earned the restaurant a well-deserved Michelin star. The establishment stands out by offering an equally captivating vegetarian tasting menu, a rarity among rural fine-dining restaurants. While the menu evolves with the changing seasons, guests may find themselves captivated by dishes such as Lowther red deer with local cep, kale, and elderberry sauce, or the Askham Hall garden salad featuring sheep’s curd and truffle. For the ultimate Allium experience, it is highly recommended to stay overnight, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the unique culinary journey that celebrates the flavours of the surrounding landscape.
Keswick Road, Grasmere LA22 9RN England
At The Forest Side, guests are welcomed to a substantial Lakeland mansion by an engaging team. The experience begins in the cosy lounge, where drinks can be enjoyed while taking in the magnificent views of the surrounding fells. The restaurant and menu are thoughtfully designed to reflect the landscape in which it resides. A rustic ambiance fills the room, and a striking glass-topped table, crafted from a wind-blown tree, takes centre stage, adding to its unique charm. Provenance and sustainability are deeply ingrained in the philosophy of The Forest Side. Ingredients are sourced from their Victorian kitchen garden, local suppliers, as well as being foraged by the talented team. The result is a menu that is micro-seasonal, featuring skilfully prepared dishes with vibrant colours, textural contrasts, and sublime flavours. The full dining experience can be savoured during dinner, which offers a comprehensive three-hour-plus culinary journey.
While accessing the Lakes can sometimes be challenging without a car, The Forest Side is easily reachable for public transport users. Frequent trains to Windermere provide convenient access, and a short bus ride delivers guests right outside the hotel. The Forest Side strives to create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, translating the breath-taking Cumbrian landscape into an intriguing tasting menu. Guests can wander through the gardens, observing the chefs forage for ingredients from the kitchen garden and the surrounding wilderness. Many of these carefully selected ingredients find their way onto the exceptional tasting menu.
Surprising flavour combinations, such as oyster and green strawberry, form perfect partnerships, combining gentle salinity with fresh, fruity acidity. Delicate summer peas find their place alongside rabbit and elderflower, while a magnificent piece of aged lamb, cooked to perfection, is accompanied by garden-fresh turnips and a foraged hen of the woods mushroom.
Every dish showcases a deep understanding of flavour, executed with restraint and precision. Even a dessert featuring chocolate and sea buckthorn is expertly balanced, allowing the buckthorn to shine without overpowering the dish. The Forest Side’s bar also impresses, offering classic cocktails alongside signature creations like the cherry blossom negroni. The bar menu, like the food menu, incorporates local and wild ingredients, resulting in a delightful harmony of flavours.
3 Ash Street 5 Minutes Walk From Lake Windermere, Bowness-on-Windermere LA23 3EB England
This family-run fine dining restaurant is ideal if you’re looking for somewhere extra special. It holds an AA rosette for food quality and has plenty to offer. Down in the bar, you can watch the chefs at work, or head up to the sun terrace for a summer-evening drink. If you’re out for a romantic meal, get in early to eat on the Juliette balcony.
In homage to its location surrounded by lush countryside, rolling fells, sparkling lakes, and traditional Lakeland slate buildings, interiors at Porto are cool shades of grey, blue and green. Tables are natural oak and comfy chairs are upholstered in bespoke fabrics with a range of quirky geometric patterns. Walls are adorned with framed retro prints of different Lake District locations and iconic scenery.
If you’ve just popped in for a drink and nibbles you can relax in the downstairs snug area whilst watching people passing by along the cobble street. Don’t forget the stylish rooftop sun terrace is a must for sharing an aperol spritz or two, or a bottle of something fizzy with friends.
Lake Road Sussex House, Ambleside LA22 0AD England
Lake Road Kitchen seamlessly blends Scandinavian charm with the natural beauty of the Lake District. Inside this intimate restaurant, wooden planks lining the walls and chairs adorned with sheepskins create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. The surprise-format menus add an element of excitement, while the dishes themselves are masterfully prepared and accompanied by detailed descriptions. With a focus on sourcing top-quality ingredients, Lake Road Kitchen takes pride in roasting meats over an open fire, infusing them with delicious flavours.
Led by the talented chef James Cross, Lake Road Kitchen showcases some of the most innovative and accomplished cooking in the UK. Cross’s culinary journey includes experiences at renowned establishments like Simpson’s in Birmingham, La Pergola in Rome, and Noma in Copenhagen. Influenced by his time at Noma, Cross opened Lake Road Kitchen in 2014, embracing a similar philosophy of hyper-seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
The 12-course tasting menu at Lake Road Kitchen is ever-evolving, highlighting techniques such as pickling, fermentation, and cooking over flames. Imaginative dishes include garlic king prawn brioche toast with Sungold tomato and kelp ketchup, saddleback pork with pickled and puréed carrots, pickled onions, and a ransom caper-studded sauce, and pine nut and saffron “risotto” adorned with raw cep slices, sweet vinegar, and slivers of aged parmesan. Despite its unassuming exterior and modest dining room, Lake Road Kitchen stands as one of the boldest and most outstanding restaurants in the UK, showcasing the remarkable flavours of the Lake District through each delectable and distinctive plate.
