The Old Stamp House Restaurant: A Culinary Journey Through Cumbria
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
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.
A brief summary to The Old Stamp House Restaurant
- Old Stamp House, The, Church St, Ambleside, LA22 0BU, GB
- +441539432775
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book well in advance, especially for the tasting menu, as seating is limited and highly sought after.
- Try the ‘A Journey Around Cumbria’ tasting menu to fully appreciate the regional specialties and seasonal ingredients.
- Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions in advance; the kitchen offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
- Pair your meal with wines from their carefully curated list, selected to complement the flavors of the dishes.
- Arrive with an appetite and an open mind to enjoy the creative and story-rich dishes inspired by Cumbria’s landscape and history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Old Stamp House Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Old Stamp House Restaurant
A Historic Setting Steeped in Literary Legacy
The Old Stamp House Restaurant is uniquely housed in the cellars of a historic building on Church Street, Ambleside, where the famed poet William Wordsworth once worked as the Distributor of Stamps for Westmorland. This evocative setting connects diners with the cultural and historical fabric of the Lake District, enriching the dining experience with a sense of place and time. The restaurant's owners, the Blackburn brothers, have preserved this heritage while transforming the space into an intimate fine dining venue that marries tradition with contemporary culinary artistry.A Celebration of Cumbrian Flavours and Ingredients
At the heart of The Old Stamp House’s culinary philosophy is a deep respect for Cumbria’s diverse and rich larder. The restaurant’s signature tasting menu, ‘A Journey Around Cumbria,’ highlights local produce ranging from Herdwick lamb and Cartmel venison to Morecambe Bay seafood and ancient woodland mushrooms. Each dish is thoughtfully composed to balance bold and delicate flavours, often telling stories that weave together history, personal anecdotes, and regional food traditions. This commitment to locality and seasonality ensures a fresh, authentic taste of the Lake District’s unique terroir.Innovative Cuisine with a Personal Touch
The kitchen, led by Ryan Blackburn, crafts dishes that are both innovative and respectful of tradition. Highlights include delicacies such as duck liver parfait with beetroot meringue and Cumberland sauce, Morecambe Bay shrimps with spiced mead velouté, and a standout Cartmel venison with truffle sauce. The menu evolves seasonally, reflecting the changing availability of ingredients and the creative impulses of the chefs. The service, overseen by Craig Blackburn, complements the food with attentive hospitality and a carefully curated wine list designed to enhance the flavours on the plate.An Intimate Ambience and Refined Experience
The restaurant’s interior exudes warmth and charm, with cozy cellar rooms that create an intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated night out. The blend of historic architecture and modern design elements adds to the unique character of the space. Guests can enjoy a full bar and table service, with options catering to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, ensuring an inclusive dining experience.Wine Selection and Culinary Pairings
The Old Stamp House’s wine list is a thoughtfully assembled collection that complements the tasting menus. Selected by the Blackburn brothers in collaboration with their wine merchant, it features diverse varietals and blends from acclaimed wine regions worldwide. This eclectic range is chosen to enhance the regional dishes, offering guests a harmonious pairing that elevates the meal. The wine list balances quality with value, reflecting the restaurant’s ethos of excellence and accessibility.Legacy, Innovation, and Regional Pride
The Old Stamp House stands as a beacon of Cumbrian culinary heritage, blending the past and present with a passion for local food culture. Its Michelin star accolade attests to the high standard of cooking and service. Beyond the food, the restaurant embodies a story of place, people, and tradition, inviting diners to experience the Lake District not just through its landscapes but through its rich and evolving culinary narrative.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bowder Stone
17.1 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Bowder Stone in the Lake District, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
National Trust - Fell Foot
17.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Honister Slate Mine
17.7 km
Explore the thrilling adventures at Honister Slate Mine, where outdoor activities meet rich slate mining heritage in the stunning Lake District.
Lodore Falls
18.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.
Surprise View
18.2 km
Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ashness Bridge
18.6 km
Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.
Lake District National Park Authority
19.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.
Eskdale Mill
20.2 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Sizergh
20.5 km
Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
20.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
20.8 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
21.0 km
Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
Friars Crag
21.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.
Keswick Methodist Church
21.9 km
Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.
Keswick War Memorial
21.9 km
A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.
Unmissable attractions to see
RockShop
0.2 km
Discover gemstones, fossils, and dinosaur-themed fun at RockShop Ambleside, a family-friendly indoor treasure trove in the Lake District.
White Platts Recreation Ground
0.2 km
A vibrant central park in Ambleside offering mini golf, tennis, bowling, and family-friendly play areas amid scenic Lake District surroundings.
The Bridge House
0.3 km
A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.
