From Michelin-starred tasting menus in Cartmel to cosy fellside pubs, the restaurants in the Lake District are reason enough to visit. This guide rounds up our favourite places to eat in Cartmel, Ambleside, Grasmere, Windermere and Kendal. So, whether you’re planning a special-occasion dinner or a post-walk pint, you’ll know exactly where to book. Also, if you’re staying with us, many of these spots are a short drive from our luxury Lake District cottages.
Places to Eat in Cartmel
Cartmel is famous for its Michelin stars. However, its appeal isn’t just for ‘foodies’. In fact, after a morning on one of the best walks in the Lake District, it’s also the perfect place to refuel.
Rogans
Simon Rogan’s casual Cartmel restaurant sits in a pretty cottage beside a stream, right in the centre of the village. It has a laid-back atmosphere. Also, a chatty team serves the seasonal dishes and presents every plate with a smile. Above all, skilled cooking and creative flavour combinations easily justify its Michelin star.
L’Enclume
Three Michelin stars place L’Enclume among the top dozen dining experiences in the country. Here in Cartmel, chef Simon Rogan takes a hyper-seasonal approach built around local produce. For example, his tasting menus make full use of the restaurant’s own 12-acre farm nearby. In addition, the young service team’s enthusiasm and pride make the evening even more special. Expect to spend around £300 per person, and book well in advance.
The Cavendish Arms is a 450-year-old coaching inn and gastro-pub in the heart of Cartmel. The kitchen uses fresh, local produce, and the menu features beautifully presented, tasty dishes. Service is super-friendly. Also, hops hanging from the ceiling and an open fire make it especially cosy. There’s a large riverside terrace too, for alfresco dining.
Cartmel Coffee
At Cartmel Coffee, you’re guaranteed great chat and coffee, plus yummy cakes, sandwiches and soups. Owner Julie and her team always give you a lovely welcome at their village square café. Julie bakes all the cakes herself, and the home-made soups are simply divine. Above all, the walnut, pear & stilton panini is worth crossing continents for.
The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak is a traditional village inn serving Fell Brewery real ales, a good selection of wines and keg beers. Its reputation for seasonal comfort food is growing, too. Above all, it offers casual, simple and inexpensive dining with flair and passion. Because the helpings are generous and the service attentive, it seldom disappoints.
Heft
This gorgeous rural inn in High Newton is a shining example of what a good restaurant and inn should be. Heft opened near Cartmel in July 2021. Its creative take on modern British food then earned it a Michelin star in 2022.
Rogans
Simon Rogan’s casual Cartmel restaurant sits in a pretty cottage beside a stream, right in the centre of the village. It has a laid-back atmosphere. Also, a chatty team serves the seasonal dishes and presents every plate with a smile. Above all, skilled cooking and creative flavour combinations easily justify its Michelin star.
L’Enclume
Three Michelin stars place L’Enclume among the top dozen dining experiences in the country. Here in Cartmel, chef Simon Rogan takes a hyper-seasonal approach built around local produce. For example, his tasting menus make full use of the restaurant’s own 12-acre farm nearby. In addition, the young service team’s enthusiasm and pride make the evening even more special. Expect to spend around £300 per person, and book well in advance.
Pubs and Cafés in and Around Cartmel
The Cavendish ArmsThe Cavendish Arms is a 450-year-old coaching inn and gastro-pub in the heart of Cartmel. The kitchen uses fresh, local produce, and the menu features beautifully presented, tasty dishes. Service is super-friendly. Also, hops hanging from the ceiling and an open fire make it especially cosy. There’s a large riverside terrace too, for alfresco dining.
Cartmel Coffee
At Cartmel Coffee, you’re guaranteed great chat and coffee, plus yummy cakes, sandwiches and soups. Owner Julie and her team always give you a lovely welcome at their village square café. Julie bakes all the cakes herself, and the home-made soups are simply divine. Above all, the walnut, pear & stilton panini is worth crossing continents for.
The Royal Oak
The Royal Oak is a traditional village inn serving Fell Brewery real ales, a good selection of wines and keg beers. Its reputation for seasonal comfort food is growing, too. Above all, it offers casual, simple and inexpensive dining with flair and passion. Because the helpings are generous and the service attentive, it seldom disappoints.
Heft
This gorgeous rural inn in High Newton is a shining example of what a good restaurant and inn should be. Heft opened near Cartmel in July 2021. Its creative take on modern British food then earned it a Michelin star in 2022.
Places to Eat in Ambleside, Lake District
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
British, Cumbrian – Lunch & Dinner
Michelin, Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
The Old Stamp House Restaurant sits at the heart of Ambleside. In fact, the building was once the office of William Wordsworth, who worked here as Westmorland’s Distributor of Stamps.