Ambleside Road, Windermere LA23 1AX England
The Cedar Manor Hotel is nestled in the breath-taking English Lake District, surrounded by stunning scenery and just a short walk from Windermere and the lake itself. With an abundance of leisure activities available nearby, including sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, and pony trekking, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the magnificent mountains, picturesque villages, and rich heritage of the entire Lake District. The hotel boasts developed private gardens, dominated by a magnificent 200-year-old Indian Cedar Tree, after which it takes its name. Guests can choose from a range of comfortable rooms, some featuring king-sized beds and spa baths, ensuring a delightful and relaxing stay.
For a truly indulgent experience, the Cedar Manor Hotel offers a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District. Served from 1.30 pm to 4.00 pm, Thursday to Monday, guests can enjoy an array of delightful treats. The menu includes a selection of savouries and finger sandwiches, accompanied by the hotel’s own freshly baked plain and fruit scones, served warm with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam. Indulge further with a tempting assortment of homemade desserts and cakes. The hotel takes pride in sourcing high-quality loose-leaf tea and filter coffee from local suppliers, Penningtons, ensuring a memorable experience. To enhance the ambiance, the tea service is presented using exquisite bone china from the renowned Royal Crown Derby, exclusively available at Cedar Manor in Windermere. Guests can choose to enjoy their cream tea in the hotel’s restaurant, lounge, or, weather permitting, the charming garden.
The Cedar Manor Hotel now offers Gluten-free and Vegetarian options for their afternoon tea, catering to diverse dietary preferences. When making a booking, guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any specific requirements to ensure a delightful and inclusive experience.
High Street Elm House, Pooley Bridge, Penrith CA10 2NH England
Nestled in a charming Lake District village, 1863 Restaurant with Rooms is a meticulously maintained bistro that pays homage to its heritage as the local blacksmith’s establishment built in 1863. The menus feature thoughtfully crafted modern British dishes showcasing seasonal local ingredients. The convivial service and the availability of seven comfortable bedrooms further enhance the overall appeal of this establishment.
Under the leadership of Head Chef Phil Corrie, the talented kitchen team at 1863 creates carefully structured menus that change regularly, allowing guests to savour a full three-course meal without feeling overwhelmed or excessively full. An evening at 1863 promises not only a delightful dining experience but also stimulating conversations that may linger long after the guests have departed for the night.
Located in the heart of Pooley Bridge, 1863 Restaurant with Rooms offers an intimate dining room with a cosy bar area, maximizing the space for dining. The decor exudes a playful charm, adorned with clocks, mirrors, artwork, and various seating options. The skilful cooking showcases prime ingredients sourced from both Britain and beyond, forming the foundation of the modern British menu. The high-quality bedrooms are tastefully appointed and include thoughtful extras, elevating the overall sense of luxury and presentation.
Underskiddaw, Keswick CA12 4PY England
Lyzzick Hall takes great pride in the outstanding reputation of its restaurant, which has been earned over the years. The experienced and talented chefs meticulously prepare every dish using the finest ingredients, including herbs sourced from the hotel’s own garden. Local suppliers play an integral role in the menu, offering Borrowdale Herdwick Lamb from Yew Tree Farm, game from Cartmel, and an array of delectable Cumbrian cheeses. It is no surprise that dining at Lyzzick Hall’s restaurant often becomes the highlight of guests’ stays, with many choosing to indulge in the culinary delights every evening.
The menu at Lyzzick Hall’s restaurant presents a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary British cuisine, occasionally infused with international flavours for a delightful twist. Whether you opt for a tempting lunch or a full dinner experience, the choice is yours to savour the entire menu or select a few courses that pique your interest. The prices are adjusted accordingly to accommodate your preferences. Notably, the Four Course Sunday Lunch is immensely popular, so booking a table in advance is highly recommended. The dining room itself exudes elegance, adorned with gleaming cutlery, crisp white linen, charming candles, and fresh flowers adorning every table, creating a refined ambiance for a memorable dining experience.
L’Enclume currently holds three Michelin stars, the only restaurant in the north of England to do so. Alongside that, the restaurant is also ranked as the top spot to dine in the UK in the highly esteemed Good Food Guide, and also holds five AA Rosettes for culinary excellence. In 2017, Simon was recognised as the AA chef of the year and is currently president of Bocuse d’OR.
The North Lakes Hotel’s restaurant, FYR Grill, promises an exceptional dining experience. The menu caters to various preferences, with a range of French and British classics alongside the specialty grilled meats. Seafood enthusiasts can relish the grilled lobster Thermidor, while vegetarians can delight in the flavourful sweet potato and chickpea falafel. Each dish is prepared to the highest standard, ensuring a feast for the senses. To finish the meal, FYR offers beloved classic desserts such as sticky toffee pudding or the refreshing Eton mess with succulent berries and lime meringue. The drinks menu offers a selection of impeccable drinks, including signature gin and tonics, barrel-aged Negronis, and the sparkling Le Grande Fizz Fyr.
