When it comes to food and drink in Cartmel you are really spoilt for choice. Not only does one of the UK’s top chefs have two restaurants in the village but it’s also the home of that British classic – Sticky Toffee Pudding, one of the best cheese shops in Cumbria and a whole host of other brilliant cafe’s and delicatessens which will make your mouth Water! Here are some of our top picks for a Foodie’s holiday in Cartmel. If you fancy a foodie getaway take a peek at our Cartmel Cottages.
If Fine Dining is your thing then the two Michelin starred L’Enclume is a must visit. Regularly named one of the best restaurants in Cumbria, it’s head chef, the renowned Simon Rogan, uses local ingredients produced on his own farm to create truly beautiful food art in an environment which provides a feast for all five of the senses.
Lunch from £59
Tasting menu (lunch and Dinner) from £155
If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere head to L’Enclume’s sister restaurant Rogan & Co. This brasserie-style establishment offers a more casual dining experience but still adheres to the culinary principles of delicious local produce to create a taste sensation.
Starters from £9
Mains from £17
Desserts from £9
Sometimes you just need some comforting pub-grub, that’s exactly what the Pig and Whistle provides. Their menus change to reflect the season and are sourced from quality local suppliers, they also offer vegetarian, children’s and Tapas menus to suit all appetites and preferences. For the hungry meat lover, we suggest the juicy Wild Venison Burger which is sure to subdue any rumbling tummy and the Roast Beetroot and Goats Cheese Risotto is perfect for vegetarians who want a meal with a bit of pizzazz!
Starters from £4.50
Mains from £12.95
Desserts from £5.50
The Cavendish Arms has a fantastic reputation within the Lake District. Known as THE pub in which to dine, like all of Cartmel’s eateries it prides itself on sourcing the best local and season ingredients which are delivered fresh every day. With a menu that extends from French Bistro to good old-fashioned pub grub it certainly covers all the angles and will satisfy even the pickiest of diners.
Another great one for proper pub-grub the Royal Oak Inn serves Breakfast, lunch and dinner with everything from hand kneaded and twirled Pizzas to steak and onion rings. With a full A la Carte menu which is served from 12pm-10pm, there’s no way you can walk out hungry from this classic pub.
Marked by the Good Pub Guide as “worth a visit” the bustling 18-century pub is close to the beautiful Cartmel Priory and has all the character which you look for in a country pub. Flagstones, log fires, comfy sofas and local ales all create a great atmosphere especially at the weekend when they have live bands.
Children and dogs welcome
Ever wondered where the British classic Sticky Toffee Pudding originated? It was right here in the Lake District. These day’s it’s a family favourite in households all over the UK but you will be hard pressed to find a better sticky toffee pudding than the Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding which can be purchased from the Cartmel Village Shop and their adjacent cafe. This deliciously moist pudding, accompanied by a decadently rich sticky toffee sauce is the perfect after-dinner treat and it doesn’t stop there! Check out all the other delicious puddings and cakes in the Cartmel Village Shop not to mention their wonderful array of teas, coffees and our personal favourite hot chocolate!
Spend £20 in the Cartmel Village Shop and show your Lakelovers Recommends key fob to get a free Tea or Coffee in the Cafe.
Hiding within Unsworths Yard, the Mallard Tea shop is open every day and specialises in cakes and puddings which are all baked on the premises. Various light-bites are also offered including soups, sandwiches and jacket potatoes with an array of fillings. Popular with locals, visitors, cyclists, and walkers this friendly cafe is a must visit, especially on a sunny day when you can sit outside in the yard.
This isn’t exactly an eatery but we couldn’t avoid mentioning this fantastic cheese shop offering an amazing array of local cheeses which are a fantastic addition to any meal, picnic or snack. You can try any of the cheeses before you buy and the owners are hugely knowledgeable and can answer all your questions. There’s also an artisan bakery next door if you want to complete your picnic with some freshly baked bread.
