Cartmel is small, but it punches well above its weight. Tucked away on the Cartmel Peninsula between the southern tip of Windermere and the sands of Morecambe Bay, this medieval village is often called the culinary capital of the North. Add a 12th-century priory, a much-loved racecourse and peaceful stream-side walks, and you have the perfect base for an unhurried break in the southern Lakes.

This guide covers the best things to do in Cartmel, where to eat and drink, days out nearby, and the Ridgestone cottages in and around the village.

Our Cartmel loft, Wharton House Mews, was recently reviewed by men’s lifestyle site The Coolector. Their verdict? It strikes the balance between peaceful seclusion and easy access to the best of the region, and “nails this sweet spot with aplomb”.

Read the full feature on The Coolector

• Cartmel Priory: the village’s 12th-century priory is its architectural centrepiece and well worth a look inside.
• Cartmel Racecourse: on National Hunt race days the whole village takes on a buzzing, festival atmosphere.
• Stream-side walks: gentle paths lead out from the village, perfect for a stroll before lunch.
• Independent shops and cafés: browse boutiques around the square, then stop for coffee and cake.
• Sticky toffee pudding: Cartmel’s famous pudding is a must-try, and it makes a very good souvenir.

Food is the big draw here. Simon Rogan’s Michelin-starred L’Enclume and Rogan & Co are both in the village, so book well ahead if you want a special-occasion dinner. For something more relaxed, there are four traditional inns, artisan bakeries and a cheese shop.

Beer lovers should head to Unsworth’s Yard, a sunny courtyard with a microbrewery pouring beer brewed on site.

For more ideas, see our full guide to the best restaurants in the Lake District, which includes a section on Cartmel.

• Grange-over-Sands: a short drive away, with Edwardian seaside charm and a promenade to stroll.
• Morecambe Bay: wide skies and breezy coastal walks on Cartmel’s doorstep.
• Lake Windermere: about 15 minutes by car. A boat trip with Windermere Lake Cruises is a great day out in any weather, especially with children.
• The fells: the wider Lake District is within easy reach for bigger walks.

Wharton House Mews, Cartmel (sleeps 4)
A boutique loft in the heart of the village, with soaring ceilings, exposed beams, a super king master suite with freestanding bath, and a private spa room with a four-person hot tub. The second bedroom sits across the courtyard inside Cartmel’s 18th-century village lock-up, a listed building now with its own wet room. Sleeping in the old village jail is guaranteed to get the conversation going.

Wharton Cottage, Cartmel (three bedrooms)
A charming cottage for families or groups, with a welcome hamper, BathHouse toiletries and parking. Cartmel Racecourse and the village’s restaurants are right on the doorstep.

The Lookout, Cartmel (one bedroom)
Newly built in 2025 on the edge of the village, with a bright open-plan living space, a vaulted king bedroom with views to Morecambe Bay, and a peaceful garden with ponds.

Mead Cottage, Lindale (one bedroom)
A romantic hideaway in the nearby village of Lindale, with a log burner, private hot tub and fire pit.

Coronation Family Cottage, Lindale (three bedrooms)
A modernised 1800s cottage with two bathrooms and a private, enclosed six-person hot tub. A great base for families.

How do I get to Cartmel by train?
The nearest stations are Grange-over-Sands and Cark, both around a 10-minute drive from the village.

How far is Cartmel from Lake Windermere?
About 15 minutes by car, so it’s easy to combine village life with days on the lake.

Do I need to book restaurants in Cartmel?
Yes, especially for L’Enclume and Rogan & Co, which book up well in advance. The inns are more relaxed, but it’s worth booking at weekends and on race days.

Ready to explore Cartmel? Browse Ridgestone Collection’s luxury cottages and book direct for the best price.