20 best Michelin star restaurants in the Lake District

Gilpin Spice

If you’re looking for a gastronomic adventure in the Lake District, you won’t be disappointed. I was seriously impressed at the number of Michelin-star restaurants in the Lake District, where you can indulge in some of the finest cuisine in the UK.

Each restaurant has its own unique style, but they all share a passion for using the freshest local ingredients to create exquisite dishes.

Sourcing ingredients from farms and gardens on site is not uncommon, while foraging also informs many of the ingredients on the menus of these fine dining establishments. 

In my guide to the best restaurants in the Lake District, I share my top picks of both Michelin-star restaurants and a selection of Michelin-recommended spots.

These have been chosen based on my own personal experiences at the restaurants, plus recommendations from locals and fellow travellers.

Foodies, buckle up! You’re in for a treat.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Best Michelin star restaurants in the Lake District

1. L’Enclume, Cartmel

Address: Cavendish St, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QA

Michelin rating: Three stars

Best for: Coveted three Michelin stars

L'Enclume
Cristian Barnett Photography

Tucked away in the picturesque village of Cartmel, L’Enclume stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in the heart of the Lake District.

Boasting a seriously impressive three Michelin stars and numerous accolades, it isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a gastronomic destination.

Set within a historic blacksmith’s forge, the restaurant has artfully preserved its rustic character. And this is blended seamlessly with contemporary design elements.

I love that the stone walls, combined with modern furnishings, create an intimate ambiance that pays homage to both the past and the present.

At the helm of L’Enclume’s culinary journey is Chef Simon Rogan. Renowned for his innovative approach to British cuisine, Rogan crafts dishes that resonate with purity, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to local produce.

He believes in celebrating ingredients in their most natural form, letting their inherent flavours shine.

L'Enclume Gastronomy
Cristian Barnett Photography

One of the standout features of L’Enclume is its direct link to Rogan’s own 16-acre farm that supplies the majority of the ingredients used in the kitchen.

This farm-to-table approach ensures that diners receive the freshest produce, picked at its peak. 

While the menu at L’Enclume is ever-evolving with the seasons, every dish tells a story of Cartmel’s terroir.

Guests might be treated to aged beef adorned with charcoal oil and Westcombe dumplings, or scallops marinated in fermented celeriac. 

L’Enclume’s wine list is as meticulously curated as its menu. With a focus on biodynamic and organic wines, the selection complements the dishes flawlessly. 

This is undoubtedly one of the very best restaurants in the Lake District, and one I’d recommend for a special occasion.

2. SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere

Address: Crook Road, Windermere LA23 3NF

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: Exquisite food without any pretentiousness

SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel represents the pinnacle of modern gastronomy and is an unmissable Michelin-star restaurant in the Lake District.

The restaurant garnered a Michelin star shortly after the arrival of the celebrated chef, Ollie Bridgwater. SOURCE has since rapidly established itself as a must-visit destination for food aficionados.

Ollie Bridgwater is no stranger to culinary excellence. He honed his craft for nearly a decade at Heston Blumenthal’s three Michelin Starred Fat Duck.

Central to SOURCE’s ethos is an unwavering commitment to local produce, seasonality, and sustainability. 

I had the tasting menu with wine pairing, and every dish was a masterclass in precision and artistry. From the gin and tonic appetiser which bursts in your mouth to the fresh flavours of the cod and the succulent beef.

It was one of those meals that you think about for a long time after!

Insider tip: Allow time before dinner to have a tipple or two in the inviting champagne bar. They also do a fantastic afternoon tea here.

Read my full review of staying at Gilpin Lake House.

3. Cottage in the Wood, Braithwaite

Address: Magic Hill, Braithwaite, Keswick CA12 5TW

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: A dreamy woodland setting

Cottage in the Wood Gastronomy

Perched amidst the serene woodlands of Braithwaite, the Cottage in the Wood offers more than just an exceptional dining experience.

This hidden gem in the Lake District is a perfect example of culinary craftsmanship, melded seamlessly with the raw beauty of nature.

I adore the location of this restaurant, ensconced in the wooded embrace of the Whinlatter Forest. It provides an intimate and rustic setting that feels utterly enchanting.

The menu is a dynamic blend of traditional British fare and modern culinary technique.

Cottage in the Wood

The emphasis on local, fresh, and seasonal produce ensures that every dish resonates with the authentic flavours of the region.