This intimate, 28-cover restaurant sits in a quiet corner of Church Street and first opened its doors in 2014. Brothers Ryan Blackburn (head chef) and Craig Blackburn (restaurant manager) set out to offer a unique glimpse into Cumbria’s food and cultural heritage.
Visit website
Lake Road Kitchen
European – Dinner & After Hours
Michelin, Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Lake Road Kitchen is an award-winning, Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside. It offers tasting menus of 8 or 12 courses, and the service is informal and relaxed. Above all, the focus is on flavour, technique and exceptional hospitality.
Visit website
Fresher’s Cafe
Café, British – Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
This super-friendly café is a great spot for a top-quality brunch before you explore the Lakes or wander around the local shops. In fact, Fresher’s is one of our favourite stops in Ambleside!
Visit website
Great North Pie Co
British, Street Food – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner
Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Table Service, Vegetarian Friendly
This award-winning pie shop and café is open from early until late. Don’t miss their pie, mash and gravy, the ultimate Cumbrian comfort food! Also, you can eat in or take away. However, we recommend settling in and pairing your pie with one of their locally sourced beers and ales.
Visit website
European British – Lunch and Dinner Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Lewis’s Bistro is a great stop for a delicious meal, with freshly cooked, locally sourced vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. However, this modern, family-run bistro seats only 24 per sitting. As a result, we recommend booking in advance through their website.
(Also, we definitely recommend the Cumbrian cheeseboard if you find yourself enjoying an evening at Lewis’!)
Visit website
Baldry’s Tea Room
Café – Breakfast, Lunch & Brunch Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Dog Friendly
Thanks to the super-friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, Baldry’s is a personal favourite. For example, it’s perfect for a quick breakfast before heading off to explore. It’s also a great afternoon stop for a freshly made sweet treat, especially afternoon tea.
The Jumble Room
Asian, International – Dinner Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
The Jumble Room is a small, bohemian-style restaurant. Locally, it’s well known for fresh and, where possible, organic local ingredients. Above all, the team prides itself on a relaxed atmosphere that gives guests a break from everyday life. However, you’ll need a reservation if you want to enjoy an evening here!
Visit website
Greens Cafe & Bistro
Café – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, & Dinner Outdoor Seating, Takeout, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Green’s is a friendly local café and bistro specialising in home-cooked meals and home-baked cakes. The kitchen freshly cooks a wide range of dishes on site, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Of course, there’s plenty for meat lovers too! In addition, the team cooks daily and uses seasonal ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible.
Visit website
European, British – Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible
Forest Side is an incredibly popular restaurant serving exceptional food and drink. It holds a Michelin star and also champions fresh produce, sourcing 90% of its ingredients locally. Many come from within a 10-mile radius. As a result, we’d definitely recommend booking before your trip!
Visit website
The Swan
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Dog Friendly, Family
For a standout Sunday lunch, head to The Swan for hand-carved beef, pork or turkey with all the trimmings. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will love the homemade British puddings. For example, choose from sticky toffee pudding, crumble, indulgent cheesecakes and local dairy ice cream.
Victorian cook Sarah Nelson invented Grasmere Gingerbread in 1854. She first made the iconic treat in the kitchen of what is now The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. At first, she sold the spicy-sweet gingerbread, a cross between a biscuit and a cake, from a tabletop on a tree stump outside her cottage.
Today, this remarkable legacy is still a highlight of any visit to Grasmere. Third-generation owners Joanne and Andrew Hunter run the shop, and they still use the original secret recipe. As a result, visitors from all over the world leave with freshly baked treats.
Of course, a stop at the gingerbread shop is a must for any visitor. However, get there as early as you can, because queues often form before the shop even opens!
Visit website
Gilpin Hotel
Fine Dining – Dinner Reservations, Tasting Menu, Vegetarian Options
Gilpin Hotel, on Crook Road near Bowness-on-Windermere, is a strong choice for a special occasion. It retained its Michelin star in 2023. Also, the tasting menu with optional wine pairing makes for a polished, high-end evening.
Linthwaite House Hotel
Modern British – Lunch & Dinner Reservations, Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Linthwaite House Hotel is a smart pick if you want refined dining with a more relaxed feel. Its restaurant, Henrock, also brings global influences to the menu and setting.
Langdale Chase
British – Lunch & Dinner Reservations, Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Langdale Chase has a beautiful restaurant with lovely views over Lake Windermere. As a result, it’s a memorable stop for dining by the water.
Mexican – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Take Away, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Pedro’s is a great stop for family and friends who love Mexican food! Its extensive menu has something for everyone. In addition, the friendly service makes dining here a delight.