Golden Rule
0.3 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at The Golden Rule in Ambleside, where local ales and hearty pub fare meet scenic beauty.
Armitt Library & Museum Centre
0.4 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Ambleside and the Lake District at The Armitt, a unique museum, gallery, and library founded in 1912.
Rothay Park
0.4 km
A serene and scenic green space in Ambleside’s heart, perfect for family outings, riverside walks, and peaceful Lake District escapes.
Ambleside Roman Fort
1.0 km
Discover the evocative stone remains of Ambleside Roman Fort, a lakeside sentinel guarding ancient routes in the heart of the Lake District.
Borrans Park
1.1 km
Discover tranquil lakeside green space with stunning views and explore the ancient Roman fort ruins that reveal Ambleside’s rich heritage.
National Trust - Stagshaw Gardens
1.6 km
Discover the tranquil woodland beauty of Stagshaw Gardens, where vibrant spring blooms meet stunning views over Windermere.
Stepping Stones
1.6 km
A tranquil riverside retreat under Loughrigg near Ambleside, blending scenic beauty with cozy comfort in the heart of the Lake District.
Rydal Mount and Gardens
2.4 km
Explore William Wordsworth’s cherished home and gardens, where poetry, nature, and history intertwine amidst stunning Lake District views.
Rydal Cave
2.6 km
Explore the atmospheric man-made Rydal Cave, a historic slate quarry nestled beside tranquil Rydal Water in the scenic English Lake District.
National Trust - Wray
3.4 km
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival Wray Castle grounds and lakeside trails on Windermere’s west shore, a serene Lake District retreat.
Brockhole on Windermere
3.6 km
Explore 30 acres of lakeside gardens, thrilling activities, and family fun at Brockhole, the Lake District’s flagship visitor centre on Windermere.
Zip World Windermere
3.6 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking Lake District views at Zip World Windermere, the ultimate outdoor family activity hub.
Essential places to dine
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
0.0 km
Historic 16th-century setting serving hearty British and Cumbrian dishes with warm hospitality in the heart of Ambleside.
Lucy's on a plate
0.0 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lake Road Kitchen
0.1 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Dodds Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Samling Hotel
2.0 km
Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Blue Smoke on the Bay
2.5 km
Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.
Windermere Restaurant (The W)
2.5 km
Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.
The Gaddum
3.6 km
Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
4.0 km
A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.
The Jumble Room
5.1 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
5.1 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
6.8 km
A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.
The Tilly Bar and Kitchen
6.9 km
Casual British dining and drinks in the heart of Windermere village, featuring fresh homemade dishes and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Hooked Seafood
7.0 km
Fresh, seasonal seafood served with warmth and elegance in the heart of Windermere’s charming Ellerthwaite Square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
6.8 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
7.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
7.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
7.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
7.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
LAKELAND Leather
7.9 km
Discover handcrafted leather elegance and timeless style at Lakeland Leather in Bowness-on-Windermere, where tradition meets the Lake District spirit.
Tesco Express
7.9 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Lonsdale Galleries
7.9 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in a spacious, welcoming gallery at the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Mountain Warehouse
7.9 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Bowness, offering quality gear for all your Lake District adventures.
Love the Lakes Bowness
7.9 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating the spirit and beauty of England's Lake District.
Lakeland Distribution Centre
17.1 km
Explore the Lakeland Distribution Centre for an unparalleled selection of kitchen supplies and home goods in the heart of Kendal.
Sainsbury's
17.6 km
Your convenient and comprehensive supermarket destination in Kendal, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and friendly service daily.
The Antiques Emporium
17.6 km
Explore a remarkable collection of antiques and collectibles at The Antiques Emporium in Kendal, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and treasure hunters alike.
Elephant Yard Shopping
17.9 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
18.0 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Vault
0.0 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
0.1 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Talbot Bar
3.4 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
3.8 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
4.6 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
Wainwrights' Inn
5.5 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Windermere Speakeasy
6.7 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
6.8 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
6.8 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
6.8 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.
Hole in t' Wall
7.8 km
Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Albert
7.9 km
A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
Lago
7.9 km
Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.
The Easy Breeze
7.9 km
A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Fizzy Tarté
7.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
7.1 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
8.1 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
29.2 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
secret bridge
38.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
39.2 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
39.2 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
Secret Carlisle
51.2 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
51.4 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Hawes Club
51.7 km
Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.
Carlisle R A O B Club
51.7 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
51.8 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Settle Working Mens Club
60.1 km
Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.
The George Inn
60.7 km
Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
G & P Events and Mobile Bars
67.2 km
Discover a vibrant bar and events venue in Kettlewell, Yorkshire, perfect for gatherings amidst stunning Dales scenery.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