From freshly caught fish to succulent local meats and hand-picked herbs, each ingredient has a story. The result is plates which capture the essence of the Lake District.

Beyond the exquisite food and enchanting locale, it’s the warmth of the staff and the attention to detail that truly defines the experience at the Cottage in the Wood.

4. Old Stamp House, Ambleside

Address: Old Stamp House, The, Church St, Ambleside LA22 0BU

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: An intimate setting

Old Stamp House Food
© Bacon on the Beech

The Old Stamp House can be found in what was once the office of iconic poet William Wordsworth, and is another of the best Michelin-star restaurants in the Lake District.

This restaurant harmoniously blends history, culture, and gastronomy into a singular, unforgettable experience.

The setting provides a unique atmosphere, where the echoes of Wordsworth’s poetic legacy merge seamlessly with culinary artistry.

Beyond its literary connection, the restaurant’s setting on Church Street has additional historic charm.

Old Stamp House, Ambleside

Opening its doors in 2014, the intimate 28-cover establishment is helmed by the Blackburn brothers: Ryan, the head chef, and Craig, the restaurant manager.

While the Lake District’s landscape undoubtedly influences the region’s cuisine, the Old Stamp House Restaurant delves deeper, highlighting a lesser-known facet of Cumbrian food culture.

The region’s historic ties to global seafaring trade with the Americas, Caribbean, and India have ushered in a unique blend of flavours and ingredients.

Old Stamp House
© Bacon on the Beech

Iconic ports such as Whitehaven and Maryport, facilitated the arrival of spices like pepper, mace, ginger, sugar, and rum.

These exotic imports are intricately woven into Cumbria’s culinary narrative. They provide a rich backdrop against which the restaurant sets its offerings.

Every meal at the Old Stamp House celebrates the dedication of local farmers, fishermen, and artisanal producers whose contributions are indispensable to the restaurant’s success.

5. Forest Side, Grasmere

Address: Keswick Road, Grasmere, Ambleside LA22 9RN

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: A dining experience that reflects the landscape

The Forest Side Dining

Championing the best seasonal produce that the Lake District offers, Head Chef Paul Leonard and his dedicated team transform fresh, locally sourced components into unforgettable dishes. 

Every dish presented at Forest Side speaks of its journey. Right from the field, fell top, or even the forest floor, all the way to your plate.

What isn’t available locally is cultivated with care in their own expansive kitchen garden. This generously supplies around 60% of the restaurant’s seasonal fruit and vegetable needs, which I think is simply wonderful.

Foraging is also a big part of the ingredient sourcing at Forest Side, delving deep into the Cumbrian landscape.

The Forest Side Lounge

The team’s commitment to authenticity sees them venturing into nature. Be it for a particular leaf, berry, flower, or sea herbs from secret coastal spots. 

I also love that the restaurant’s physical space is an embodiment of Grasmere’s charm. Light-filled interiors open up to terraces adorned with Lakeland slate, providing tantalising glimpses of the Lakeland Fells.

Complementing this natural beauty, the restaurant incorporates bespoke reclaimed timber and steel tables crafted by local artisans.

Book a stay at Forest Side Hotel.

6. Allium at Askham Hall, Askham

Address: Askham Hall, Askham, Penrith CA10 2PF

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: Ingredients from the garden

Allium at Askham Hall Restaurant

At Allium at Askham Hall, the culinary narrative is dictated by the life cycles of its gardens and fields.

Seasonal transitions are eagerly awaited, not just for the change in weather, but for the fresh range of ingredients they usher in.

Askham Hall’s culinary brigade, led by the talented Head Chef Richard Swale, is a force to reckon with.

Small in number, but unparalleled in passion and talent, the team’s sole mission is to celebrate and elevate the produce from their gardens and farms. 

Allium at Askham Hall

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, Allium welcomes both those staying at Askham Hall and visitors.

Guests can embark on a gastronomic journey with Richard’s meticulously crafted six-course tasting menu, priced at £125 per person.

For those wishing to elevate their dining experience, I’d really recommend the optional wine pairing which is available at an additional £95 per person.

These wines, handpicked by Maître D’, Nico, from Charles’ expansive and ancient cellar, complement the dishes in a symphony of flavours.

7. Heft, Newton in Cartmel

Address: High Newton, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6JH

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: Locally foraged ingredients

Heft
Jenny Jones Photography

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District lies Heft. It’s a 17th-century village inn that pays homage to the rich traditions and heritage of the region.

