Best Restaurants in Cumbria
Hungry in Cumbria? Explore top-rated restaurants with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best restaurants in Cumbria
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
29 restaurants
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Pub4.2★2,454 reviews
The Flying Pig Pub
The Flying Pig Pub is a beloved traditional Lakeland pub located on Rayrigg Road in Bowness-on-Windermere. Known for its hearty English fare, friendly atmosphere, and locally sourced seasonal ingredients, it offers a welcoming spot for both locals and visitors. With a moderate price range and a reputation for excellent pies and roasts, this pub combines rustic charm with attentive service in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Italian4.6★1,307 reviews
Dodds Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Ambleside, Dodds Restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere paired with expertly crafted Italian and modern European dishes. Known for its fresh, homemade meals and attentive service, Dodds is a favorite for both casual lunches and relaxed evening dining. With a moderate price range and a reputation for standout dishes like prawn specialties, it’s a culinary gem in the Lake District.
Daily 10:00–14:45, 17:00–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Modern British4.6★1,111 reviews
Porto Restaurant
Porto Restaurant in Bowness-on-Windermere offers a modern British dining experience with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Known for its warm atmosphere, attentive service, and creative dishes like scallops and fillet steak, Porto blends traditional flavors with contemporary twists. Located just minutes from Lake Windermere, it features indoor and heated outdoor seating, making it a versatile spot for lunch, dinner, or special occasions.
Daily 12:00–15:00, 17:00–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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British4.5★1,116 reviews
The Priest Hole Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Ambleside on Church Street, The Priest Hole Restaurant offers a charming blend of historic ambiance and hearty British cuisine. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes, this mid-range eatery delights with generous portions, including standout Sunday roasts, steak nights, and fish specials. The venue features a cozy interior with open fires, a dog-friendly outdoor terrace, and an upstairs function room, making it a welcoming spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
Mon–Sat 12:00–21:00 · Sun 12:00–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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English4.6★1,023 reviews
Lucy's on a plate
Nestled on Church Street in Ambleside, Lucy's On A Plate offers a vibrant English dining experience with a menu that blends local ingredients and global influences. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this moderately priced restaurant serves a variety of dishes including meat, fish, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Its quirky bistro decor and fresh daily menus make it a standout culinary spot in the Lake District.
Tue–Sun 17:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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English4.4★1,067 reviews
The Last Zebra
The Last Zebra is a vibrant gastropub in central Carlisle, blending English classics with global flavors like Asian-inspired dishes and hearty burgers. Known for its separate plant-based menu, extensive cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere, it offers satisfying portions at moderate prices. Open daily from 10:30 AM, it's ideal for brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends and family.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.5★1,008 reviews
Thin White Duke
Nestled in the heart of Carlisle, Thin White Duke is a vibrant restaurant and bar known for its inventive menu, warm atmosphere, and friendly staff. Offering a mix of contemporary dishes with local influences, this moderately priced venue delights visitors with unique flavors and a welcoming vibe, making it a must-visit for food lovers exploring Cumbria’s city center.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Inn4.4★983 reviews
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
Nestled in the scenic Barngates area near Ambleside, The Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery offers a quintessential Lake District experience with hearty, imaginative cuisine, a welcoming country pub atmosphere, and a renowned on-site brewery. Known for its warm, rustic charm, the inn combines comfortable accommodation with expertly brewed ales and a menu featuring plentiful vegetarian options, making it a beloved destination for food and drink enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Restaurant4.6★637 reviews
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
Nestled in the tranquil Lyth Valley near Kendal, The Punch Bowl Inn is a distinguished 17th-century country inn renowned for its superb cuisine, charming rustic ambiance, and comfortable boutique accommodation. Once a blacksmith’s forge, it now offers a refined dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, including the celebrated Lancashire cheese soufflé, alongside cozy rooms with countryside views. This elegant yet relaxed inn blends historic character with modern comforts, making it a cherished destination for food lovers and travelers seeking authentic Lake District hospitality.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Restaurant4.7★590 reviews
Horse and Farrier
A celebrated gastropub nestled in the picturesque village of Dacre, just 2.5 miles from Ullswater lake in the Lake District. Known for exceptional seasonal cuisine prepared with meticulous attention to detail, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and solo diners alike. The pub features a charming bar area, outdoor seating, and a carefully curated selection of wines and local beers. Dogs are warmly welcomed in designated areas.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
The Clickham Inn
The Clickham Inn, located on the B5288 near Penrith, is a charming restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and Mediterranean-inspired tapas. This renovated Victorian-era inn offers a relaxed yet stylish setting with a focus on authentic Greek and Spanish dishes, including a highly praised chicken and ham pie. Friendly staff, a dog-friendly policy, and a vibrant ambience make it a popular dining spot on the edge of the Lake District.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Jumble Room
The Jumble Room is a vibrant, bohemian-style restaurant located in Grasmere, Ambleside, known for its creative international cuisine blending local produce with bold global flavors. Open Thursday to Saturday evenings, it offers a lively yet intimate atmosphere where adventurous dishes like miso-caramel sirloin and Lebanese lamb stew delight food lovers. This mid-range eatery is celebrated for its innovative menu, colorful setting, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit for discerning diners in the Lake District.