Simon Rogan’s influence is clear to see on the appealing menu, which lists skilfully prepared, understated dishes which make great use of creative ingredients and flavourful combinations. His clean, uncomplicated approach keeps the focus firmly on each main ingredient, with exceptional produce coming from his own farm in the Cartmel Valley or carefully sourced from trusted Lake District suppliers.
This Michelin starred restaurant has a vast collection of awards, including being number one fine dining restaurant in the world for two years running (2021 and 2022) in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice ‘Best of the Best’ Restaurant Awards. The same awards also saw the restaurant take the top spot in 2021 for the UK in the Date Night category.
SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel has been awarded a coveted Michelin star following Ollie Bridgwater’s arrival earlier this year. Joining Gilpin after nearly a decade at Heston Blumenthal’s three Michelin Starred Fat Duck, possibly the most innovative and successful restaurant in the UK’s history, Ollie brings incredible technical skills along with a passion for sourcing exquisite ingredients.
The Michelin Guide describes The Cottage in the Wood as “Top quality ingredients and classic techniques take the lead, there is a certain sophistication to the well-balanced flavour pairings –while skillfully making the dishes look eye-catching, he [Ben] manages to avoid over-elaboration.” The rooms embody a boutique hotel style, providing guests with comfortable, relaxed, and captivating spaces to enjoy, whether they are visiting the restaurant or avidly exploring the Lakes.
Allium’s commitment to seasonality and self-sufficiency has earned the restaurant a well-deserved Michelin star. The establishment stands out by offering an equally captivating vegetarian tasting menu, a rarity among rural fine-dining restaurants. While the menu evolves with the changing seasons, guests may find themselves captivated by dishes such as Lowther red deer with local cep, kale, and elderberry sauce, or the Askham Hall garden salad featuring sheep’s curd and truffle. For the ultimate Allium experience, it is highly recommended to stay overnight, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the unique culinary journey that celebrates the flavours of the surrounding landscape.
Surprising flavour combinations, such as oyster and green strawberry, form perfect partnerships, combining gentle salinity with fresh, fruity acidity. Delicate summer peas find their place alongside rabbit and elderflower, while a magnificent piece of aged lamb, cooked to perfection, is accompanied by garden-fresh turnips and a foraged hen of the woods mushroom.
In homage to its location surrounded by lush countryside, rolling fells, sparkling lakes, and traditional Lakeland slate buildings, interiors at Porto are cool shades of grey, blue and green. Tables are natural oak and comfy chairs are upholstered in bespoke fabrics with a range of quirky geometric patterns. Walls are adorned with framed retro prints of different Lake District locations and iconic scenery.
Led by the talented chef James Cross, Lake Road Kitchen showcases some of the most innovative and accomplished cooking in the UK. Cross’s culinary journey includes experiences at renowned establishments like Simpson’s in Birmingham, La Pergola in Rome, and Noma in Copenhagen. Influenced by his time at Noma, Cross opened Lake Road Kitchen in 2014, embracing a similar philosophy of hyper-seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
For a truly indulgent experience, the Cedar Manor Hotel offers a traditional Afternoon Tea in the heart of the Lake District. Served from 1.30 pm to 4.00 pm, Thursday to Monday, guests can enjoy an array of delightful treats. The menu includes a selection of savouries and finger sandwiches, accompanied by the hotel’s own freshly baked plain and fruit scones, served warm with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam. Indulge further with a tempting assortment of homemade desserts and cakes. The hotel takes pride in sourcing high-quality loose-leaf tea and filter coffee from local suppliers, Penningtons, ensuring a memorable experience. To enhance the ambiance, the tea service is presented using exquisite bone china from the renowned Royal Crown Derby, exclusively available at Cedar Manor in Windermere. Guests can choose to enjoy their cream tea in the hotel’s restaurant, lounge, or, weather permitting, the charming garden.
The menu at Lyzzick Hall’s restaurant presents a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary British cuisine, occasionally infused with international flavours for a delightful twist. Whether you opt for a tempting lunch or a full dinner experience, the choice is yours to savour the entire menu or select a few courses that pique your interest. The prices are adjusted accordingly to accommodate your preferences. Notably, the Four Course Sunday Lunch is immensely popular, so booking a table in advance is highly recommended. The dining room itself exudes elegance, adorned with gleaming cutlery, crisp white linen, charming candles, and fresh flowers adorning every table, creating a refined ambiance for a memorable dining experience.
Robyn’s trip to Artisan at Foxfield’s over the weekend to celebrate her sister’s birthday was a delight from start to finish. Settling into the elegant ambiance, Robyn chose the Prawn and Smoked Salmon Cocktail to start, a refreshing and flavourful dish that set the tone for the evening. For the main course, Robyn opted for the Slow Cooked Beef Cheek, a melt-in-your-mouth dish served with Stilton and chive croquette, Koffman cabbage, Glazed baby carrots, Rich beef and red wine jus. Delightful! The food was delicious, with exquisite flavours and impeccable presentation. Not only was the food remarkable, but the service at Artisan was exceptional, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Pie and Mash
Chelsea Buns 