The inn, beautifully restored by native Cumbrians, Kevin and Nicola Tickle, fits perfectly within the area’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene.

Heft Restaurant
Phil Rigby Photography

Heft is more than just a Michelin-starred restaurant. Alongside Kevin’s extraordinary tasting menu, this inn offers you a chance to experience true Cumbrian hospitality.

For those seeking a relaxed setting, the bar provides an array of quality beers and meticulously selected wines.

Heft Dessert
Jenny Jones Photography

Seasonal small plates and snacks accompany these beverages. They offer guests a sneak peek into the flavours awaiting them in the main restaurant.

Drawing inspiration from the changing seasons, the surrounding landscape, and his foraging expeditions, Kevin crafts unforgettable dishes.

The inn also boasts five elegantly appointed guest rooms, and I’d really recommend staying overnight to complete your experience at this charming spot.

8. Rogan & Co, Cartmel

Address: Devonshire House, Devonshire Square, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QD

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: A more laid back alternative to L’Enclume

Rogan & Co
Cristian Barnett Photography

Tucked away in the heart of a picturesque village, beside a gentle stream, lies Rogan & Co – the relaxed cousin of the famed L’Enclume.

This delightful establishment resides in a charming cottage, exuding a sense of warmth and a welcoming ambience that visitors find hard to resist.

The interior boasts a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern aesthetics. Think dark wood beams, inviting open fires, and walls adorned with exquisite Lakeland photography.

The atmosphere inside Rogan & Co is one of relaxed sophistication, further accentuated by its chatty and amiable serving team.

Simon Rogan’s culinary prowess is evident throughout the menu, which emphasises clean, elegant, and expertly crafted dishes.

Rogan & Co Restaurant
Cristian Barnett Photography

It’s no wonder then that the produce, either lovingly cultivated on his own farm in the Cartmel Valley or sourced from esteemed Lake District suppliers, stands out in every bite.

Guests can immerse themselves in a curated culinary journey, choosing three courses from a seasonally inspired selection.

The dining experience is punctuated with delightful snacks to begin the meal. Followed by a pre-dessert palate cleanser and culminating with delicate petit fours.

The three-course selection, including snacks, is priced at £79 per person and is available for both lunch and dinner.

9. Dog and Gun Inn, Skelton

Address: Skelton, Penrith CA11 9SE

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: Pub meets fine dining

Dog and Gun Inn

At the heart of the Lake District lies The Dog and Gun. It’s an authentic village pub that’s popular with locals, exuding genuine warmth and integrity.

This charming establishment is a nod to the timeless virtues of traditional pubs: comfort, authenticity, and heartwarming cuisine.

Under the expert guidance of Chef-owner Ben Queen-Fryer, the inn offers dishes that resonate with passion and inherent skill.

Ben’s approach to cuisine is clear: create dishes that are not only familiar and hearty but also brim with flavour.

Dog and Gun Inn Souffle

The brilliance lies in the simplicity, as every dish showcases the rich bounty of local produce. 

Each plate is a delightful blend of pure, uncomplicated elements, allowing the natural tastes to shine.

Among the must-try offerings are the succulent soufflés, sensational seafood, and some of the finest triple-cooked chips the region has to offer. My mouth is watering already!

Paired with a refreshing local pint, the dining experience at The Dog and Gun is truly memorable.

10. The Samling, Ambleside

Address: Ambleside Rd, Windermere LA23 1LR

Michelin rating: One star

Best for: Breathtaking views

The Samling Hotel

Another of the best Michelin-star restaurants in the Lake District is The Samling. This impressive restaurant is set against the backdrop of panoramic lake views – one of my favourite things about this particular spot.

Under the culinary stewardship of Executive Head Chef Robby Jenks, the essence of every dish revolves around a purity of flavour. 

Whether it’s nurtured in The Samling’s own greenhouse and gardens or procured locally, each ingredient represents the rich bounty the region has to offer.

The Samling Gastronomy

The rhythm of the seasons also finds its reflection in Robby’s meticulously curated menus. He ensures that diners are treated to the very best of what the time of year has to offer.

Matching the tranquil grandeur of the surrounding lakes and mountains, the dishes at The Samling Hotel are characterised by bold, unadulterated flavours.

The Samling Restaurant

A four-course lunch menu is available for a set price of £80 and an optional wine pairing for £65.

Or for the evening diners, the Samling Tasting Menu is a real treat to behold with the likes of Iberico ham, cod and Wagyu beef.

