One thing you are certain to notice on any trip to the Lake District is that there is certainly no shortage of places to eat and drink. From humble fish and chip eateries to Michelin-star restaurants and steakhouses to quaint cafes, there is something to suit every budget and every palate. Plenty of coffee shops, more independent than chains, and pubs offer roaring log fires and fantastic beers. But where is best to try first? Our short guide will look at some of the best places to eat and drink in the Lake District.
Michelin Star restaurants
Cumbria is proud to have 15 Michelin stars, spread across 13 restaurants. This means that it is the location in the UK with the most Michelin stars outside of London, and that is quite an achievement. Here are just three such restaurants.
L’Enclume in Cartmel has been open for over 20 years and was awarded a converted third star in 2022. Not only that but it also has a Green Star for sustainability. This eatery is known for creative and innovative dishes showcasing incredibly fresh and where possible local ingredients, all of which are paired with their incredible wine list.
Rogan & Co, the “laid back cousin” of L’Enclume, and also owned by Simon Rogan, is also located in Cartmel. It offers a more simplistic but no less incredible menu.
Cafes
An essential for tourists and locals alike, the café is the heart of any location in the Lake District and offers a welcome shelter from the weather with a good selection of great food and hot drinks.
The Apple Pie Bakery in Ambleside has been serving visitors since 1975. It might have started as a bakery with a few tables. However, it now has an impressive eating space with indoor and outdoor dining options.
Low Sizergh Barn is an excellent place for those looking for hearty eats and generous portions of cake. They use locally sourced ingredients, many of which can be purchased in their farm shop, and even offer the option of raw milk both as a drink on its own and in their milkshakes.
Pubs
There isn’t a corner of the Lake District where you won’t find a pub serving a good selection of beers – exactly what you need to kick back with after a long, arduous walk. Many also have busy kitchens serving authentic pub staples. The Kirkstone Pass Inn is the highest pub in the area and the third highest in England, allowing you a great space to look out at while you eat and drink.
If you want a pub with a great view, then other options include The Old Dungeon Ghyll in the Great Langdale Valley, The Queens Head in Troutbeck or the Crafty Baa in Keswick, which offers a selection of craft beers and over 100 whiskies.
Of course, for the ultimate experience, why not combine a brewery tour with a chance to sample the beer. If you like the idea, head to The Fox Tap bar, which is owned by the Keswick Brewing Company.
Plant-based eateries
Dietary requirements are not forgotten in the Lake District, with vegetarians and vegans well catered for. In Ambleside, you will find Fellinis and Zeffirelli’s. Or, at Keswick, visit Café, Bar 26. All of these options offer menus that are 100% plant-based. You will also find many inventive dishes in most restaurants and cafes that stretch beyond a simple salad.
When it comes to eating out in the Lake District you really will be spoilt for choice – heck, you could easily eat great throughout the trip without leaving the hotel – so don’t forget to bring your appetite with you!