Thu–Sat 17:30–21:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
Nestled in the historic cellars of an old Ambleside house once linked to William Wordsworth, The Old Stamp House Restaurant offers a refined modern British dining experience. Celebrated for its ‘A Journey Around Cumbria’ tasting menu, it showcases the region’s rich food heritage with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, skillfully crafted into bold and delicate dishes. This Michelin-starred venue blends heritage, innovation, and warm hospitality in a cozy, atmospheric setting in the heart of the Lake District.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
David's Restaurant
David's Restaurant in Carlisle offers an elegant fine dining experience specializing in British and European cuisine. Housed in a charming Victorian townhouse, it blends quality, locally sourced ingredients with expert culinary techniques. The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make it a standout destination for food lovers seeking sophisticated flavors in a relaxed setting.
Tue–Sat 12:00–13:30, 18:00–23:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Old Bank
The Old Bank is a highly regarded gastropub located in a beautifully restored Grade II listed former bank building in Carlisle’s historic quarter. It offers a warm, quirky atmosphere with an eclectic menu of British classics and innovative dishes, alongside a notable cocktail selection. Known for attentive service and generous portions, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors seeking quality dining in a unique setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Four & Twenty
Four & Twenty is a casual yet refined bistro located at 42 King Street, Penrith. It offers a menu inspired by seasonal British cooking with international influences, using fresh local produce. The restaurant features a carefully curated wine list and inventive cocktails, providing a welcoming atmosphere for both family dining and fine casual meals. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, it is known for its flavourful, unfussy dishes and attentive service.
Tue–Sat 12:00–14:00, 18:30–20:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
1863 Restaurant with Rooms
Situated in the heart of Pooley Bridge, 1863 Restaurant with Rooms offers an exquisite blend of modern British cuisine and charming boutique accommodation. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1863, this establishment is renowned for its Michelin-level dining, cozy individually decorated rooms, and warm, personal hospitality. Guests enjoy a serene village setting close to Ullswater Lake, with thoughtfully prepared breakfasts and a convivial atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
In The Meantime
In The Meantime is a vibrant restaurant and cocktail bar located on Devonshire Street in Carlisle. Known for its modern British cuisine with inventive vegan and gluten-free options, it offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The menu features standout dishes like the Korean Chicken Burger and salt and pepper chips, complemented by a selection of cocktails. Friendly and attentive staff enhance the inclusive dining experience, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Tue–Fri 11:30–22:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Cottage In The Wood
Nestled atop Magic Hill in Whinlatter Forest near Keswick, The Cottage In The Wood is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant with intimate rooms. Renowned for its innovative tasting menus crafted by Chef Jack Bond, it offers a tranquil woodland setting with stunning views of the Skiddaw mountain range. Guests enjoy a warm, unpretentious atmosphere, exceptional food and wine pairings, and cozy accommodations that blend rustic charm with modern comfort.
