Fabulous Food & Drink
Every year, the Lake District becomes better and better when it comes to food and drink. You’ll find some of the country’s best breweries, cheesemakers, butchers, roasters and bakers. From brilliant local producers to chefs coming up with brave new dishes and celebrating old favourites, there’s so much to enjoy on your visit. Here are a few of my all-time favourites and must-sees.
A proper country pub
The Britannia Inn in Elterwater is well known by regular visitors to the Langdales, and the place to go if you live locally or are staying at Braegarth nearby.
It’s a traditional country pub just around the corner from our Elterwater office so, if we don't have time to make lunch, we can enjoy one of their delicious hot or cold sandwich and chips. They serve a wide range of well-kept beer and proper English pub grub – make sure you try the chicken, ham and leek pie. It’s one of my favourites and homemade too!
Fine dining, fine surroundings
When I was having a chat in the Good Life office about where to take you on this journey, we quickly agreed I couldn’t leave out ‘THE best place for dinner’. Having recently received its first Michelin Star, the Old Stamp House in Ambleside is a true culinary experience. The talented team of chefs celebrate the county’s food heritage, with local ingredients and dishes inspired by traditional recipes from across the county.
The team have won numerous awards including the Cumbria Life Restaurant of the Year and Lake District Life Dining Experience of the Year. If you really appreciate good food, check out The Old Stamp House next time you’re in Ambleside or booking a stay in Courtyard Hideaway Cottage.
Home comforts
This one isn’t exactly a hidden gem! Homeground Coffee and Kitchen, on the high street in Windermere, serves a delicious range of meals, fresh coffees and amazing cakes.
When it’s on the menu you definitely have to sample their super popular fried chicken and waffles if you’ve got the appetite for it – if you like putting pictures of your food on Instagram, this place is perfect for you! Or choose sourdough toast and poached eggs for a hearty breakfast and local beers, like Hawkshead Brewery’s delicious range, if you’re visiting later in the day.
Staying in Windermere? Grab your morning coffees at Homeground, supplied by Carvetti Coffee Roasters. This husband and wife team supply cafes across the Lakes with their fabulous roasts as well as speciality teas. You can pick up a bag of beans to enjoy back in the comfort of your holiday cottage. If you’re as hooked as I am (or want to try a true taste of the Lakes before you get there), there’s also a mail-order service on their website.
Continue the journey
Let us take you on a journey to the Lake District from the comfort of your sofa! We’re bringing the best of England and Wales to you – so read on and experience Natalie from Good Life Lake District Cottages’ favourite places to go and some hidden gems, too. We’ve got plenty of nearby properties, and can’t wait to welcome you back soon…