It’s priced at £150 per person, with a wine pairing option at £115. A dedicated vegetarian menu is also available.

Book a stay at The Samling Hotel.

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Best Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Lake District

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s truly exceptional, then you can’t go wrong with the abundance of Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Lake District.

These restaurants have been recognised for their exceptional quality and service, and offer a range of menus to suit every taste.

1. Knipe Grill at Gilpin Lake House, Bowness-On-Windermere

Address: Knipe Tarn, Kendal LA8 8LN

Best for: Barbecue flavours

Note that this is a seasonal restaurant and is closed over the winter months.

Knipe Grill

This gem is tucked within the luxurious confines of Gilpin Lake House, promising an unparalleled dining experience.

True to the spirit of Cumbria, Knipe Grill‘s concise menu champions local produce, ensuring every dish sings a symphony of authenticity. 

What distinguishes Knipe Grill from other Lake District restaurants is its method of cooking and finishing dishes over wood or coals.

This imparts an extra irresistible layer of flavour, that evokes the rustic charm of traditional Cumbrian cuisine – and trust me when I say that the result is mouth-wateringly good!

Complementing this culinary prowess is the impeccable service – a harmonious blend of formality and warmth that enhances the overall experience.

The restaurant itself boasts of an orangery-inspired design, which blends seamlessly with nature and views which surround it. 

2. Kysty, Ambleside

Address: 3/4 Cheapside, Ambleside LA22 0AB

Best for: A relaxed dining spot

Kysty
Jenny Jones Photography

Situated just a hop, skip, and a jump away from its elder sibling, the Old Stamp House, Kysty exudes a charm all its own. 

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Lake District, Kysty stands as a true embodiment of Cumbrian culinary heritage.

At its helm are the Blackburn brothers, Ryan and Craig. They have crafted a dining experience deeply rooted in the essence of Cumbria.

Kysty Restaurant
Jenny Jones Photography

Founded in 2018, Kysty’s inception was fueled by the brothers’ unwavering dedication to serving outstanding food.

Their core tenets were straightforward yet profound: the dishes should be seasonal, innovative, and above all, mouth-wateringly delicious. 

Simple in approach but grand in flavours, each dish speaks of the region’s seasonal produce.

The restaurant prides itself on collaborating exclusively with small-scale artisanal producers who pour their heart into cultivating high-quality produce.

3. Henrock, Bowness-On-Windermere

Address: Linthwaite House Hotel, Crook Ln, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3JA

Best for: Informal elegance

Henrock Mussels

Henrock can be found in the luxury Linthwaite House Hotel overlooking the majestic fells of Windermere. It’s another of the best Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Lake District.

I’ve mentioned him a few times but Simon Rogan is once again the mastermind behind this delightful spot. He merges timeless British culinary traditions with innovative techniques and flavours gleaned from across the world.

Henrock’s unique allure lies in its perfect balance between local and global. Every dish is a symphony of fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring unparalleled freshness and authenticity.

Henrock Pollock

Yet, the spirit of wanderlust is palpable, as each creation seamlessly integrates flavours and methods discovered during the team’s journeys across continents.

Guests can tuck into a very tempting set menu priced at £75 per person. You can select three courses from an array of seasonal offerings, plus enjoy delicious appetisers, a delightful pre-dessert and exquisite petit fours. 

Sunday afternoons at Henrock make the most of the joy of shared feasting. Apart from the set menu, diners have the exclusive option of indulging in a special sharing main course, available for an additional charge.

Book a stay at Linthwaite House Hotel or read my guide to the best luxury hotels in the Lake District.

4. Gilpin Spice, Bowness-On-Windermere

Address: Gilpin Hotel, Crook Rd, Kendal LA23 3NF

Best for: Asian flavours

Gilpin Spice

Another of the exceptional gastronomic offers at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House is the more laid-back – but still exquisite – Gilpin Spice.

I had the most exception lunchtime meal here – awarded two prestigious AA Rosettes, it seamlessly blends Cumbria’s rich spice-trade heritage with contemporary pan-Asian culinary artistry.

Rooted deeply in Cumbria’s storied past as a hub of the spice trade, the local cuisine has always embraced a dash of the exotic.

One of the best Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Lake District, this laid-back dining venue pays homage to the spice trail, drawing culinary inspirations from a spectrum of Asian nations.

At the helm is Welsh chef Tom ‘Westy’ Westerland, who brings both unparalleled experience and an unmistakable flair for storytelling. 

