Top Restaurants in the Lake District

High-end restaurants

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or hoping to sample some of the finest cooking in the North West, these high-end restaurants are undoubtedly the best places to eat in the Lake District.

L’Enclume

Chef Simon Rogan’s world-famous restaurant, L’Enclume, is located in the village of Cartmel. Housed in a former smithy, the three Michelin-starred restaurant retains much of the building’s original charm, offering an intimate dining experience. Their seasonal tasting menu features ingredients from the restaurant’s farm, combining classic flavours with a contemporary twist.

The Old Stamp House

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ambleside, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves food inspired by Cumbria’s heritage, landscape and people. Seasonal tasting menus are available for lunch and dinner, showcasing the finest ingredients from the region.

Allium at Askham Hall

Askham Hall is a stunning stately home on the Lowther Estate near Penrith, home to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Allium, and 19 rooms. The seasonal tasting menu features produce from the estate and its surrounding areas, enabling guests to enjoy the best flavours of Cumbria in a stunning and unique setting.

Mid-range restaurants

From hearty home cooking to European-inspired fare, these mid-range restaurants provide the perfect pit stop after a day exploring the Lake District.

The Fellpack

The Fellpack in Keswick serves hearty and warming dishes like chilli, pasta, ramen and curries, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available. Fellpack has two restaurants and a coffee shop in Keswick but also organises group hikes, runs, swims and spa experiences. If you love adventure, be sure to check this place out!

Francine’s

Enjoy French-inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere at this popular bistro in Windermere. The menu predominantly features fish and meat dishes, with their signature seafood casserole being a much-loved favourite.

Gilpin Spice

The menu at this pan-Asian restaurant is inspired by Cumbria’s historic role in the spice trade. Enjoy tapas-style sharing plates that offer a modern take on traditional dishes from the Philippines, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan and China.

Best affordable restaurants in the Lake District

If you want a tasty meal that won’t break the bank, try these affordable restaurants in the Lake District, where you can sample delicious local produce from across the region.

Fellinis

This restaurant specialises in ‘Vegeterranean’ cuisine, showcasing Mediterranean flavours and seasonal vegetarian ingredients. You’ll also find an independent cinema above the restaurant, making this the perfect place to enjoy a meal before watching a film or live screening.

Comida

Head to Comida in Kendal for a Spanish-inspired brunch, or try their tapas menu served at lunch and dinner. You’ll find plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options on the menu here, with the vegan albondigas being a particular highlight. The meat version is equally popular, alongside classic tapas dishes like gambas pil pil, jamon serrano and boquerones.

Looking for a cosy pub in the Lake District to stop at en-route home? Our dedicated guide has the best spots to enjoy delicious pub grub, a light lunch or a hearty Sunday roast.