Visit website
Thai Kitchen in Lakeland
Thai – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Take Away, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
In 2006, Thai Kitchen in Lakeland began catering for dinner parties at homes and holiday cottages across Cumbria. After that, the business grew. Then, in 2016, it joined Kendal’s street food scene and began catering at local and national events. The food is truly excellent, so it’s a great choice for an evening in that won’t disappoint!
Visit website
The Black Labrador
British – Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Head over to the Black Labrador for a warm welcome in a cosy, traditional Cumbrian country pub. It’s tucked away in one of the Lake District’s best-kept secrets, the beautiful Lyth Valley. Also, it’s a great spot for family and friends to enjoy a full lunch or evening meal!
Marra 46 Cafe
British Contemporary – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Marra 46 has a great range of takeaway meals, cakes and coffee! Alternatively, take a seat in their charming courtyard café, which oozes historic character and serves a modern light menu. You can also find the Marra team at The Factory Tap on Aynam Road, serving sourdough pizza on Tuesday and Friday evenings.
British – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Highchairs Available, Dog Friendly
The Joshua Tree is a delightful, fully licensed café & bistro in one of Kendal’s oldest buildings. By day it’s a coffee shop, while the famous Starter & Pudding Club meets monthly in the evening! It’s tucked away in one of Kendal’s historic yards. In summer, the sunny courtyard catches the rays. Meanwhile, in winter, a cosy log fire warms anyone escaping a chilly morning or afternoon. Above all, the team prepares all the food fresh, using local ingredients.
Farmhouse Kitchen
British – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Reservations, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible
The Farmhouse Kitchen is an excellent artisan café in the historic town of Kendal. It’s open seven days a week, serving all-day breakfasts, lunches, salads, toasties and ciabattas. In addition, there are hearty vegan and vegetarian meals. In short, there’s something for everyone at the Farmhouse!
British, Cumbrian – Lunch & Dinner
Michelin, Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
The Old Stamp House Restaurant sits at the heart of Ambleside. In fact, the building was once the office of William Wordsworth, who worked here as Westmorland’s Distributor of Stamps.
This intimate, 28-cover restaurant sits in a quiet corner of Church Street and first opened its doors in 2014. Brothers Ryan Blackburn (head chef) and Craig Blackburn (restaurant manager) set out to offer a unique glimpse into Cumbria’s food and cultural heritage.
Visit website
Lake Road Kitchen
European – Dinner & After Hours
Michelin, Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Lake Road Kitchen is an award-winning, Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside. It offers tasting menus of 8 or 12 courses, and the service is informal and relaxed. Above all, the focus is on flavour, technique and exceptional hospitality.
Visit website
Fresher’s Cafe
Café, British – Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
This super-friendly café is a great spot for a top-quality brunch before you explore the Lakes or wander around the local shops. In fact, Fresher’s is one of our favourite stops in Ambleside!
Visit website
Great North Pie Co
British, Street Food – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Dinner
Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Table Service, Vegetarian Friendly
This award-winning pie shop and café is open from early until late. Don’t miss their pie, mash and gravy, the ultimate Cumbrian comfort food! Also, you can eat in or take away. However, we recommend settling in and pairing your pie with one of their locally sourced beers and ales.
Visit website
Places to Eat in Grasmere, Lake District
Grasmere squeezes some of the best restaurants in the Lake District into one small village, from relaxed bistros to fine dining.
Lewis’ of GrasmereEuropean British – Lunch and Dinner Outdoor Seating, Reservations, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Lewis’s Bistro is a great stop for a delicious meal, with freshly cooked, locally sourced vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. However, this modern, family-run bistro seats only 24 per sitting. As a result, we recommend booking in advance through their website.
(Also, we definitely recommend the Cumbrian cheeseboard if you find yourself enjoying an evening at Lewis’!)
Visit website
Baldry’s Tea Room
Café – Breakfast, Lunch & Brunch Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Dog Friendly
Thanks to the super-friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, Baldry’s is a personal favourite. For example, it’s perfect for a quick breakfast before heading off to explore. It’s also a great afternoon stop for a freshly made sweet treat, especially afternoon tea.
The Jumble Room
Asian, International – Dinner Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
The Jumble Room is a small, bohemian-style restaurant. Locally, it’s well known for fresh and, where possible, organic local ingredients. Above all, the team prides itself on a relaxed atmosphere that gives guests a break from everyday life. However, you’ll need a reservation if you want to enjoy an evening here!
Visit website
Greens Cafe & Bistro
Café – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, & Dinner Outdoor Seating, Takeout, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Green’s is a friendly local café and bistro specialising in home-cooked meals and home-baked cakes. The kitchen freshly cooks a wide range of dishes on site, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Of course, there’s plenty for meat lovers too! In addition, the team cooks daily and uses seasonal ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible.