Designed with a keen eye for detail, the restaurant’s ambiance evokes the vibrant atmosphere of the Silk Road.

The wooden walkways over stone-filled pools guide guests into the brightly coloured restaurant itself, reminiscent of bustling Asian markets.

The open-plan kitchen acts as the pulsating heart of the restaurant. It offers diners a theatrical vantage point from the plush kitchen counter couches.

This is one of my personal favourites – read my full review of staying at Gilpin Lake House.

5. Lake Road Kitchen, Ambleside

Address: Lake Rd, Ambleside LA22 0AD

Best for: Scandi influence

Lake Road Kitchen
Alyn Nicholls

Situated in the picturesque town of Ambleside, Lake Road Kitchen is a multi-award-winning culinary haven in the heart of the Lake District.

With a distinct design that seamlessly marries Scandinavian aesthetics with Lake District charm, the restaurant exudes warmth and intimacy.

I love the cosy ambiance created by the sheepskin draped chairs and wooden planked walls, transporting diners to a Nordic retreat.

Instead of traditional menus, guests are treated to surprise servings. Meticulously crafted dishes arrive at the table accompanied by in-depth narratives of their creation.

The restaurant prides itself on its ‘hyper-seasonal, climatically local cooking’ ethos.

This commitment to seasonality and sustainability translates to an impressive repertoire of preserving, pickling, and harmonising with nature.

It’s no wonder that the mastermind behind such an innovative approach, James Cross, once honed his skills at the globally acclaimed Noma in Copenhagen.

His vision for Lake Road Kitchen, however, is distinct, aiming to offer a unified dining experience rather than a series of individual dishes.

Diners can opt for either an 8 or 12-serving experience, with the option of matched wines to elevate your meal.

6. 1863, Pooley Bridge

Address: Elm House, High St, Pooley Bridge, Penrith CA10 2NH

Best for: Warm and inviting hospitality

In the scenic Lake District village of Pooley Bridge, nestled on the shores of Ullswater, stands a historic establishment: 1863.

With a legacy spanning over 150 years, this cornerstone of the village has evolved through time. It transitioned from its origins as a village blacksmith to serving as the local post office.

Today, 1863 seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. With seven elegant rooms, it’s more than merely a restaurant and is driven by a family’s passion for hospitality.  Guests often return time and time again to relive the magic of this inviting bistro. 

Diners are spoilt for choice, with options ranging from a delectable three-course dinner to an immersive seven-course tasting journey.

Each dish speaks volumes of 1863’s commitment to spotlighting quality, local, and seasonal produce. Plus, there’s always an element of surprise awaiting the discerning palate.

Chef Phil Corrie, in a span of just over six years, has masterfully transformed 1863 from a new entrant in a seasonal tourist locale to an acclaimed year-round gastronomic haven.

The essence of 1863 isn’t just in its food. It’s in the stories it tells, the conversations it fosters, and the memories it creates. 

Book a stay at 1863.

7. Rothay Manor, Ambleside

Address: Borrans Rd, Ambleside LA22 0EH

Best for: An elegant setting

Rothay Manor

Another of the best Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Lake District, this restaurant can be found in the beautiful country house hotel Rothay Manor.

This elegant dining haven marries traditional decor full of charm with the vibrant allure of William Morris wallpapers and striking chandeliers.

Yet, it’s not just the décor that tells a tale, but the plates that come out of its kitchen.

The kitchen team is led by Daniel McGeorge. A Liverpool native, he has honed his skills at some of the UK’s most distinguished restaurants, including the revered Bath Priory.

Daniel draws inspiration from the enchanting local landscape, masterfully blending it with influences from Japanese and Scandinavian cuisines.

A fierce advocate for the North’s bounty, Daniel predominantly sources his meat from the lush terrains of Cumbria and fresh fish from the North East coast.

Daniel is joined by a brigade of skilled chefs who share his fervour for delivering unmatched quality.

This shared passion has rightfully earned Rothay Manor its 3 AA rosettes for culinary brilliance, not just once but for four consecutive years. This culminated in the accolade of a Michelin Plate in 2021.

I’d recommend Rothay Manor for both a romantic dinner in the evening, as well as leisurely Sunday lunches for families and friends.

Book a stay at Rothay Manor.

8. Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite

Address: Punch Bowl Inn Crosthwaite Lyth Valley, Kendal LA8 8HR

Best for: Old world charm

Steeped in history and charm, The Punch Bowl Inn traces its roots back to 1829, where it started life as a blacksmith’s shop.

Today, after a meticulous refurbishment, the inn seamlessly marries its storied past with the sophisticated comforts of modernity. The Punch Bowl Inn invites guests to a tranquil retreat.

You’re greeted with an inviting old-world charm as you step into this AA Inn of the Year 2023.

From the quaint beamed bar where you can sip on a local brew and relish homemade pork scratchings, to the luxurious bedrooms.

Nestled amidst the serene backdrop of the Lyth Valley, The Punch Bowl occupies a wonderfully tranquil setting.

Whether you’ve returned from a challenging trek on the fells, a cycling expedition, or a leisurely stroll through Lakeland’s picturesque villages, a resplendent retreat awaits.

The crackling warmth of a roaring fire in colder months, or the gentle embrace of sunshine on the terrace during sunnier days, makes it the quintessential haven to relax and rejuvenate.

The award-winning kitchen prides itself on crafting modern dishes infused with the freshest regional produce. And every dish celebrates the spirit of the Lakes.

Richard Rose, the inn’s passionate owner and a lifelong resident of the Lake District, has poured his heart into ensuring guests experience the genuine warmth of Lakeland hospitality. 

Book to stay at The Punch Bowl Inn.

9. Sun Inn, Kirkby Lonsdale

Address: 6 Market St, Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth LA6 2AU

Best for: A classic pub feel

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque market town of Kirkby Lonsdale lies the Sun Inn. It’s a 17th-century haven that exudes the charm and elegance of its rich history.

Amidst the stone-walled allure of this traditional inn, guests are invited to a culinary experience that resonates with warmth, authenticity, and exceptional craftsmanship.

The inn’s dining options are versatile, whether you’re in the mood for a casual bar snack, an indulgent dinner, or a sumptuous Sunday lunch.

There’s a spot for everyone – from the cosy confines of the bar, the intimate ambiance of the restaurant, to a special area that welcomes our furry canine friends.

Head Chef Joe Robinson’s experience extends from Edinburgh’s buzzing food scene to the coastal delicacies of Cornwall, and even beyond UK shores to Sydney and France.

Drawing inspiration from the verdant landscapes of Cumbria, Lancashire, and Yorkshire, Joe crafts menus that make the most of the regions’ finest produce. 

The culmination of Joe’s unparalleled dedication and talent is evident in the two coveted AA Rosettes that the Sun Inn proudly boasts.

The experience is not just limited to the restaurant itself. Just a stone’s throw away, the enchanting river invites guests for a serene pre-dinner stroll. Post-stroll, the inn’s characterful bar beckons with local beers to sip on.

As the night draws to a close, the inn’s cosy bedrooms promise restful slumbers and I’d really recommend staying overnight for the full experience.

Good to know: The kitchen is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. But light lunches and all-day sharing boards are available on these days.

Book to stay at the Sun Inn.

10. Drunken Duck Inn, Ambleside

Address: Barngates, Ambleside LA22 0NG

Best for: A much-loved local inn

This much-loved inn, affectionately dubbed ‘the Duck’ by locals, is nestled amidst the scenic splendour of the Lake District.

While its facade paints the quintessential image of a country pub, a closer look reveals the wonderful experiences waiting to be unfurled.

Boutique bedrooms adorned in a contemporary-country flair offer terraces with mesmerising fell views.

The culinary narrative of the Drunken Duck Inn sets it apart from conventional pubs.

The expansive semi-open kitchen, bustling with a dedicated team, heralds the promise of gastronomic adventures that go beyond traditional pub fare.

Food is marked by audacious flavours, innovative pairings, and a touch of whimsy, and every dish is an ode to the Chef’s ingenuity and respect for ingredients.

But what’s a visit to ‘the Duck’ without indulging in their renowned brews? The bar proudly showcases around eight of their own ales, crafted with dedication and passion.

Complementing this is a meticulously curated wine list, where choices are plenty, prices are reasonable, and quality is paramount – with an impressive selection available by the glass.

Good to know: The Drunken Duck Inn does not accept bookings with dogs. So best to visit elsewhere if you’ll be accompanied by your furry friend.

See more of my Lake District content:

Planning a trip to this beautiful part of the UK? Discover my Lake District travel guide or read more of my Lake District articles:

If you have any Lake District restaurant favourites then let me know in the comments!

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Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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