The Lake District is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures but also for its exceptional culinary scene. Home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, this picturesque region offers gastronomic experiences that are as memorable as its natural beauty. In this blog post, we explore five Michelin-star restaurants in the Lake District that stand out for their exquisite cuisine, innovative menus, and remarkable settings. These dining destinations promise a memorable journey for your taste buds and are only a quick drive away from our accommodation at Brackenthwaite Farm.
1. Heft, High Newton (20-minute drive)
When Cumbrian-born couple Kevin and Nicola Tickle opened Heft in the summer of 2021, it quickly garnered attention as one of the year’s most exciting culinary launches. Kevin, a seasoned chef with experience at L’Enclume, transformed the 17th-century coaching inn into a culinary hotspot. Named after a local breed of sheep, Heft revitalised its quiet village with playful and innovative dishes.🥘
The menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients like stone fruits from the Loxhams and rhubarb from the Tomlinsons, offers a fresh twist on British staples, such as thyme honey ham, fish dishes, and even carefully crafted meat-free meals. If you have room to spare at the end of a meal, remember to take a peek at the pudding menu with Belgian waffles, blueberry compotes, and scorched pear sweeteners. The eclectic wine list, reminiscent of trendy East London shops, perfectly complements the inventive cuisine, making Heft a must-visit for food enthusiasts!🍷
2. Rogan and Co, Cartmel (30-minute drive)
Among the more formal Michelin-starred restaurants, chef Simon Rogan (of L’Enclume fame) has introduced a refreshing take on the neighbourhood bistro with his new venture. Located near his flagship in Cartmel, this relaxed eatery maintains the star quality of Rogan’s brand while offering greater accessibility. The Scandinavian-inspired interiors complement a menu that celebrates Lake District ingredients with innovative dishes like whipped cod’s roe nori tartlets and miso-roasted cod with crunchy kohlrabi (a turnip-like vegetable). Despite its popularity, securing a reservation here is somewhat easier than you might imagine, making it a delightful yet approachable dining experience.
3. The Samling, Windermere (40-minute drive)
Nestled among the stunning landscapes of Lake Windermere and The Old Man of Coniston, The Samling not only boasts breathtaking views but also offers a culinary experience that showcases the best of local flavours. The true gem of this picturesque corner of Cumbria is undoubtedly the restaurant. Embracing the farm-to-fork ethos, The Samling places lakeside ingredients at the forefront, many sourced directly from their own greenhouse. Under the expert guidance of Head Chef Robby Jenks, the menu exudes classic elegance while celebrating the allure of familiarity. Dishes such as asparagus with golden yolks, tender monkfish infused with saffron, and succulent lamb accompanied by pea and mint delight the palate. At The Samling, culinary excellence meets unparalleled hospitality, offering a feast for the senses that lingers long after the last bite.
4. The Old Stamp House, Ambleside (50-minute drive)
Deep in the heart of an old house in Ambleside, which once served as William Wordsworth’s office, lies a charming Michelin-starred restaurant run by the Blackburn brothers. Their passion for Cumberland flavours, reimagined with a modern Cumbrian twist, shines through in every dish. Chef Ryan Blackburn, who began his culinary journey in his grandfather’s pub, crafts a menu inspired by local history and ingredients. Diners can expect delights such as Herwick hogget fat scrumpets (a blend of a scone and crumpet), potted bay shrimps, and coastal herbs with halibut, all complemented by the cosy, historically rich ambience.
So, why not treat your taste buds to something remarkable during your stay at Brackenthwaite? To find out more or to book your stay, get in touch or visit our website!