Visit website
Fine Dining and Treats in Grasmere
Forest SideEuropean, British – Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible
Forest Side is an incredibly popular restaurant serving exceptional food and drink. It holds a Michelin star and also champions fresh produce, sourcing 90% of its ingredients locally. Many come from within a 10-mile radius. As a result, we’d definitely recommend booking before your trip!
Visit website
The Swan
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, & Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Dog Friendly, Family
For a standout Sunday lunch, head to The Swan for hand-carved beef, pork or turkey with all the trimmings. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will love the homemade British puddings. For example, choose from sticky toffee pudding, crumble, indulgent cheesecakes and local dairy ice cream.
A Grasmere Gingerbread Stop
Wordsworth’s Signature Gingerbread ShopVictorian cook Sarah Nelson invented Grasmere Gingerbread in 1854. She first made the iconic treat in the kitchen of what is now The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. At first, she sold the spicy-sweet gingerbread, a cross between a biscuit and a cake, from a tabletop on a tree stump outside her cottage.
Today, this remarkable legacy is still a highlight of any visit to Grasmere. Third-generation owners Joanne and Andrew Hunter run the shop, and they still use the original secret recipe. As a result, visitors from all over the world leave with freshly baked treats.
Of course, a stop at the gingerbread shop is a must for any visitor. However, get there as early as you can, because queues often form before the shop even opens!
Visit website
Places to Eat in Windermere and Bowness, Lake District
Staying nearby? Our Wyke View retreat in Bowness-on-Windermere is a short drive from these restaurants in the Lake District, and you can browse all our luxury Lake District cottages here.
Windermere also deserves a mention for luxury dining. In particular, you’ll find standout hotel restaurants around the lake and across the Lake District National Park.Gilpin Hotel
Fine Dining – Dinner Reservations, Tasting Menu, Vegetarian Options
Gilpin Hotel, on Crook Road near Bowness-on-Windermere, is a strong choice for a special occasion. It retained its Michelin star in 2023. Also, the tasting menu with optional wine pairing makes for a polished, high-end evening.
Linthwaite House Hotel
Modern British – Lunch & Dinner Reservations, Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Linthwaite House Hotel is a smart pick if you want refined dining with a more relaxed feel. Its restaurant, Henrock, also brings global influences to the menu and setting.
Langdale Chase
British – Lunch & Dinner Reservations, Vegetarian Options, Gluten Free Options
Langdale Chase has a beautiful restaurant with lovely views over Lake Windermere. As a result, it’s a memorable stop for dining by the water.
Casual Places to Eat in Kendal and Beyond
Pedro’s CasaMexican – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Take Away, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Pedro’s is a great stop for family and friends who love Mexican food! Its extensive menu has something for everyone. In addition, the friendly service makes dining here a delight.
Visit website
Thai Kitchen in Lakeland
Thai – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Take Away, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
In 2006, Thai Kitchen in Lakeland began catering for dinner parties at homes and holiday cottages across Cumbria. After that, the business grew. Then, in 2016, it joined Kendal’s street food scene and began catering at local and national events. The food is truly excellent, so it’s a great choice for an evening in that won’t disappoint!
Visit website
The Black Labrador
British – Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Head over to the Black Labrador for a warm welcome in a cosy, traditional Cumbrian country pub. It’s tucked away in one of the Lake District’s best-kept secrets, the beautiful Lyth Valley. Also, it’s a great spot for family and friends to enjoy a full lunch or evening meal!
Marra 46 Cafe
British Contemporary – Lunch & Dinner
Reservations, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Marra 46 has a great range of takeaway meals, cakes and coffee! Alternatively, take a seat in their charming courtyard café, which oozes historic character and serves a modern light menu. You can also find the Marra team at The Factory Tap on Aynam Road, serving sourdough pizza on Tuesday and Friday evenings.
Kendal Cafés and Bistros
The Joshua TreeBritish – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Highchairs Available, Dog Friendly
The Joshua Tree is a delightful, fully licensed café & bistro in one of Kendal’s oldest buildings. By day it’s a coffee shop, while the famous Starter & Pudding Club meets monthly in the evening! It’s tucked away in one of Kendal’s historic yards. In summer, the sunny courtyard catches the rays. Meanwhile, in winter, a cosy log fire warms anyone escaping a chilly morning or afternoon. Above all, the team prepares all the food fresh, using local ingredients.
Farmhouse Kitchen
British – Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options, Takeout, Reservations, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible
The Farmhouse Kitchen is an excellent artisan café in the historic town of Kendal. It’s open seven days a week, serving all-day breakfasts, lunches, salads, toasties and ciabattas. In addition, there are hearty vegan and vegetarian meals. In short, there’s something for everyone at the Farmhouse!
Have we missed one of your favourite restaurants in the Lake District? Let us know, and if you need somewhere to stay, take a look at our Lake District holiday cottages.
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