Wed–Sat 12:00–23:00Price level $$$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
The Royal Oak Inn
Nestled in the tranquil village of Curthwaite near Wigton, The Royal Oak Inn is a beloved gastropub offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere, traditional English fare, and a cozy setting. Known for its fabulous food and great service, this moderate-priced pub is a perfect stop for locals and travelers seeking authentic pub culture in the scenic Cumbrian countryside.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Pentonbridge Inn
Nestled near Carlisle in the scenic Cumbrian countryside, Pentonbridge Inn is an 18th-century inn transformed into a Michelin-starred restaurant with nine luxurious rooms. Celebrated for its exquisite tasting menus showcasing local produce, the inn offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere with stunning rural views, a welcoming bar, and dog-friendly accommodations, making it a perfect stop for food lovers and travelers seeking comfort and culinary excellence.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Conservatory Restaurant at The Melbreak Hotel
The Conservatory Restaurant at The Melbreak Hotel in Workington offers a refined Modern European dining experience with a selective menu for lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and Sunday lunches. Set within the charming Melbreak Hotel, it provides a warm, inviting atmosphere complemented by attentive service and seasonal special events such as tapas nights. Its location near the Lake District and Cumbrian coast makes it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
Mon–Thu 11:30–14:00, 17:00–21:00 · Fri–Sun 11:30–21:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Fini’s. The Restaurant at Willowbeck Lodge
Fini’s Kitchen, nestled within the tranquil Willowbeck Lodge near Carlisle, offers a refined dining experience with freshly prepared dishes crafted by talented chefs. Known for its charming countryside setting, the restaurant serves a thoughtfully curated menu blending local flavors with contemporary touches, making it a delightful destination for food lovers seeking quality and ambiance in Cumbria.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Henrock
Henrock is a refined restaurant located within the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel in Windermere, offering modern cuisine with stunning garden views. Known for its Michelin-starred quality dishes, Henrock serves breakfast and dinner in an elegant yet relaxed setting, complementing the intimate Edwardian country house atmosphere of the hotel. Guests enjoy attentive service, a varied menu, and a peaceful dining experience near Lake Windermere.
Wed–Sat 18:00–21:00 · Sun 12:00–14:00, 18:00–21:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Greenhouse Restaurant
The Greenhouse Restaurant, nestled within the Castle Green Hotel in Kendal, offers a contemporary dining experience featuring modern British cuisine. With an open kitchen design and panoramic views of Kendal Castle and the surrounding gardens, it combines culinary excellence with a scenic setting. Open daily for lunch and dinner, it is renowned for its friendly service, diverse menu, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a highlight for visitors exploring the Lake District region.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Lounge on the Green
Tucked away on The Green in Houghton, Lounge on the Green is a contemporary restaurant known for its inventive, locally inspired dishes and relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Open for lunch and dinner on select days, it offers a menu that highlights seasonal produce with modern flair. The intimate dining room and attentive service make it a standout choice for a memorable meal near Carlisle.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Hidden River Cafe
Hidden River Cafe in Longtown, Carlisle, is a welcoming, family- and dog-friendly restaurant offering high-quality, locally sourced dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Nestled near the River Lyne with scenic woodland walks nearby, it combines rustic charm with modern dining, perfect for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Solway Lounge & Garrison Bistro
Solway Lounge & Garrison Bistro is a welcoming restaurant and pub located at Bowness House Farm in Bowness-on-Solway near Wigton. Known for its bright, modern interior and homely atmosphere, it offers a diverse menu featuring locally sourced, freshly cooked dishes including standout fish and chips and vegetarian options. Open daily with friendly service, it is a favored spot for both casual meals and relaxed drinks in a rural Cumbrian setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Hired Lad Restaurant
The Hired Lad Restaurant is a cozy café and restaurant located in the Agricultural Hall on Skirsgill Lane, Penrith. Known for its warm atmosphere and attentive service, it offers a selection of British and café-style dishes in a relaxed setting. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, it serves as a welcoming spot for locals and visitors seeking hearty meals and a friendly environment in the heart of Cumbria.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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