A Weekend of Eating and Drinking Local

Discover the Taste of The Lake District, Eden Valley & Beyond.

If your idea of heaven is tucking into farm-fresh cheeses, sipping small-batch spirits, and browsing local markets in a landscape of rolling hills and ancient stone villages, then this  foodie itinerary is for you. We’ve crafted the perfect weekend guide for lovers of hyper-local cuisine and rural charm—based around Rowley Estates‘ luxurious self-catering properties in the north-eastern Lake District and Eden Valley.

Day 1: Arrival and a Taste of Eden

Check In at The Rowley Estates

Choose from a collection of luxurious heritage homes like Glassonby Old Hall, Stag Cottage, or beautifully situated and luxuriously appointed Shepherds Huts with your own private stretch of riverside.

Dinner at The Dog & Gun, Skelton

A Michelin award-winning country gastropub with a relaxed fine-dining feel. Think: venison, wild herbs, and Cumbrian rhubarb tarts.

Day 2: From the Estate Garden to Gin at the Hall

Morning: Pick Your Own Raspberries at Rowley Estates

In summer (July–August), Rowley Estates guests can enjoy a “pick your own raspberries” experience. Wander down from your cottage and harvest sun-ripened berries—perfect for breakfast, baking, or an afternoon gin cocktail.

Tip: Perfect with fresh yogurt or pair with a warm croissant.

Morning: Basecamp North Lakes Farm Shop

A new gem just off the A66, Basecamp North Lakes is a farmer-owned, independent food hall and café with a mission to celebrate ultra-local produce. Expect artisan bread, farm-butchered meats, and seasonal vegetables grown nearby—plus Cumbrian milk, cheese, honey, chutneys, and craft drinks.

Dont miss: The Old Village Bakery & Tearoom, Melmerby

Pop into this artisan bakery in the village of Melmerby for slow-fermented sourdough, cinnamon swirls, lemon drizzle and amazing coffee!

Lunch: Appleby Creamery + Scenic Picnic

Choose some incredible Eden Valley cheeses, including Eden Smokie, which won a gold award at The Great Yorkshire Show and head out for a gentle walk to the wonderfully mysterious stone circle, Long Meg and Her Daughters, a scenic and peaceful lunch spot.

Afternoon: Black Cat Distillery at Brougham Hall

An artisanal gin distillery set in historic Brougham Hall. Sample a selection of small-batch gins infused with botanicals foraged locally—ask about the raspberry-gin cocktails in summer!

Open year-round; booking recommended for workshops or tastings.

Dinner: The Fetherston Arms, Kirkoswald

A friendly village pub pouring Eden River Brew Co ales and hearty homemade meals. Popular with locals and walkers alike.

Day 3: Wild Walks & Flavours to Take Home

Morning: Wild Food UK Foraging Course

Learn about edible plants, herbs, and fungi growing wild in Cumbria’s hedgerows and woods. A great way to connect with nature and elevate your cooking.

Lunch: Self-Catered Feast

Back at your estate kitchen, create a brunch using fresh eggs, foraged herbs, and leftovers from your artisan finds. Don’t forget those Rowley raspberries—try them in a garden-fresh Eton Mess!

Final Stop: Abbott Lodge Jersey Ice Cream & Farm Shop

Just 10 minutes from Ullswater, this working dairy farm offers a charming, small farm shop and over 30 flavours of homemade Jersey ice cream made on-site using milk from their own herd.

Beyond ice cream, the farm stall sells local free-range eggs, small-batch jams and chutneys, biscuits, honey, and Cumbrian milk Rustic snacks and treats perfect for road trips.

It’s great for kids too—with calves to visit, picnic benches, and gentle farm trails.

Where to Stay:

At the heart of your culinary escape are Rowley Estates’ handpicked luxury holiday  homes. Whether you’re planning a romantic cottage getaway or a celebratory feast with family, these homes are designed for authentic food lovers—beautiful kitchens, long dining tables, and access to all the local flavours listed above.

Tips for a Flawless Foodie Weekend:

• Book ahead for tastings and tables—especially weekends.

• Bring a cool bag to transport wine, cheese, and meats.

• Ask your Rowley hosts for tips—they’re passionate locals with insider knowledge.

• This itinerary is based on venues open as of 2025—please check each link before you travel.

Let your tastebuds lead the way through the Eden Valley. The Lakes offer more than breathtaking views—they offer a warm welcome and a seat at the local table.