The Best Places to Eat in The Lake District

A Local’s Guide to Foodie Bliss in Cumbria (2025)

You’ve planned the perfect trip to the Lake District… but when it comes to food, there are so many choices.
TripAdvisor lists feel overwhelming. Google Maps shows every pub for 20 miles. And every blog seems a bit… vague. Is this place really worth it? Will it suit my kids? What if I just want a casual pint with decent food?

You’re not alone. The Lake District is known for jaw-dropping views, but finding genuinely great places to eat – without wasting a meal – can be surprisingly stressful.

Whether you’re a family looking for laid-back dining, a couple chasing a romantic gourmet experience, or a hiker hungry for a hearty pub lunch, this guide is your shortcut to the best places to eat in the Lake District – for every taste, mood, and budget, including must-visit spots closer to us here at The Rowley Estates, ideal for Ullswater and the northern Lakes.

Where to Eat in the Lake District: A Tailored Guide for Every Foodie Situation

Best Places for Families (Kid-Friendly & Welcoming)

The Bluebird Café, Coniston
Fellpack, Keswick
Granny Dowbekin’s Tearooms, Pooley Bridge (Ullswater)

Best Budget-Friendly Bites

Chesters by the River, Skelwith Bridge
Rattle Gill Café, Ambleside (Vegetarian)
The Secret Garden, Glenridding (Ullswater)

Best Pubs & Informal Dining (Great Food, No Fuss)

The Drunken Duck Inn, Ambleside
The Black Labrador, Underbarrow
The Horse and Farrier, Dacre (Near Ullswater)

Best for a Gourmet Experience (Fine Dining with a View)

L’Enclume, Cartmel
Forest Side, Grasmere
Askham Hall, Askham (Near Ullswater)

Beyond Restaurants: Explore the Lake District’s Culinary Scene

Grasmere Gingerbread
A one-of-a-kind blend of biscuit and cake, still made to a secret recipe from 1854. Stop by their tiny shop for a warm bite of tradition.

Cranstons Food Hall, Penrith
The perfect stop for regional cheeses, meats, pies, and picnic items—ideal if you’re staying self-catered or want local souvenirs.

Tebay Services Farmshop
The only motorway service station in the UK with its own farm. Pick up fresh local food en route—sustainably sourced and surprisingly delightful.

Culinary Events & Local Markets

Taste Cumbria Festival (Cockermouth)
A celebration of all things Cumbrian, from craft beers to chutneys, featuring cooking demos, food stalls, and chef showcases. Held annually in multiple locations.

Keswick Farmers’ Market
Held twice a month in Market Square, this vibrant market features local farmers, bakers, cheesemakers, and artisan producers.

Practical Dining Tips for Visitors

Reservations: Book ahead for gourmet restaurants like L’Enclume and Askham Hall—ideally 2–3 weeks in advance during busy months.
Dietary Needs: Most venues now cater for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets—check menus online or call to confirm.
Dog-Friendly Dining: Many pubs including The Horse & Farrier and The Black Labrador welcome dogs.
Avoid Peak Times: For a quieter experience, try dining just before or after the rush (before 12:30 PM or after 2 PM for lunch).

Quick Recap: What You’ll Find in the Lake District

Family-friendly: The Bluebird Café, Fellpack, Granny Dowbekin’s
Budget eats: Chesters by the River, Rattle Gill, The Secret Garden
Best pubs: The Drunken Duck, Black Labrador, Horse & Farrier
Gourmet dining: L’Enclume, Forest Side, Askham Hall
Local flavor: Grasmere Gingerbread, Cranstons, Tebay Farmshop
Events: Taste Cumbria, Keswick Farmers’ Market

FAQ: Eating Out in the Lake District

Where can I find vegan or vegetarian options in the Lake District?

Try Rattle Gill Café (Ambleside) or Fellpack (Keswick)—both offer excellent veggie dishes. Most restaurants now list allergens and plant-based items clearly.